Mon, 07 Jul 2008 22:20:54 +0000

Addicted
That One!
Joined: Sat, 22 Sep 2007 17:24:35 +0000
Posts: 508
Location: On The Left
 
Addicted
That One!
Joined: Sat, 22 Sep 2007 17:24:35 +0000
Posts: 508
Location: On The Left
Mon, 07 Jul 2008 22:20:54 +0000 quote
when a problem comes along
you must zip it
before the hose rubs too long
you must zip it
when your fix is going wrong
you must zip it

now zip it
against the frame
shape it up
get straight
go forward
move ahead
try to detect it
it's not too late
to zip it
zip it good

when a good hose lets you down
you must zip it
you will never live it down
unless you zip it
no one gets away
until they zip it

i say zip it
zip it good
i say zip it
zip it good
OP
Tue, 08 Jul 2008 12:51:14 +0000

Ossessionato
Mp3 500
Joined: Fri, 14 Mar 2008 12:37:30 +0000
Posts: 2320
Location: Denver Colorado
 
Ossessionato
Mp3 500
Joined: Fri, 14 Mar 2008 12:37:30 +0000
Posts: 2320
Location: Denver Colorado
Tue, 08 Jul 2008 12:51:14 +0000 quote
Thats pretty funny John!
I couldn't seem to get the zip tie threaded through
( have I mention being inept?...) and noted also that the radiator
housing seems to just be plastic-so wondered how much
pressure should be put on it in any case.
So, as is my nature, improvised a new makeshift fix.
Placed a 3M dual lock (very sticky glue on both sides-
tough plastic stuff in the middle) between.
We will see how that goes.
Tue, 08 Jul 2008 13:05:46 +0000

Member
Gilera Fuoco 500
Joined: Tue, 24 Jun 2008 21:45:21 +0000
Posts: 43
Location: Ireland
 
Member
Gilera Fuoco 500
Joined: Tue, 24 Jun 2008 21:45:21 +0000
Posts: 43
Location: Ireland
Tue, 08 Jul 2008 13:05:46 +0000 quote
Same
Checked the new Fuoco last night and its touching. There was a small bit of chaffeing going on too. I jambed a flat plastic keyring fob between them. Its the sort that has a window in it for a name so it will probably stay in there until a better fix is found. Weird addition to the Fuoco but its all I could find fast and it works.
Also fitted a Vistacruise and I will fit the Autocom intercom this evening if I can tear myself off the bike for long enough.
Big thanks to whoever spotted this issue.
Tue, 08 Jul 2008 14:31:29 +0000

Hooked
MP3 500
Joined: Fri, 01 Jun 2007 16:18:20 +0000
Posts: 481
Location: Rexburg Idaho
 
Hooked
MP3 500
Joined: Fri, 01 Jun 2007 16:18:20 +0000
Posts: 481
Location: Rexburg Idaho
Tue, 08 Jul 2008 14:31:29 +0000 quote
The easiest way that I have found to get my hands in there to put on the zip ties, is to go over to a curb. Put on wheel up and leave the other on the ground; level, and lock. This will give you plenty of room to get in and do your stuff.
Tue, 08 Jul 2008 15:03:38 +0000

Addicted
Demon Black 500
Joined: Sun, 25 May 2008 15:46:11 +0000
Posts: 548
Location: Austin, Tx
 
Addicted
Demon Black 500
Joined: Sun, 25 May 2008 15:46:11 +0000
Posts: 548
Location: Austin, Tx
Tue, 08 Jul 2008 15:03:38 +0000 quote
I threw on a couple of zip ties but the heat stretched them out and the hose is rubbing again. As that happened to anyone else?
Tue, 08 Jul 2008 17:41:54 +0000

Addicted
That One!
Joined: Sat, 22 Sep 2007 17:24:35 +0000
Posts: 508
Location: On The Left
 
Addicted
That One!
Joined: Sat, 22 Sep 2007 17:24:35 +0000
Posts: 508
Location: On The Left
Tue, 08 Jul 2008 17:41:54 +0000 quote
Kabuleiro wrote:
I threw on a couple of zip ties but the heat stretched them out and the hose is rubbing again. As that happened to anyone else?
Many good post suggest something around the hose, then zip-tie.
I got my zip-tie from NASA, no problems yet
Use heavy duty zip-tie (Black) and/or exhaust wrap tape similar to this:
http://www.heatshieldproducts.com/bgcq_exhaust_wrap.php


