Modern Vespa

Last Monday I hit a big pothole. you can read about it here

Rather complete loss of power

In the last week I have followed the advice I have received and...

Checked the electrical connections, plugs etc.
Taken my super-clean carb off about six times
Re-seated my new exhaust, this time with a gasket (no leaks, exhaust studs fine)
Changed the air filter and spark plug for good measure.
Made sure the rear wheel is firm and true

(I haven't re-jetted, though. Partly because I was categorically told the exhaust was a direct swap and partly because I'm not sure what it involves!)

Today it started for the first time in a week (yesssss) and is still not pulling properly (nooooooooo).

In fact it sounds like there's a dry leaf caught in the engine. Or a raspy-voiced old man croaking in there. Or the death-rattle of a dying 48cc engine.

Whatever it is, even with a new exhaust on, it sounds wrong. I've hopefully attached an audio file of it, it's not a great recording but it might help (open in Quicktime, I'm on a mac).

So, my question is the usual - anyone else had this, any ideas?

It's a well-used scoot (12,000 miles). Might it be a clutch thing?

Thanks in advance, I really appreciate the MV community spirit

Call a Priest, the pothole demons possessed your Scoot!

You need to get your scooter exorcised!!!


Got a lot of that going on here in the Pothole Capital of the World....
Grand Pothole Rapids, Michigan.......

On the right side of your engine there is the cooling fan over the magneto assembly. The cover has soft foam insulation to cut down on noise. Remover the black plastic shroud that surrounds the cyclinder head and clean out all of the foam.

Giles, what happened to your "carb post" other post mate?

that was chapter 1, and this is chapter 2. the scooter now starts but is still losing power and now also sounds like a leaf blower. at least i think that's the plot ...

So the saga continues, i wish i was there to help you mate. I have no problem calling the UK so if you wish PM me your number if all else fails.

Cheers

That is why Genie is a moderator!

Thanks for the offer (and help so far), I think I'm now stretching beyond my roadside repair abilities and into the depths of the engine.

At least I can slowly ride to the shop who were so helpful at the weekend.

Although I will have a look at the alternator - uncharted territory for me!

I'll let you know what the shop say...