Modern Vespa

I changed the oil on my 2007 GT 200 for the first time today. I discovered that it did not have the strainer when I took the drain plug out. The mechanic who changed oil for me last time must have left it out.
I did not have a spare and just plugged it up and filled w new oil.

How critical is the strainer? Could I safely run the scoot until the next oil change when I put in a strainer?

Your advice is appreciated.
-Jack

No expert but I don't see a lot of harm. I rarely see any bits in my screens when changing oil. Not advisable, of course, but not likely courting disaster, either.

Considering that you also have an oil filter, and that as you mentioned, you have already used the scooter without, I wouldn't worry too much about the plastic strainer... Just buy one, (if your model did came with one) and put it back on your next oil change..

easy order a strainer, when it comes in lay the scooter on its side and then pull the drain plug , install the strainer and plug and your good to go. don't forget to replace the oring om the drain plug if you already haven't.

Thanks all for your thoughts!

This.

Or just call a loss on the quart and refill.

The strainer is there for a reason.

But more importantly, check the work done previously. If they forgot the strainer, what else did they overlook?

-g

Definitely replace the strainer. It may affect your oil pressure a little without one. Not sure by how much. The Burgman 400 has a strainer too and if this is missing it drops it's oil pressure as I measured it. However, the Burgmans only run their oil pressure at 16-18psi. This is because they use roller and needle roller bearings on the main engine components and these don't require high oil pressure, unlike the babbit type of shell bearings we have in our Vespas. Our Vespas run at 40psi on average irc.