UPDATE July 13th: I still have the original single black zip-tie (that I applied) holding radiator back from motor.
It hasn't failed, the hose hasn't misshapened or developed crease/indent as a result.
Everything is hunky-dory...oki-doki and alrighty-then!
⬆️    About 4w elapsed between posts    ⬇️
Thu, 07 Aug 2008 19:31:56 +0000

Enthusiast
MP3 500
Joined: Thu, 17 Jul 2008 06:04:59 +0000
Posts: 65
Location: Four Corners
 
Enthusiast
MP3 500
Joined: Thu, 17 Jul 2008 06:04:59 +0000
Posts: 65
Location: Four Corners
Thu, 07 Aug 2008 19:31:56 +0000 quote
Hi Folks;

Since I've just read this I wanted to post my own experiences and bump this in case newer owners hadn't seen this - and maybe to give a "heads up" to any dealers that read here.

I immediately checked my brand new 500, and thought that there was no protection, as the hose already had been "indented" (but it doesn't appear to have lost any material) with only 15 miles on it.

After double-checking and looking around I found that mine did actually have the factory fix like Pireldi had noted above, but with one big problem...

They wrapped the zip tie and flexible PVC sleeve (it's not actually shrink tubing) around BOTH hoses and the frame pipe, so that the result was that the zip tie had simply slid back along the hoses and frame back behind the plastic shroud.

I ended up snipping the tie and replacing it, but this time feeding it around the lower hose only, and not around the upper hose (which comes from the right side). The tie won't slide back now, and keeps it off the fan.

One other thing I did was to take two small pieces of vinyl hose (slit longways) and slide them in between the radiator bracket and the very ends of the hoses where they go into the radiator. I'd like to tape them in, but I think it would require removing the hoses to do so. The fact that they're right up against a "sharp edged" bracket and the bolts made me nervous.

My thought right now from looking at some of the photos is that in some cases (like mine) the hoses may be too long at the engine end, and as a result the curves at the radiator end get smooshed up tighter against the fan motor and other parts more than they should be. The plastic shroud around the hoses behind the radiator has "flares" molded in to let the hoses float a bit more, but there's a huge gap that goes unutilized on mine. Pireldi's pics look more like what I think it should look like.

My nearest dealer is *190 miles* away, so the dealers won't see much of me, but I'm thinking that sometime in the next year, while it's under warranty, I'll either have the hoses replaced or fixed/shortened so that they aren't bunched up like that.

Just my 2 cents...

Anyway, I thought you should know that the "factory fix" isn't always fixed.

Zang
Tue, 19 Aug 2008 21:32:56 +0000

Member
MP3 500-ReD (Sarafina)
Joined: Fri, 01 Aug 2008 15:14:01 +0000
Posts: 48
Location: San Diego, Ca.
 
Member
MP3 500-ReD (Sarafina)
Joined: Fri, 01 Aug 2008 15:14:01 +0000
Posts: 48
Location: San Diego, Ca.
Tue, 19 Aug 2008 21:32:56 +0000 quote
Yep, mine has it. (500) Taking her in tommorrow to get her right turn signal fixed. Will have them look at this too.

Friggn turn signals seem really easy to break.

tiny..
Tue, 19 Aug 2008 23:14:20 +0000

Moderaptor
The Hornet (GT200, aka Love Bug) and 'Dimples' - a GTS 300
Joined: Sun, 26 Aug 2007 20:16:15 +0000
Posts: 42950
Location: Pleasant Hill, CA
 
Moderaptor
The Hornet (GT200, aka Love Bug) and 'Dimples' - a GTS 300
Joined: Sun, 26 Aug 2007 20:16:15 +0000
Posts: 42950
Location: Pleasant Hill, CA
Tue, 19 Aug 2008 23:14:20 +0000 quote
Turn signals are very easy to put back on as well. Must have done mine about 20 times...
Wed, 20 Aug 2008 00:31:39 +0000

Member
MP3 500
Joined: Wed, 09 Jul 2008 02:54:08 +0000
Posts: 15
Location: Austin
 
Member
MP3 500
Joined: Wed, 09 Jul 2008 02:54:08 +0000
Posts: 15
Location: Austin
Wed, 20 Aug 2008 00:31:39 +0000 quote
Thanks guys for the heads up.

