I’ve had my white 2001 ET 4 for 20 years now. Other Vespa have come and gone also. This one is in fantastic condition. ! Not a mark on her. 23,000 miles I’ve totaled 100,000 miles on vespas and the piaggio X 9. 500. Nothing is more fun than the ET4. Hello from northern New Jersey
Robot just wanted to say you're an absolute G. Your videos are very much appreciated on my end. I'm scooter passionate as well. Have a technical/schooling background involving everything 2 wheels but scooters are my ultimate passion for the reasons you have eloquently mentioned. Again, dude you're awesome, I reside in AZ and yes, nothing feels like pinning throttle on a scooter thru the beautiful desert roads. Hats off scooter genius tech bro for real. Your vids on absolute point.
Bought my et4 in 2001. Last 20 years motorcycles and other vespas came and went. The only constant is my et4. If I plan it right when I die the only thing I’ll have is my et4.
My ET-2 has 1500 miles, i paid $1800. Its registered, and i have 1 key. it's sturdy and classic. it rides really smooth. It goes 35 mph and needs a carb clean, air filter clean. New tires. Fluids changed, maybe brakes.
I've been recruited by the Robot videos! I've had about 30 motorbikes and just bought my first scooter, an 8K mile et4 that was maintained by Vespa Motorsports. I'm replacing the tires, front pads and servicing the belt with the VM tool and and parts kit. So far the parts total $275 in 2021 dollars. This scooter reminds me of a BMW R60, but quicker.
Hi Robot! I just found u here! I've collected 2 stroke vintage mopeds for years. Still have 4, but ready to sell or trade now that I have an 01 Vespa ET 2 50cc. This info is exactly what I needed to get my Vespa in tip top shape. It runs, but needs work. I will do it all thanks to your videos. It needs, Air filter fuel tap, new fuel lines, new brake pads, flush brake fluid, clean carb or buy new. It was garaged and not ridden for 3 years.
So relatable! Picked up an 09 Fly last year that had sat outside for years, Wish I'd seen this video earlier would have saved myself a lot of steps :) Had good results performing a 'hot soak' with Chem-tool along with new fuel lines to clear up a clogged carb/fuel system without having to rebuild/replace.
If it was me I would have gone around every bolt, nut and fixing and sprayed them generously with wd 40 at least 3days before touching or attempting undoing them, a bit of heat and a few gentle taps with my leather and copper hammer wouldn’t go a miss. Yes I know you’re aware of these precautions and has a full time mechanic you can’t flip and fuss around like that. Times money but its tips that can help the remote and broke new owner get it back on the road with minimum expense. Great video robot I respect your knowledge xx
Thank you so much for doing these demo vids! I have an ET2 and have been watching your belt replacement videos - you are very clear and helpful and have given me all the info I need to to the job myself! I enjoyed this one, too, so I can see what maintenance points I missed. :)
I have lots of questions...I have emailed you all on several occasions to no avail. I realize you all are in California. We don't have any real Vespa pro here in Seattle. So I needed this video, Thanks!👊🏾
Sorry you haven’t gotten a response. Robot is a busy man and It’s hard for us to answer specific tech questions over email without scooter here. Glad this could help you out.
I think you must have spies in Ireland :-) Talk about perfect timing! My Covid '19 project is resurrecting my 2004 ET4 and I've a shopping list of parts from your website already. I've already used some of your other videos to help me understand what I'm stripping. I've a few questions that I was going to shoot to you, and now I've even more having seen this video. Thanks so much for posting this!
I've just started on my daughter's 1997 ET4. Not been on the road since 2002. Luckily it has been stored in my garage all that time. Just as well as the UK weather isn't as forgiving as your west coast climate. Two and a half hours to strip the front end!! Took me all day :-). The biggest problem I have encounted is that the bolts shear so easily. I was reassured that everything you mentioned it is on my to do list. Thanks for videos, I enjoy them.
I recently acquired a 2001 ET2 with original battery and 4500km. Voltage was at 0.6 and the cells were dry. Added distilled water to the top of the plates and left it on a pulse charger for a week. Back to 100% and the lil guy starts up super easy. Now to service him...
