Modern Vespa

So just getting ready to close up the engine on the GL, I've never done a older style 150 engine before so just asking how to close the cases as the crank/bearings are all interference fit. Clutch side currently has the crank mounted.

I guess it is the same style as a VNB engine, you have to heat the half quite well and then close.

I've used an electric cooking hot plate to heat the half, making sure to protect the seal from too much heat using aluminium foil as a barrier. I put a paper box on the half to make sure the heat is uniform.

Spit on the case, when bubbling, it is ready (that is how real men do )

Leave the kick arm on the case, easier to manipulate and you might need to wiggle it when assembling both halves.

Make SURE the alignment pin is absolutely clean, as the hole it goes into


Wear cooking gloves !

Yeah. It is a pain...

Took me like 7 tries to get the darn Bajaj cases shut. They have the same ball bearing setup as GL.

Freezer and propane torch are your friends with this engine type.

Oh okay!! Sounds a bit harder than the PX engine.. I do have a spare built 232, maybe I just slot that in, haha!!

Just came across this video, explains it all very well... I think I may have ruined the clutch side crank seal though. crank is a bit tight.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=YV982aFlywA&t=0s&t=278

I've already put the FW side bearing into the cases, do you think I can install it as is or you think I'll need to pull it out and install it onto the crankshaft?

Knowing the pain of closing the cases, I might just take some fine sanding paper and work the crankshaft until it is slip-fit on the bearing. It's a finicky job but makes assembly a breeze.

I know this engine will be replaced by the 232 that I have here but I just want to run the 177 to see how peppy it is, as I said, I've never done a small block build, let alone an older small block. Also, it'll be good to have the original engine with it and in running order.

I did the same and it went ok

I made a slug to heat up the inside of the bearing. I get it white hot not orange with my welding torch. I lay the slug on the bearing till it reads about 225 degrees f with my instant read thermometer. The crank slides right on it.

I've used my crank puller on the flywheel side. It puts a little lateral stress on the bearing, but I have motors I did that to which are going strong after 5+ years of hard use. It also helps hold the case half in place while fighting with the rest of the alignment challenges.

Awesome!! Some good tips here guys, thank you. I get my kick start bearing today hopefully, need to pull out the crank again and see if I've ruined the clutch side seal then hope fully case closed!! I'll keep you posted.

Stuarttiainen

I'm going to buy you a wire brush for your birthday.

The box of rags is on me

You can't tell me this doesn't look good...

So I got it all up and running today, cases closed pretty easy actually, got it started but there's something not right with the clutch... I really couldn't be bothered trying to suss it out, pull engine out, probably split cases again, so the 232 came out of the PX and got slotted into the GL. Had a late night bolting everything up, swapping out cables, but she's in and done. converted to a T5 rear brake cable too while I was at it. Should change that kickstart lever too.

I'll get the 150 sorted and going but not now... now to ride.

PS that driveshaft caged bearing was a pain to fit!!