It looks like in some cases (as it is with mine) there is a sleeve around the hose to help protect it, but that's not going to be adequate; as you might be able to tell from the indention the fan housing has created on the hard plastic. Here's my quick/temporary fix. I'll probably end up putting a rubber sleeve around the hose then re-tying it with the cable tie or just let it rest against the housing like one of the previous pics. Not sure I like the cable tie supporting the hose itself.

cable ties and velcro - great contributions to mankind
OP
Wed, 20 Aug 2008 02:11:56 +0000

Ossessionato
Mp3 500
Joined: Fri, 14 Mar 2008 12:37:30 +0000
Posts: 2320
Location: Denver Colorado
 
Ossessionato
Mp3 500
Joined: Fri, 14 Mar 2008 12:37:30 +0000
Posts: 2320
Location: Denver Colorado
Wed, 20 Aug 2008 02:11:56 +0000 quote
I started to fix mine that way, but was a little concern at the plastic part that is being looped around- wasn't convinced it was up to the strain I was putting on it.
I put a simple washer in the area affected, (on my wife's bike) and I just checked it today and it was still in place doing its job. I think I will do that on my own bike ( my makeshift fix on mine is not doing as well).
Keep an eye on it for stressing that plastic housing, and try a washer if all else fails! Best of luck!
Wed, 20 Aug 2008 02:38:29 +0000

Hooked
MP3 500
Joined: Fri, 01 Jun 2007 16:18:20 +0000
Posts: 481
Location: Rexburg Idaho
 
Hooked
MP3 500
Joined: Fri, 01 Jun 2007 16:18:20 +0000
Posts: 481
Location: Rexburg Idaho
Wed, 20 Aug 2008 02:38:29 +0000 quote
This plastic sleeve that some people are saying is a factory fix, should not just leave it at that. I for one don't think it is a factory fix. The sleeve is very thin and will rub through very quickly. Make every attempt to put a hard plastic sleeve, or thick hosing around it. If you put a thicker hose around it, that is not a cure all, as anything that is rubber will eventually rub through. Check it every once in a while if you are using rubber to protect rubber.
Wed, 20 Aug 2008 17:20:12 +0000

Member
MP3 500-ReD (Sarafina)
Joined: Fri, 01 Aug 2008 15:14:01 +0000
Posts: 48
Location: San Diego, Ca.
 
Member
MP3 500-ReD (Sarafina)
Joined: Fri, 01 Aug 2008 15:14:01 +0000
Posts: 48
Location: San Diego, Ca.
Wed, 20 Aug 2008 17:20:12 +0000 quote
Took her in today and there is a factory fix he looked it up.....Just what you all have been doing with zip ties...

Yah, jmc, the tech explained to me how to fix my light.

tiny...
Thu, 21 Aug 2008 02:04:23 +0000

Molto Verboso
MP3 500
Joined: Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:36:24 +0000
Posts: 1299
Location: Utah
 
Molto Verboso
MP3 500
Joined: Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:36:24 +0000
Posts: 1299
Location: Utah
Thu, 21 Aug 2008 02:04:23 +0000 quote
Rob in Denver
Rob :
Another fix is slice a 3/4"PVC coupling lengthwise then zip tie one above and one below the cut. Inside the coupling is a raised bead of PVC that slots into the cut on the water line. The added benefit is that at anytime you wish you can rotate the coupling around to a new location.
Fri, 22 Aug 2008 14:39:41 +0000

Enthusiast
Piaggio MP3 500 (demon black)
Joined: Fri, 01 Aug 2008 18:46:27 +0000
Posts: 62
Location: Garland, TX (Dallas)
 
Enthusiast
Piaggio MP3 500 (demon black)
Joined: Fri, 01 Aug 2008 18:46:27 +0000
Posts: 62
Location: Garland, TX (Dallas)
Fri, 22 Aug 2008 14:39:41 +0000 quote
I picked up my 500 yesterday, and I have plenty of clearance as well. Looks like that's been fixed.
Sun, 24 Aug 2008 03:10:38 +0000

Member
Black Piaggio MP3 500
Joined: Sat, 26 Jul 2008 01:31:59 +0000
Posts: 6
Location: Denver, CO
 
Member
Black Piaggio MP3 500
Joined: Sat, 26 Jul 2008 01:31:59 +0000
Posts: 6
Location: Denver, CO
Sun, 24 Aug 2008 03:10:38 +0000 quote
Re: Check your 500 for this issue-easy fix
Just logged in this morning to see what's new and found this thread about the rubbing issue on the coolant hose. Figured this wouldn't be a big deal on my MP3 as I only have about 300 miles, until I got to the post from John Scholz! Went out and checked ... indeed a significant amount of wear-through on the hose ... yow! Put a zip tie on it to pull it back, but will have the dealer do a bit more permanent solution shortly. Since day one, the horn has not worked, so have to get that done soon. My MP3 500 has a bit of a soft backfire, and after reading another discussion, figure this should be looked at as well. Took it in to Sportique about a week after I bought it, and they told me this was perfectly normal ... but I still would like to see if this can be remedied.

