Modern Vespa

I have a question--tried doing a search, but couldn't seem to find the one bit of info I needed.

When adding washers (or a nylon spacer) to those 3 bolts in the front, don't you then need longer bolts? If so, where can I find the correct size, other than a Piaggio dealer? Our Ace Hardware does not carry metric parts. I already had problems locating the right size eye bolts to carry out Fay's famous "girl bag/man bag" mod.

And, another question: most of the threads I've read about this don't mention the light under the seat being affected, but a few do. Can I get a little more clarification on what I need to be watching for so that I don't run my battery down?

Thanks, sorry to be a bother--neither hubby nor I am very mechanically inclined, so I'm being very cautious.

You might not need longer bolts, try it with the oem ones first and see. If your local Ace people don't know how to order metrics I'd be amazed. In a pinch you can order them on-line from zillions of sources; try True Value, they have ton's of metrics. NAPA also carries them.

The under-seat light has a remote on your panel that lights up when it's turned on. I used 6 washers under each point without issues.

Luck...

LL75

lowes or home depot carry some 6mm bolts, normally in those pull out drawers over in hardware. I used 3 each of the 1/2" nuts that will slip right thru the 6mm threaded bolts. that way you don't have to try and fiddle with a stack of washers on each bolt when lining them back up. I think the add length was about and extra 10mm longer then stock length. This did not affect my light switch at all, still functions properly. If you do raise it more and the light stays on, you can always remove the side panel and just remove the light bulb itself.

Thanks very much, guys!!

MOD: Raised Front of Seat Suggest you read the whole thread (well, my contribution, anyway ) as there are some "gotchas" to be aware of.

I've done the mod to try it and undid it. It works well enough BUT I believe the seat flexes too much and would start cracking over time as it was not designed to flex like that. I think you would need to raise the front lip of the pet carrier too to eliminate the flex. Others have done the mod and left it and enjoy it. If you go up an inch, you will need new longer bolts.

Just in case you hadn't thought of it, consider getting a seat pad for elevation and comfort instead of or in addition to the mod. Many here like the airhawk - I don't - or the air rider - which is what I have. the air rider gel pad gives me about an extra inch height and a lot more comfort. Haven't tried the hinge bolt spacer mod, primarily for the reason mjm mentioned and my discomfort with changing the way the pet carrier (sort of) seals when closed.

Yon easily google airhawk and air rider for more info on them.

+1. I had both the seat riser (since removed), and the airhawk (since sold), andthe air rider (still have, but am considering selling it now that I have the footpegs, which solved the whole issue for me).