Hi Robot, I’m from Canada, I just stumbled unto your website, I wished I’d have known about your experience in scooters before. About 3 years ago I bought a 2009 Sym HD 200, I fell in love with this scooter, only to find out 3 years later I can’t find any parts for it any where in Canada. After seeing your video about Vespa and Piaggio scooters I wished I would have bought one of those scooters. I have trouble with the carburetor on this Sym scooter, having no parts for it in Canada I’ll probably have to scrap the whole bike which is a shame. Thanks for all the information on your website which I subscribed quickly.
Nicely done, just picked up wt4 w/et50 glove box etc and I have no license so... but 400$ last one wasa 66" 50cc frame w/125 Primavera, was my love so I'm returning to do something simular but faster and will check your site for upgrades. Ty
ionfuel Nice find! Congratulations. Now get it serviced and go gently, not just because it’s new - bikes don’t like sitting still. A lot of 2007 bikes appeared for sale in london 2019 because they were suddenly required to pay emmisions charge (from that year of manufacture). That’s £15 per day ($20 roughly) to ride to work. Then parking charges went up from £zero to £lots.
I’ve been watching your videos for a while and thanks to you and scooter West I have successfully bought parts for my 2003 Vespa ET2 50,I bought it February of this year with 256 original miles but it needed some little things such as left rear turn signal part to make me feel safer at night,planning on buying new tires for it soon for increased safety
GREAT overview and a FAQ that should be promulgated across every chatboard and Facebook/Reddit group around the globe. However, "All the Vespa 150s sold in the United States have an immobilizer system" ...except the S model (I happen to have one). Interesting feature but not worth the complication in my opinion, on an item that two people can easily toss into a van.
Just resurrected my ET4 50 a few weeks ago. Was sitting in the garage since 2013 when I bought it. Had heavy starting problems. After refurbishing the carburetor and the complete ignition system it still refused to start. Next step was a new engine and since then it runs like new. Seems that the old engine had an issue with the crankshaft and so it only started when the idle setting was pretty high. As soon as you tune it down it refused to start again. Same problem with 3 different carburetors, one of them brand spankin new! At least it runs again and I already did a lot of things to make her shine again. Note done yet, but so far she is looking pretty nice again B-)
Never said it was an easy fix. Just said that it was necessary to resurrect her. I put so many work and money into it that giving up was not an option.
Wow! Great video. Robot I bought a 2008 LX from a neighbor who did some of the work, but found a faster Vespa. $1,000 said and one. Registration is $24 in my state, and no title required. Previous ownder registered it. No hassle. Thanks.
Very helpful videos Robot and have been watching so many of your videos in the last few days. Could please plan to cover 2003 Piaggio LT150? As it seems to be non-existent on youtube and would be super helpful, thanks so much.
Did it ever start? Mine, a British spec ET4 125 runs fine, albeit, the cold start system, doesn’t! However, when I bought it in the Vespa dealer in San José, Costa Rica, there where so many things wrong with her! I bought it because of the looks. Albeit the previous owner had a damaged CDI, the magnetic flywheel and he had damaged the air box as well. I recuperated from him the original keys and bought the original CDI, plus the magnetic flywheel. I also replaced the carburetor. It is a pleasure to drive on errands and also on secondary roads!
Great video when prob I had changing out the belt is making sure that the nut at the end of crankshaft is correctly tensioned. If the belt is tight, you don’t get the proper tightness and I stripped the spines.
When in doubt. Use this simple procedure. Tight the nut as needed, main tip: Is to not overtighten! Until you get the "feeling" just use a torque wrench. It will save you countless headaches. Start it for a second, blip the throttle a couple of times. I really mean 2 or 3 times, just enough to make the wheel turn! Turn it off right away. Tight the nut (again). The belt will not be an issue by then. Because it already run in the cvt! Cheers ;-) PS: Goes without saying. The entire procedure should be done with the scooter on the central stand, rear wheel in the air... ;-)
Watching from the Uk as looking to buy a used Vespa 125cc we don’t have registration issues we have M.O.T which lasts 12 months which can coincide with milage and any structural issues
Mint looking et4 sitting for years will be harder to get running than tatty one that has been sitting for a year or so. If you don't live in Cali paint bubbling and rust along front seam behind mudguard and underneath floor are big issues, if caught early can treat and or patch weld, but if extensive bubbling prob frame toast, also panels expensive to replace, parts bike way to go. If indicators work CDI immobilizer prob will be good as CDI runs indicators too. Gillera runner engine ignition parts are comparable and often cheap. Spot on as ever robot. Put a 200 barrel and piston on it for fun. Be good video.