Thanks for all the info you share here ... it has been invaluable as I get used to my new scooter ... lovin' it!
Sun, 24 Aug 2008 03:59:31 +0000

Molto Verboso
She's an I-talian $$-burning machine
Joined: Tue, 13 May 2008 02:46:56 +0000
Posts: 1859
Location: America, The Beautiful
 
Molto Verboso
She's an I-talian $$-burning machine
Joined: Tue, 13 May 2008 02:46:56 +0000
Posts: 1859
Location: America, The Beautiful
Sun, 24 Aug 2008 03:59:31 +0000 quote
I say
RECALL.

I can't believe what I am reading here. Most of you guys paid over 10 grands of your hard-earned money for this scooter, and you're using zip-ties, hoses, and other DIY methods to remedy what is clearly a mfr.'s problem. Take it back to the dealers, and demand to have it fixed for free, plus an apology. What the heck are you afraid of anyway. Je-e-sus Christ!?
Sun, 24 Aug 2008 08:15:06 +0000

Moderaptor
The Hornet (GT200, aka Love Bug) and 'Dimples' - a GTS 300
Joined: Sun, 26 Aug 2007 20:16:15 +0000
Posts: 42950
Location: Pleasant Hill, CA
 
Moderaptor
The Hornet (GT200, aka Love Bug) and 'Dimples' - a GTS 300
Joined: Sun, 26 Aug 2007 20:16:15 +0000
Posts: 42950
Location: Pleasant Hill, CA
Sun, 24 Aug 2008 08:15:06 +0000 quote
Well purleease... If the dealer fix is a cable-tie, surely it's far easier to DIY rather than take up your time and his? It's a ten-second fix.
Sun, 24 Aug 2008 11:08:55 +0000

Molto Verboso
She's an I-talian $$-burning machine
Joined: Tue, 13 May 2008 02:46:56 +0000
Posts: 1859
Location: America, The Beautiful
 
Molto Verboso
She's an I-talian $$-burning machine
Joined: Tue, 13 May 2008 02:46:56 +0000
Posts: 1859
Location: America, The Beautiful
Sun, 24 Aug 2008 11:08:55 +0000 quote
Let me see. So everytime some problem like this, or perhaps one even more critical occurs, your collective answer is to "zip it, and zip it good"? Now would an owner of a barely 6-month old Mercedes Benz have to do the same, I wonder? Don't forget duct tape, that's an old standby, too.

If owners of mp3's can't effect some real changes by having Piaggio correct an obvious design flaw like this one; then perhaps you're not moving forward, but instead, backward as a group.

There're dealers lurking around here, and I just want to hear them say,"Sure, not a problem. Bring it in and we will fix it." But, no, everyone seems plenty happy to resort to some two-bit way to solve (or laugh at, or blame oneself for) this problem. I don't find it funny at all.

You big-spenders deserve much more decent treatment or response from dealers/and Piaggio for something like this, that's all I am saying. Lexus customers don't need zip-ties, OK? Pleeeeaze.
⚠️ Last edited by sushiman007 on Sun, 24 Aug 2008 15:17:09 +0000; edited 1 time
Sun, 24 Aug 2008 14:05:43 +0000

Member
MP3 500
Joined: Wed, 09 Jul 2008 02:54:08 +0000
Posts: 15
Location: Austin
 
Member
MP3 500
Joined: Wed, 09 Jul 2008 02:54:08 +0000
Posts: 15
Location: Austin
Sun, 24 Aug 2008 14:05:43 +0000 quote
Good point Sushiman. Thanks for the reality check on this one.
Sun, 24 Aug 2008 14:20:01 +0000

Hooked
MP3 500
Joined: Fri, 01 Jun 2007 16:18:20 +0000
Posts: 481
Location: Rexburg Idaho
 
Hooked
MP3 500
Joined: Fri, 01 Jun 2007 16:18:20 +0000
Posts: 481
Location: Rexburg Idaho
Sun, 24 Aug 2008 14:20:01 +0000 quote
sushiman007 wrote:
Let me see. So everytime some problem like this, or perhaps one even more critical occurs, your collective answer is to "zip it, and zip it good"? Now would an owner of a barely 6-month old Mercedes Benz have to do the same, I wonder? Don't forget duct tape, that's an old standby, too.

