Modern Vespa

I'm in the process of a restoration of a very low mileage 2008 GTS250 that has been sitting idle for about 7 years. I've done all the basic stuff to get it running again. It has good spark, fresh fluids and battery. Turns over/cranks but won't start. I can hear the fuel pump click on when I turn the key, but when I pull the fuel line off the injector it is dry. I tried a quick test (fuel line off and key in ON position, and nothing is coming out. Can I assume that I need to replace the fuel pump at this stage? If it was a cheap part I would just get one and give it a try, but at $270 I don't want to waste money if I can help it.....

Your 2008 GTS may be among the fuel pump recall scooters. You should check with a nearby dealer to see if it's serial number is covered - and that the pump has not yet been replaced. If so, Piaggio may owe you a new pump.

Unfortunately it's not part of the recall. I already called and checked with the VIN. I have no problem buying a replacement if that's what the problem is, just wanted to see if anyone can offer any insight on whether the symptoms mine has are a good indicator of fuel pump issue.....

it sounds like it, but pull the injector and see if you can blow some brake clean or compressed air thru it to ensure it's not clogged up.

but I'm guessing it's a fuel pump.

I'll give that a try. Appreciate it.... I assume that it's prudent to get the OEM fuel pump rather than using a generic pump? I've seen a few posts where people have bought a separate pump, but I'm worried that the built-in filter and regulator may also be gummed up from years of sitting in bad fuel.....

strongly advise to buy the complete unit for ease of install and known quality.

Much appreciated greasy125....

A fuel pump is less than $20.

Add a zero if you want to replace the entire assembly.

Swapping out just the pump is straightforward once you have the tank dropped.

Source?

https://www.amazon.com/Caltric-INTANK-PIAGGIO-BEVERLY-2006-2012/dp/B00KFI1KCY/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=caltric+vespa+fuel+pump&qid=1624810365&sr=8-1

Just about any 30mm pump will do as long as it doesn't suck up too many amps.

I've installed three of these- two on GTS250 and one on a Vino. fit and finish was poor. both 250 pumps failed within a month. no warranty. the vino one is still going strong, but that bike doesn't see regular use.

YMMV

Appreciate the feedback Gents!

As much as it pains me to spend the money on the over-priced OEM pump, I really can't see myself buying a $20 replacement part for something that is a PIA to install, with the potential for short term failure. As the wife is going to riding this 50% of the time, the last thing I want is her getting stranded somewhere because I was too cheap to buy the proper part.