Modern Vespa

Hi all,

Considering how to remove the battery and regulator in a GS160.

Was thinking of using a VBB ignition coil on the stator, rewiring the igntion switch slightly. Would like to keep it 6v.

Is there a documented method or best approach? Or has anybody done this and can advise on the simplest way to do it.

Thanks!

I'm pretty sure it can be sussed out.

I think the easier and best approach is just to pull the stator and replace with an AC, non battery stator instead of coil surgery. Thus keeping the original stator, well… original. Would probably need another cdi and some remapping of the wire harness… but can be done for sure.

Set the original parts aside for safe keeping and make the bike a more reliable runner.

Thanks. Good points. Are all stators interchangeable?

This one for example that would suit a VBB?

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/356529865045?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=kxnd7jozs4w&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=6DGDUYTKSPS&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY

Sadly, no... they are not.

Could probably be sussed out...but...
While it's not cheap. Vape would be ideal... the price of reliability while steep can be worth it.

Something like this is where I'd go.

https://www.sip-scootershop.com/en/product/ignition-sip-performance-by-vape-sport-by-ygros-12v-dc-for-vespa-160-gs-0036098-180-ss_523501SD?usrc=vape

Thanks but definitely not. Basic parts can deliver a spark, don't need a 12v kit.

You can run a VBB coils on your GS160 and many other vintage Vespas. Buy the VBB stator and swap the coils. They will bolt right on the original plate without modification. They will work fine with the stock original GS160 flywheel.

I have done it on US spec. GS160's and GS150's.

I would recommend a P125 external coil to go with it and like you said the harness and switches will all have to be swapped to matching VBB (non battery) parts.

I love the simple old school points system. If you take the time to get it set up with good working parts and dialed in it is very simple and reliable. Trust me on this. The world functioned quite well on points for decades. Sadly, somewhere along the way people lost the skills needed to maintain points systems and now most people think they need electronic. It's not true.

Plus, no battery needed! Bonus!