If owners of mp3's can't effect some real changes by having Piaggio correct an obvious design flaw like this one; then perhaps you're not moving forward, but in stead, backward as a group.

There're dealers lurking around here, and I just want to hear them say,"Sure, not a problem. Bring it in and we will fix it." But, no, everyone seems plenty happy to resort to some two-bit way to solve (or laugh at, or blame oneself for) this problem. I don't find it funny at all.

You big-spenders deserve much more decent treatment or response from dealers/and Piaggio for something like this, that's all I am saying. Lexus customers don't need zip-ties, OK? Pleeeeaze.
I don't see why your rambling about deserving better treatment or response from dealers when we are the ones not taking it our bike there in the first place. I would much rather DIM than haul my ass 37 miles for a 10 second fix. I for one would rather do everything myself if I could. Things I can't do I take it in (thus the critical does not take a zip tie, anybody knows that). I like to work with my hands, I like to accomplish fixes on my own. Maybe not everybody feels the same about it as I do, but the reason I can afford one of these anyways is because of my hard work and reliance on myself and not someone else. Who used ducktape? Don't exagerate........pleeeeeeeese!
Sun, 24 Aug 2008 15:08:33 +0000

Molto Verboso
She's an I-talian $$-burning machine
Joined: Tue, 13 May 2008 02:46:56 +0000
Posts: 1859
Location: America, The Beautiful
 
Molto Verboso
She's an I-talian $$-burning machine
Joined: Tue, 13 May 2008 02:46:56 +0000
Posts: 1859
Location: America, The Beautiful
Sun, 24 Aug 2008 15:08:33 +0000 quote
No one is questioning your or my stance on self-reliance, Hepworth; actually the reason why we're all here is because we are all a bit of a Handy-Dan one way or anther. But if it's a mfg issue or a design flaw that the dealers should fix according to warranty, then they ought to do it. By that I mean something better than just wrapping a zip-tie around the hose.

If we only try to solve mfg issues on our end and not bring it to the attention of Piaggio/Dealers; then they would never take it seriously, and no subsequent improvement would be made from their end.

BTW, Matt C, have you heard from Piaggio? What's their plan of action on this one?
Sun, 24 Aug 2008 15:48:47 +0000

Hooked
MP3 500
Joined: Fri, 01 Jun 2007 16:18:20 +0000
Posts: 481
Location: Rexburg Idaho
 
Hooked
MP3 500
Joined: Fri, 01 Jun 2007 16:18:20 +0000
Posts: 481
Location: Rexburg Idaho
Sun, 24 Aug 2008 15:48:47 +0000 quote
It seems like half of us are having the hose issue and the other is not. I don't know if I would consider it a design flaw but an installer flaw, so definetly a mfg issue. Those with out the problem have plenty of space because of the way the hoses were fitted. That guy on the assembly line did it right. The other guy just threw them in there. But you are right, Piaggio needs to know about these issues so they can take care of it at the factory. I see where you are coming from and you have valid points. Damn those spoiled Lexus owners'. 8)
Sun, 24 Aug 2008 16:03:32 +0000

Moderaptor
The Hornet (GT200, aka Love Bug) and 'Dimples' - a GTS 300
Joined: Sun, 26 Aug 2007 20:16:15 +0000
Posts: 42950
Location: Pleasant Hill, CA
 
Moderaptor
The Hornet (GT200, aka Love Bug) and 'Dimples' - a GTS 300
Joined: Sun, 26 Aug 2007 20:16:15 +0000
Posts: 42950
Location: Pleasant Hill, CA
Sun, 24 Aug 2008 16:03:32 +0000 quote
That's the point, Piaggio Italy are aware of the potential problem and new machines shouldn't suffer from it. Any bike up until then had a chance of the problem, the solution is to tie the hose out of the way. DIY or spend time taking it to the dealer, your choice.

