Modern Vespa

Long time modern vespa reader.
Figured I would get your opinions. I'm an electrician so wiring or batteries are home to me. I restored a classic electric car a number of years back and it has had zero issues since. My 52 allstate runs good but I spend a lot of time adjusting and keep it running or getting me home. I am nervous it will not get me home most times I take it out. I have an electronic ignition from SIP I have not installed and do not know if that would clear up my issues. My 58 is reliable and if I could get this scooter to that level I would be thrilled. I don't know if this is possible with the original engine design or should I display the engine and put an electric motor in it for rideability? The engine is a 32 number.
As much as I love the scooter it doesn't get used much and I am unsure where to go from here. What are your thoughts....
Thanks for all the input and knowledge I have received over the years on here.

Electric? i think you're going to give Mr. Gick a heart attack...and then cause him to roll over in his grave...then wake him back up from the grave so that he can haunt you.

He is one who's opinion I would highly value.
I am not in an area that I have alot of knowledge.
Your comment made me laugh though.

SP,

What are your, early 1-port engine, issues? Let's talk through this before you do something blasphemous.

When hot the engine is hard to start. It likes to backfire from time to time. I adjusted the points and it did well for about 10 rides about 10 miles each. Now it is back to giving trouble with starting and backfiring. I assume it is a timing or points issue. I have a SIP electronic ignition new in box, I just am not sure how to install it properly. The engine was built from a great shop so it is not that. It is a dialing it in issue.
My main concern is this year I wanted to ride but the scooter was alot of a hassle to keep going that I did not use it nearly what I wanted. I would love to get it to a point that I'm not always wondering if it going to break down and push it home. Cost is not an issue, reliability is my concern. Speed also is not something I am looking to get more of.

Your issue is ignition.

You can install the new ignition and kiss your ignition issues away with new, modern equipment. Once installed, no need to adjust anything!

I'll 2nd Gick's analysis. Sounds points/ignition. snap on them updated bits and cruise with confidence.

I wouldn't hesitate twice on that.

These engines are quite slow so I assume very low compression; does this equate to low stress and longevity? If you are to ride often do things wear out or not so much in these things.
Since this is my first real old vespa I am not sure what to expect for rebuilds or maintenance. Thanks for insight.

The weakest link has got to be the primary with 12 of the smallest springs out of any primary Vespa made.

The pre-1954 engines I build come with an electric ignition and high compression head. These two items absolutely help out in rideabilty and reliability.

If you really want to get to Gick suggest cutting the frame with a sawzall and installing a Stella 4T or a Buddy Twist-n-go engine.

But think of the gas economy!

H

Twist-n-NO

I will have to end up doing this upgrade. Have to figure out how to go about it. Never did a timing upgrade so a little apprehensive to try it with no guidance. Could also send the engine out.
Sent you a PM earlier with my contact.
Thanks