Modern Vespa

I just finished replacing the cables on my LML 2T (Stella). All went OK thanks to a lot of searching on these forums.

I tried to start it for the first time and it took a load of kicks (normally it starts on 1-2 kicks). Finally got it started but it immediately revved like crazy, to the extent that switching off the ignition key wouldn't stop it running. I flipped the fuel off and it died after a few seconds (note to self: pull the HT cable next time!).

On checking the carb slide, it's around a third open when the throttle is completely closed. It seems to me that the new cable is maybe a quarter inch too short. I've checked that the outer is seated correctly at both and carb entry and the nylon thing under the headset.

Brand new complete cable purchased as part of set from SIP:
https://www.sip-scootershop.com/en/product/cable-kit-sip-performance-for-vespa-px80-200-e-lusso_94180900

Any ideas? I really don't want to start threading a whole new cable if at all possible.

If you have enough length on the outer housing could you cut a short section off the end to make up the difference you need in cable length?

I was thinking the same, but how would I cut the outer without also cutting through the inner cable? I've got a nice Park Tools cutter that would make a nice clean cut, but it'll go through the inner also.

That's the tricky part. I'd try carefully cutting with a dremel with a disc. Lengthwise then around and peel it off. Maybe not cut all the way through and give it a little pry with a screwdriver.

Lightbulb moment - all I need to do is get the outer a fraction closer to the carb box. I just removed the locknut from the adjuster and it seems to have given me enough to play with. Of course, if the cable stretches and I need to wind the adjuster out I might run into problems keeping it in place but for now it seems like it might work. What do you think?

Totally worth a try. Blue locktite will help.

Had the same issue with shifter cables bought as a complete set. Cable inners too short compared to the outers. I figured out that the inners are shorter than the ones I typically get when I buy inners separately. The outers could be cut shorter, but I ordered new inners instead.

Cutting the outer would be the quickest for you if the you have some extra to play with. Just go slow with a dremel…maybe score it deep until you can snap it off. Or you could ditch the adjuster until the cable stretches. The adjuster on the throttle cable is the one I have never had to use.

use a universal throttle cable and a cable nipple.


https://www.sip-scootershop.com/en/product/cable-throttle-sip-performance-for-vespa-all-models_94180132?q=throttle%20cable

https://www.sip-scootershop.com/en/product/cable-nipple-throttle-gear-cable-top-sip-tonne_94230000

Or you could try one of these.
I don't remember why I have one but I do!
Search for "small tubing cutter" at Amazon.

Removing the lock nut seems to have done the trick. I've never had to wind it out before, so hopefully it won't stretch. If it does, there's always Loctite.

I'll be playing around with jetting in the coming days - fingers crossed it doesn't affect the idle speed as the adjuster screw is already all the way out. A new cable with solderless nipple for the headset end is already on the way just in case.

Thanks for all your suggestions!