But tell your dealer by all means, I've told about 5 dealers around here! It should be a PDI check item now anyway.
Mon, 01 Sep 2008 21:25:54 +0000

Member
MP3 500
Joined: Sun, 31 Aug 2008 00:44:51 +0000
Posts: 14
Location: Bossier City, Louisiana USA
 
Member
MP3 500
Joined: Sun, 31 Aug 2008 00:44:51 +0000
Posts: 14
Location: Bossier City, Louisiana USA
Mon, 01 Sep 2008 21:25:54 +0000 quote
Thanks for the heads up i just got my 2009 MP3 and i've rode maybe a week on it so far and i already see wear on the hose sleeve. On top of that my tilt lock alarm keeps going off after i park over night.
Tue, 02 Sep 2008 02:55:39 +0000

Molto Verboso
She's an I-talian $$-burning machine
Joined: Tue, 13 May 2008 02:46:56 +0000
Posts: 1859
Location: America, The Beautiful
 
Molto Verboso
She's an I-talian $$-burning machine
Joined: Tue, 13 May 2008 02:46:56 +0000
Posts: 1859
Location: America, The Beautiful
Tue, 02 Sep 2008 02:55:39 +0000 quote
Hey, Vonnukem!
2009. What month was your mp3 500 produced? Sorry to hear the problems were not fixed, even for the 2009 model.

BTW, were you affected by Hurricane Gustav?
Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:22:16 +0000

Enthusiast
MP3 500 Black
Joined: Thu, 22 May 2008 18:46:38 +0000
Posts: 68
Location: San Jose - Manhattan Beach
 
Enthusiast
MP3 500 Black
Joined: Thu, 22 May 2008 18:46:38 +0000
Posts: 68
Location: San Jose - Manhattan Beach
Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:22:16 +0000 quote
the tie strap should be fixed to the black tubular frame...
not the plastic cover. I did mine and it's perfect no crease. Was going to become an issue. every 500 owner should check there bike.
OP
Sun, 07 Sep 2008 22:32:20 +0000

Ossessionato
Mp3 500
Joined: Fri, 14 Mar 2008 12:37:30 +0000
Posts: 2320
Location: Denver Colorado
 
Ossessionato
Mp3 500
Joined: Fri, 14 Mar 2008 12:37:30 +0000
Posts: 2320
Location: Denver Colorado
Sun, 07 Sep 2008 22:32:20 +0000 quote
Ok. One more trip under the scooter, took the twist tie off the plastic,
put it around the tube. It maybe is squeezing some other hose or hopefully
just electrical line in the process. There is a lot a stuff going on in there.
Just a note, my wifes bike is still good with just a simple washer stuck between the hose and housing. Will do hers the "right' way soon.
⬆️    About 4w elapsed between posts    ⬇️
Mon, 06 Oct 2008 14:21:56 +0000

Member
MP3 500
Joined: Sun, 05 Oct 2008 20:15:42 +0000
Posts: 16
Location: McLean, VA
 
Member
MP3 500
Joined: Sun, 05 Oct 2008 20:15:42 +0000
Posts: 16
Location: McLean, VA
Mon, 06 Oct 2008 14:21:56 +0000 quote
One More MP3 500 Hose Issue Fixed
Thanks to all of you that share information on this site. I bought a MP3 500 from a first owner (1000 miles) and would not have even thought to look for an issue like this. My hose was worn/indented.

I used some zip ties, first putting a slice of an old radiator hose around the Piaggio hose, so that the zip ties would not eat into the Piaggio hose.

One potential hint: I had a hard time moving the hose away initially to see the worn part, as the hose was inflexible and hard to pull up and away from the fan housing unit. However, after riding to and back from the hardware store, the hose had warmed up from the radiator fluids and was then very easy to move and pull away from the fan housing. So, if anyone has trouble moving the hose to look for this problem, a quick trip on the scooter will make the hose warm and flexible to move and then pull back and zip up.
Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:14:54 +0000

Molto Verboso
MP3 500
Joined: Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:36:24 +0000
Posts: 1299
Location: Utah
 
Molto Verboso
MP3 500
Joined: Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:36:24 +0000
Posts: 1299
Location: Utah
Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:14:54 +0000 quote
Update
Since Aug 21st I have rotated the PVC coulping and lo & behold there was no cutting action on the PVC, however the PVC was deformed. That being noted I question: How long before we will see any heat deformation on the zip ties? So I removed 1/3rd of a 3/4" copper coulper, leaving 2/3rds to wrap around the PVC. I'm hoping to disapate the heat over a larger area. And where is that heat coming from? Well I would venture to say both the fan motor and the hose. Having done this one month ago I see no signs of any further progression. The zip ties were removed and replaced with slainless steel hose bands.
⚠️ Last edited by Maynard Schweigert on Thu, 04 Jun 2015 23:22:45 +0000; edited 2 times
Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:26:12 +0000

