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MAD wrote:
Ah, I see - How difficult is it to replace the clutch plates and springs? Is there an all inclusive kit available for the 50 special?
Not too hard.

But you need to take off the rear wheel (being able to torque it down properly when reinstalling) and you need a clutch compressor/remover tool…

Don't think there's a kit per se, but you'll need a new gasket for the clutch cover.

If you're committed, I'd take things apart to investigate as you might see things that need attention when you remove the clutch cover such as worn primary teeth, worn primary basket etc…

Also brake plate gasket and probably the oil seal…
OP
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1979 Vespa 50cc Special
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Many thanks for the info - Is there a work-around for the clutch compressor tool? or will I need to buy one? where might that be available?
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MAD wrote:
Many thanks for the info - Is there a work-around for the clutch compressor tool? or will I need to buy one? where might that be available?
I don't think there's too much of a work around. I've seen people create their own tools, but basically looks like the one you can purchase…

https://www.scooterhelp.com/tips/engine/clutch.sf.vespa.html

This link will be most useful for you. But you'll be removing the clutch, first then compressing it to free the plates…

I brought the fabbri tool from SIP which helps with installing the newer style clutches…

https://www.sip-scootershop.com/en/product/puller-combination-fabbri-racing-clutch_93313000
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MAD wrote:
Many thanks for the info - Is there a work-around for the clutch compressor tool? or will I need to buy one? where might that be available?
It's only 16 bucks.
https://www.scooterwest.com/vintage-tool-clutch-puller-small-frame-toolcp.html

Four pole key switch with two keys, if you haven't sorted your broken key. Take a look at yours to confirm and maybe email them as well:
https://www.scooterwest.com/ignition-switch-4-pole-1977-1979-p125x-p200e-160743.html

In the In officina con Edo series he goes over the process and inspection after removal in great detail here (also a history lesson):

&list=PLauclWHvbpSbSEDSisncAAKrxAz6_n4_f&index=30
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*For a workaround compressor tool, just get a 5/16" bolt, nut, and a few fender washers (as in the video).
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Molto Verboso
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My 1st Vespa was a primavera in 1985. I ordered a malossi clutch spring from Midland Scooter Centre. Laid the scooter on it's side. My dad used the handle side of a spade shovel to compress the clutch and was able to make the swap with a rudimentary approach.
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Johnny Two Tone
'15 GTS300, '86 PX125EFL, '66 VBB, '01 ET4
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hibbert wrote:
My 1st Vespa was a primavera in 1985. I ordered a malossi clutch spring from Midland Scooter Centre. Laid the scooter on it's side. My dad used the handle side of a spade shovel to compress the clutch and was able to make the swap with a rudimentary approach.
That spring is a monster, getting it back together would have sucked more than getting it apart ROFL emoticon
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Molto Verboso
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I have also used a similar approach with the engine out and a drill press to compress the clutch engine mostly assembled.
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'64 Motovespa 150S (177) , '65 VBB, '66 Allstate SF, '66 180SS, '58 LD 125 (150)
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hibbert wrote:
I have also used a similar approach with the engine out and a drill press to compress the clutch engine mostly assembled.
I have used the drill press a number of times. The trick is the run the table up to compress instead of pulling the quill down.
On another note... do you know that you can't actually bite down ?
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Yeah compressing the clutch isn't the biggest challenge, a long bolt, washers and nuts will work.

The challenge is removing the clutch, I'm assuming you haven't (and won't be…) removing the engine from the frame.
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Correct, at least I hope to not have to remove the engine.
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Unless you drop a woodruff key (or some other bits and bobs) into the bowels as you are replacing the clutch you will not have to remove the engine.
⬆️    About 1 month elapsed    ⬇️
OP
@mad avatar
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Good day all! With your help I have the Vespa 50 up and running! The next issue I hope to sort out is the tail light. The tail running light blows out whenever I get the engine to a hi rpm. At idle and low speeds, it works, it's steady and bright - but then blows out if I rev the engine. The brake light is working fine. I'm running Sylvania bulb #1154 bulbs/lamps. I am not running a battery at this time. Is this a short? or an artifact of no battery? thoughts?
Many thanks for your help.
Cheers
M. Daleo
Vespa 50 Special with Sam Houston
Vespa 50 Special with Sam Houston
@steely_dan avatar
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Hooked
Lambretta GPs Lambretta S1s, Vespa Gl, Vespa P200, Serveta 150
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@steely_dan avatar
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Looks great, keep going! Does look like your front wheel is on backwards though. The deep side of the rim goes towards the hub.
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Molto Verboso
'13 LML Star 200, '81 50 Special, '81 P 150 X, '87 PK 50 Nuova, '84 PK 50 S
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Steely Dan wrote:
Looks great, keep going! Does look like your front wheel is on backwards though. The deep side of the rim goes towards the hub.
There also a 3.50 tyre. So backward rim mounting is help that big tyre don't rub on fork/shock. Not a good idea.
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Here it is - I got the message.
Many thanks!
MAD
Forum member supplied image with no explanatory text
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Hooked
Lambretta GPs Lambretta S1s, Vespa Gl, Vespa P200, Serveta 150
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Huzzah! looks great, love that bike please never take that sticker off that battery door. That bike is just awesome.

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