Robot I watch all of your videos-you are so knowledgeable and simply awesome! Thank you for doing these videos they are so appreciated and your time is even more so appreciated. :0
I have owned a vespa ET2 from new. The original battery has lasted for 18 years. But the battery has been connected to a "Optimiser battery conditioner" when not in use.
Would love to buy an older Vespa and do it up. The cost of parts and freight costs have made it prohibitive. I live in Australia and the costs of freight from the US is crazy. A real shame things are like that now.
Hi Mr. Robot I buy use 2007 Piaggio MP3 250IE about 13 year old got 003710 miles on it! I talk owner he buy from the dealer 2018 bike was use for rental only! I ask him did he work on it only thing he did changes out the engine oil & gear oil and replace two front tires!
I found a Vespa Sprint that's from 2015 and looks like new in the photos he sent me. Originally a 50 cc, it's been upgraded to a 70 cc engine. Is it worth $2400? Or should I buy a cheap bicycle or ciao Piaggio moped for now´, just to get around town this Summer and save up for a motorcycle license costing $3500, then invest in a real Vespa 300 cc or motorcycle instead? I'm wondering about the value for money and if the 70 cc upgrade offers significant advantages over the 50 cc. What are your thoughts on starting out with 70 cc? I'd appreciate your advice so I don't end up regretting a second-hand Vespa purchase online. Thanks for your insights!
I came across your channel when I was in the market for a used scooter. I found one on CL a 2005 ET4 with 1900 miles. Garage kept and very clean. I paid $1500 for it. The scooter has been well taken care of. I know because of the age it will need some maintenance. After watching this video I know it will probably need tires even though it has been in a garage it's entire life. I noticed the fuel gauge is not accurate. Could that be from not much use? Do you have videos on how to trouble shot that? I will also be looking for any videos you may have on tune ups or overhauling the carb. Thanks for sharing your knowledge. I look forward to seeing all your videos so I can do the majority of the service to this little gem I purchased.
Great video. Wish it was uploaded a year ago when i decided to resurrect my 2002 ET4 after 17 years shed storage. May i ask, what exhaust upgrade would you recommend? And when will you upload your video for the install ;-)
Not too much available for the ET4, but we do offer a Sito plus (www.scooterwest.com/sito-plus-et4-lx-150-perfomamce-muffler-sito-et4.html) and a PM Tuning (www.scooterwest.com/pm-tuning-pm56-et4-lx150-and-s150-exhaust-pipe-pmex-et.html). Check out any of our other exhaust install videos and it should be enough to get you through it... Thanks for watching!
At 8:47 - the specs of the cheaper Piaggio-branded battery seems suspiciously identical to the Yuasa battery. Might these be coming out of the same factory?
I got it as is no warrant after i got it home I took a good look on had hole in side the trunk & took it a part check drive belt & rollers it was crack flat one side on belt & rollers was flat on side plus air filter was dry out and rotten! Plus lot of wires unhook & master key was missing & tilt sensor unplug! I got it running i till got lot work to do on it but started look good!!
Consider the et2 ,70cc dr with right gearing and sito exhaust.The 2 stroke demolishes the et 4 in cost and long therm economics.While it can easily (and dremel cheap)achieve the performance of a et4 150 .
Its easy to tune and cheaper - yes,but with that setup its not strong enough to beat a Vespa ET4 150. Its a close race in low speed,but the 150 is far faster.
I agree. Way cheaper to insure too, and that glorious 2t smell. It'll be higher strung (over 9500rpm's, if you're doing it right). A built et2, can easily match a stock et4.
@@Kenneth86666 Get in buddy ;) i had the help of german vespa forum.Around 15 hp and a fuel consumption around 4 litres worst case.A Gearing as long to the moon and back.And a lot of joy. she is now around 1,5 times around the equator.She will be at 2,5 in 18 months.And i thrust her to never give up.In top speed, my gps after crank change and last detail(21mm carb and engine halfs flowing) will absolutely above 115kph (around 68 mph) on straights.Acceleration with 102kg vs 150kg will do the rest
@@ajwasp3642 I go for the dremel and low rev with very high torque, to beat the weakness of fuel consumption.Adjusted with a long stroke 44mm crank you also can get a very nice efficiency with the DR evo unplugged and bored to 4th oversize (85,04 cc)Rpm cruising will be around 8000@62mph. Under full acceleration maybe 9000-9500.The original exhaust(sito plus without catalyst) keeps the powerband quite low,but you can use the weakness to get the torque up.