Moderaptor
The Hornet (GT200, aka Love Bug) and 'Dimples' - a GTS 300
Joined: Sun, 26 Aug 2007 20:16:15 +0000
Posts: 42950
Location: Pleasant Hill, CA
 
Moderaptor
The Hornet (GT200, aka Love Bug) and 'Dimples' - a GTS 300
Joined: Sun, 26 Aug 2007 20:16:15 +0000
Posts: 42950
Location: Pleasant Hill, CA
Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:26:12 +0000 quote
It's not heat that makes the cut in the hose, it's mechanical wear through vibration. Separate the sharp edge from the softer material - no wear.
Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:30:35 +0000

Molto Verboso
MP3 500
Joined: Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:36:24 +0000
Posts: 1299
Location: Utah
 
Molto Verboso
MP3 500
Joined: Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:36:24 +0000
Posts: 1299
Location: Utah
Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:30:35 +0000 quote
Hose
True, and heat speeds up the cutting.
Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:37:26 +0000

Moderaptor
The Hornet (GT200, aka Love Bug) and 'Dimples' - a GTS 300
Joined: Sun, 26 Aug 2007 20:16:15 +0000
Posts: 42950
Location: Pleasant Hill, CA
 
Moderaptor
The Hornet (GT200, aka Love Bug) and 'Dimples' - a GTS 300
Joined: Sun, 26 Aug 2007 20:16:15 +0000
Posts: 42950
Location: Pleasant Hill, CA
Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:37:26 +0000 quote
True - but this isn't great heat we're talking about, a maximum of 105C. And I suspect a softer hose might give way more easily rather than press so hard against the sharp fan motor edge, so it's debatable. My guess (and that is all it is) is that the wear will be about the same cold or hot, it's just a different balance of conditions. But wear it will, unless some action is taken for those bikes that have the hose not so well positioned.
Tue, 07 Oct 2008 16:43:11 +0000

Member
MP3 500
Joined: Sun, 05 Oct 2008 20:15:42 +0000
Posts: 16
Location: McLean, VA
 
Member
MP3 500
Joined: Sun, 05 Oct 2008 20:15:42 +0000
Posts: 16
Location: McLean, VA
Tue, 07 Oct 2008 16:43:11 +0000 quote
Heat Resistant Ties
When I went to the hardware store to buy zip-ties, there were two types -- black ones and clear ones. Looking a little closer, I found that the black ones were heat resistant to 185 degrees. That brought me back to my days working in a gas station -- within the engine compartment of all cars are many zip-ties. They have to be heat resistant to handle the engine and radiator heat.

So, try to find heat resistant ties -- they may sell them at the auto parts store, the hardware store (mine had them) or you can find them online. My experience was I needed ones at least 10 inches long. i bought 8 inch ones and they were not long enough to go around the hose and back up around the plastic framing.
Tue, 07 Oct 2008 21:33:53 +0000

Banned
Joined: Fri, 25 Apr 2008 01:42:27 +0000
Posts: 2919

 
Banned
Joined: Fri, 25 Apr 2008 01:42:27 +0000
Posts: 2919

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 21:33:53 +0000 quote
Black ones are UV resistant too.

Luckily I work in a Data Center and have 1000's of tie-raps to chose from. I used a nice wide one that Dell ships us with ever server. Plus they are re-usable so I can pull it off if I need to and put back the same one.

Wayne B
Wed, 08 Oct 2008 09:29:56 +0000

Member
2009 MP3 500
Joined: Wed, 08 Oct 2008 06:16:42 +0000
Posts: 7
Location: Scottsdale, Arizona
 
Member
2009 MP3 500
Joined: Wed, 08 Oct 2008 06:16:42 +0000
Posts: 7
Location: Scottsdale, Arizona
Wed, 08 Oct 2008 09:29:56 +0000 quote
Check Your 500 For The Hose Issue
Thanks for the heads up on the hose issue. I took delivery of a 2009 MP3 500 two weeks ago. I have 200 miles thus far. The date of manufacture was 07/08. I did a visual and touch check of the hose on the left side of the bike and found approximately a quarter inch clearance between the upper end of the hose and the fan frame.

