Modern Vespa

My low beam light went out and I thought it was just loose. When I opened up the headset, this is what I discovered:




I'd like to know what could cause that (so I can avoid a repeat) and how can I fix it. Any help is appreciated.

Thanks,
Anne

This kind of thing can result from either corrosion of the connector, a loose connector, or broken strands in the wire at the connector from vibration... anything that creates increased electrical resistance at that point. Especially with a high-current connection like the headlamp, any increase in resistance causes the connector to heat up, the heat causes additional corrosion and electrical resistance, which causes more heat... until things start to melt and fail altogether.

You really need to keep an eye on all connectors for high-current circuits, as things can go downhill fast when something is allowed to deteriorate.

Don't forget the problem of the malfunctioning voltage regulator where too high a voltage is delivered, increasing the heat. You can check this with a multimeter, should be around 14v at the battery with the engine running and revving slightly. Shouldn't be more than this. If it's at 15 to 17v your voltage regulator needs replacing.

It did deteriorate quickly. I was riding my scooter on Labor Day when I faintly smelled something like melting plastic. I pulled off the road and looked over my scoot but I couldn't pinpoint anything. I did have my pet carrier full with a bag, bathing suit and beach towel and I figured the heat from the engine was making it warm and that was what I smelled. I didn't notice any more funny smells for several days until Thursday night when I noticed my low beam was out. The next morning it was working again but went out again that afternoon and that prompted me to investigate.

Does anyone one know where I can get a replacement part?

I'm sorry to hear about your wireing problems.

Any Vespa dealer should have these parts in stock. But since you are in Orlando, try http://www.vespaorlando.com/

As some of those wires have been toasted and unless you are mechanically/electrically inclined (which I am not) ... I would have that replaced by the dealer.

Thanks, Liane. I just hope it isn't too expensive to be fixed by my dealer. The guys at Vespa Orlando are quick though. I've never had to wait for parts with them.