Yeah, my $85.00 basket case (ET2) is all disassembled, cleaned, and in big plastic bins, at the moment. Slowly acquiring parts, as cheap ones can be found. It should cost me as much as my $200 1960 Motobecane av88 did, to restore. All work being done by myself. Thinking about buying a cosmetically sound, but blown 2010 S150. Case is cracked. Yay, or nay at $300?
Hi-as a Vespa P200E fanatic mainly because they are ultra reliable-i would like your honest opinion as to whether you think the GTS 300 are as reliable as a 1980 P200E was ? I have never rode a GTS 300 or even an automatic scooter before but they are growing on me but as i do a lot of Scooter Rally's all over the UK I need excellent reliability like my P200E's have had. Many thanks- Alan
I would never go for an acid battery in scooters. They really lack some kick for the starter in my experience. I prefer gel batteries myself. For my mother her scooter (not Piaggo but a Peugeot) I got an Accurat Sport YTX5L-BS 5Ah 100A 12V battery, and that GY6 engine just keeps turning over without the battery going flat on you. Which I need to do if the scooter has been sitting still over the summer holidays for example and all the fuel evaporates out of the carborator and fuel lines. Since it's a vacuum operated ideal you just need to keep cranking to pull that vacuum on the vacuum operated gas valve until the carborator is filled up and starts spraying again. After that you just keep the engine running for 5 minutes and slowly open up the gas until it seems as if all air is out of the lines, then go for a drive of 5-10 minutes until it responds properly again to throttle input.
At 2:57 - I find it amusing (in a sad-clown way) that most forgotten scooters in California garages and back yards have about $1000 in back registration fees and fines. It is *always* $1k because there is a 3 year limit so that's the max. These no-start 15-20 y/o scooters with original tires/clogged carbs/dead batteries are only worth $1k in their current condition, so the $1k in back registration fees and fines that the buyer MUST PAY effectively totals the scooter and makes it toxic. I guess you can simply not bother asking for the title and drive with expired tags or title in another state (I heard Vermont will title anything). I recently purchased a stolen police recovery 2018 Liberty 150 with $13,000 in tow yard fees after the lien released to the tow yard. Tow yards charge $90/day and it was towed Oct 2022. I purchased it March 2023. To be clear --- the crime victim STILL owes the $13k minus the price I paid the tow yard. That means the first owner will have paid $15,700 for his or her Liberty 150 in total. This could happen to a buyer in California that doesn't register their scooter and gets towed by the parking meter police.
Hey Robot, when are you going to address the issue on the rusting problems Vespas that doesn't to happen on any of my motorcycles? Piaggio and the dealers decided it's the customers problem. Where's the quantity control on the 300 models from the factory and Piaggio not fixing the root problem? This keeps me from buying a new 300gts if this happens to my scooter that I paid over $7300 base price, over $8500 out the door?
My piaggio engine has a new cylinder installed but now it doesnt even start. new gaskets too, it sounds healthy when the automatic start is engaged, it has spark (new sparkplug) and fuel, but it doesnt start anyways, help?
is there anyway to change the decal on the right side of a gts 300 2020 (on the right side theres a chrome decal that says "gts super" or something, anyway to change that to a chrome vespa logo like on the left side)? i have a 2020 notte, if that helps..
We sell all the replacements badges. You can easily remove that Super badge and replace with the Vespa badge from the other side. www.scooterwest.com/vespa-chrome-badge-sticker-4-inch-620530.html We also offer it in a black chrome finish which would look cool on the Notte: www.scooterwest.com/black-vespa-badge-for-gts-super-sport-edition-side-cowl-672061.html
I saw the thumbnail and instantly had trust this man knows his scooters and lattes
I’ve had my white 2001 ET 4 for 20 years now. Other Vespa have come and gone also. This one is in fantastic condition. ! Not a mark on her. 23,000 miles I’ve totaled 100,000 miles on vespas and the piaggio X 9. 500. Nothing is more fun than the ET4. Hello from northern New Jersey
Very nice!