The only place the hose is barely touching is the lower edge of the cutout on plastic shroud that protects that part of the bike from the wheel housing.

So this bike seems to be OK, but I will inspect it on a monthly basis.

This is a great forum!
⬆️    About 7w elapsed between posts    ⬇️
Thu, 27 Nov 2008 15:04:28 +0000

Enthusiast
MP3 Fantasy
Joined: Thu, 12 Jun 2008 21:54:43 +0000
Posts: 63
Location: New York
 
Enthusiast
MP3 Fantasy
Joined: Thu, 12 Jun 2008 21:54:43 +0000
Posts: 63
Location: New York
Thu, 27 Nov 2008 15:04:28 +0000 quote
Rob In Denver wrote:
Well, my makeshift fix (see photo on first post) has fallen out after about 100 miles,
I thought it was wedged tight enough to hold but was wrong,
there must be quite a bit of vibrating going on. I will look into the zip tie.
NEVER copy any of my inept mechanical repairs!!
You have been fairly warned!
Rob, we truly appreciate your help.
I own a 2009 MP3 500. I found that mine had the same hose issue like yours. It had definate signs of wear and melting. I've only got 400 miles on the bike.

Here's what I did:
1) I took a piece of cardboard and cut it into a square and folded it in half.
2) Then I cut some thick foil and sandwiched it inside the cardboard. I found that cutting up a disposable foil pan works well.
3) Next I wrapped the cardboard/foil sandwich in a heat resistent tape. NOT duct tape. This tape can be found at your local hardware store. It has a shiny silver appearence (like aluminium) and is used by heating and air conditioning contractors. When you go to the hardware store, ask for "heat tape" as it's commonly called.
4) I wedged it just like you did.
5) I wraped it with a zip tie.
⬆️    About 10w elapsed between posts    ⬇️
Sat, 07 Feb 2009 00:07:29 +0000

Hooked
MP3 - 500
Joined: Sun, 11 Jan 2009 23:51:19 +0000
Posts: 427
Location: Alabama, USA
 
Hooked
MP3 - 500
Joined: Sun, 11 Jan 2009 23:51:19 +0000
Posts: 427
Location: Alabama, USA
Sat, 07 Feb 2009 00:07:29 +0000 quote
Thanks to this great forum and participants I've discovered my '09 500 with only 250 miles has fallen victim to the terrible chafed hose epidemic.

Fixed it up with a black(heat resistant) plastic tie. Did this by tieing both rad. hoses together, instead of using the adjacent frame tube. Hopefully, this will work for the long term, or my 1st. scheduled visit to the shop at 600 miles.

Cheers........R
⬆️    About 5w elapsed between posts    ⬇️
Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:31:44 +0000

Member
MP3 500
Joined: Thu, 29 Jan 2009 17:08:53 +0000
Posts: 21
Location: Texas
 
Member
MP3 500
Joined: Thu, 29 Jan 2009 17:08:53 +0000
Posts: 21
Location: Texas
Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:31:44 +0000 quote
Is there a recall on this problem? It should be covered on the warranty. Diane
Mon, 16 Mar 2009 12:44:58 +0000

Moderaptor
The Hornet (GT200, aka Love Bug) and 'Dimples' - a GTS 300
Joined: Sun, 26 Aug 2007 20:16:15 +0000
Posts: 42950
Location: Pleasant Hill, CA
 
Moderaptor
The Hornet (GT200, aka Love Bug) and 'Dimples' - a GTS 300
Joined: Sun, 26 Aug 2007 20:16:15 +0000
Posts: 42950
Location: Pleasant Hill, CA
Mon, 16 Mar 2009 12:44:58 +0000 quote
No recall - it's not that serious an issue, and apparently was rapidly corrected at the factory. It should be looked for and corrected at normal service time by any competent dealer.
  DoubleGood Design  

Modern Vespa is the premier site for modern Vespa and Piaggio scooters. Vespa GTS300, GTS250, GTV, GT200, LX150, LXS, ET4, ET2, MP3, Fuoco, Elettrica and more.


Shop on Amazon with Modern Vespa

Modern Vespa is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com

All Content Copyright 2005-2023 by Modern Vespa. All Rights Reserved.

[ Time: 0.0858s ][ Queries: 4 (0.0601s) ][ Debug on ][ 299 ][ Thing Two ]