Love watching your channel I am 66 years old always wanted a vespa 2024 will be the year so looking forward to it chat soon Sean from Ireland
Good luck there Shawnee. I've always wanted a Vespa. I bought an ET4 last week. I hope you find your et4!
This is easily the best and most informative Vespa channel in all of YT land.
He’s the bloody best!!
Robot just wanted to say you're an absolute G. Your videos are very much appreciated on my end. I'm scooter passionate as well. Have a technical/schooling background involving everything 2 wheels but scooters are my ultimate passion for the reasons you have eloquently mentioned. Again, dude you're awesome, I reside in AZ and yes, nothing feels like pinning throttle on a scooter thru the beautiful desert roads. Hats off scooter genius tech bro for real. Your vids on absolute point.
Thanks for the awesome comment. We make these vids exactly for people like you. Stay tuned for many more!
Hi ! I have a question . Where do I put the inspection sticker on the Vespa? I appreciate it if you can help me with an answer. Thanks.
Good to see a video showing the reality of getting a scooter back on the road
Bought my et4 in 2001. Last 20 years motorcycles and other vespas came and went. The only constant is my et4. If I plan it right when I die the only thing I’ll have is my et4.
That’s awesome, glad to know you’re keeping the dream alive!
Just bought a et2 50. 5k miles. Rides great. $800.
My ET-2 has 1500 miles, i paid $1800. Its registered, and i have 1 key. it's sturdy and classic. it rides really smooth.
It goes 35 mph and needs a carb clean, air filter clean. New tires. Fluids changed, maybe brakes.
Just became interested in getting a scooter and I’m still in the process of educating myself. Just wanted to say that all your videos are fantastic.
The ET4 is a design masterpiece ! The start from a new classic look!
An older scooter but totally tuned up and safe is worth it
I've been recruited by the Robot videos! I've had about 30 motorbikes and just bought my first scooter, an 8K mile et4 that was maintained by Vespa Motorsports. I'm replacing the tires, front pads and servicing the belt with the VM tool and and parts kit. So far the parts total $275 in 2021 dollars.
This scooter reminds me of a BMW R60, but quicker.
Hi Robot! I just found u here! I've collected 2 stroke vintage mopeds for years. Still have 4, but ready to sell or trade now that I have an 01 Vespa ET 2 50cc. This info is exactly what I needed to get my Vespa in tip top shape. It runs, but needs work. I will do it all thanks to your videos. It needs, Air filter fuel tap, new fuel lines, new brake pads, flush brake fluid, clean carb or buy new. It was garaged and not ridden for 3 years.
I love your explanation and being direct.
Bought and restored quite a few newer LXs and thankfully, they all turned out to be worth the time and effort.
Great to hear! They’re awesome scooters.
This Scooter West dude is the best, how nice is he to put all this content on here for us and for free! I wanna work for you
So relatable! Picked up an 09 Fly last year that had sat outside for years, Wish I'd seen this video earlier would have saved myself a lot of steps :) Had good results performing a 'hot soak' with Chem-tool along with new fuel lines to clear up a clogged carb/fuel system without having to rebuild/replace.
Not sure how I missed this. Another great et4 video! Thanks again Robot!
Glad you enjoyed it!
If it was me I would have gone around every bolt, nut and fixing and sprayed them generously with wd 40 at least 3days before touching or attempting undoing them, a bit of heat and a few gentle taps with my leather and copper hammer wouldn’t go a miss.
Yes I know you’re aware of these precautions and has a full time mechanic you can’t flip and fuss around like that.
Times money but its tips that can help the remote and broke new owner get it back on the road with minimum expense.
Great video robot I respect your knowledge xx
Definitely a good plan of action! Thanks for sharing and thanks for tuning in!
LOL, I do that too, except, I use a penetrant (PB Blast, Liquid Wrench), not WD-40. Try it.
Thank you so much for doing these demo vids! I have an ET2 and have been watching your belt replacement videos - you are very clear and helpful and have given me all the info I need to to the job myself! I enjoyed this one, too, so I can see what maintenance points I missed. :)
I have lots of questions...I have emailed you all on several occasions to no avail. I realize you all are in California. We don't have any real Vespa pro here in Seattle. So I needed this video, Thanks!👊🏾
Sorry you haven’t gotten a response. Robot is a busy man and It’s hard for us to answer specific tech questions over email without scooter here. Glad this could help you out.
I think you must have spies in Ireland :-) Talk about perfect timing! My Covid '19 project is resurrecting my 2004 ET4 and I've a shopping list of parts from your website already. I've already used some of your other videos to help me understand what I'm stripping. I've a few questions that I was going to shoot to you, and now I've even more having seen this video. Thanks so much for posting this!
Wow, great timing indeed. Glad we could help you out a bit and thank you very much for the support!
Can pm. Looking to do the same with my et4 and want to learn fr your experience
I've just started on my daughter's 1997 ET4. Not been on the road since 2002. Luckily it has been stored in my garage all that time. Just as well as the UK weather isn't as forgiving as your west coast climate.
Two and a half hours to strip the front end!! Took me all day :-).
The biggest problem I have encounted is that the bolts shear so easily.
I was reassured that everything you mentioned it is on my to do list.
Thanks for videos, I enjoy them.
Glad we could help out a bit. Good luck on your project, it sounds like a worthy cause! Thanks for watching...
I recently acquired a 2001 ET2 with original battery and 4500km. Voltage was at 0.6 and the cells were dry. Added distilled water to the top of the plates and left it on a pulse charger for a week. Back to 100% and the lil guy starts up super easy.
Now to service him...
Hi Robot, I’m from Canada, I just stumbled unto your website, I wished I’d have known about your experience in scooters before. About 3 years ago I bought a 2009 Sym HD 200, I fell in love with this scooter, only to find out 3 years later I can’t find any parts for it any where in Canada. After seeing your video about Vespa and Piaggio scooters I wished I would have bought one of those scooters. I have trouble with the carburetor on this Sym scooter, having no parts for it in Canada I’ll probably have to scrap the whole bike which is a shame. Thanks for all the information on your website which I subscribed quickly.
Nicely done, just picked up wt4 w/et50 glove box etc and I have no license so... but 400$ last one wasa 66" 50cc frame w/125 Primavera, was my love so I'm returning to do something simular but faster and will check your site for upgrades. Ty
Still it's nice to put history back on the road.
You the man Robot. Very interesting thanks for posting
I acquired a 2007 GT200 Granturisimo last year (2019). Had 47 miles on it.
ionfuel
Nice find! Congratulations.
Now get it serviced and go gently, not just because it’s new - bikes don’t like sitting still.
A lot of 2007 bikes appeared for sale in london 2019 because they were suddenly required to pay emmisions charge (from that year of manufacture).
That’s £15 per day ($20 roughly) to ride to work. Then parking charges went up from £zero to £lots.
@@stephenphillips6212
Oh man, that's nasty! :(
I am jealous. Great find.
had hella of a hard time taking the carb out of my old yamaha majesty. This placement is excellent.
2005 is vintage already. I am getting old :D
,,it’s not really Vintage yet“
I’ve been watching your videos for a while and thanks to you and scooter West I have successfully bought parts for my 2003 Vespa ET2 50,I bought it February of this year with 256 original miles but it needed some little things such as left rear turn signal part to make me feel safer at night,planning on buying new tires for it soon for increased safety
I sure would like to see your collection. A scooter collection video would be awesome.
Maybe one day!
GREAT overview and a FAQ that should be promulgated across every chatboard and Facebook/Reddit group around the globe. However, "All the Vespa 150s sold in the United States have an immobilizer system" ...except the S model (I happen to have one). Interesting feature but not worth the complication in my opinion, on an item that two people can easily toss into a van.
Thanks for tuning in!
Great info Robot. Your experience really shows. Describes exactly what I went through with my 08’ gt 200. Drilling out my ignition was interesting...
Glad it helped
If I order the malossi variator kit, which parts won’t be necessary if I decide to go with the transmission overhaul kit?
I just bought a 2003 Dragon Red ET2 today. 350 miles on the odo and looks brand new. Runs like a top. New tires and I'm g2g.
Awesome! 😎
Thanks Man! Excellent job. Thanks for the level of detail.
You bet!
Just resurrected my ET4 50 a few weeks ago. Was sitting in the garage since 2013 when I bought it. Had heavy starting problems. After refurbishing the carburetor and the complete ignition system it still refused to start. Next step was a new engine and since then it runs like new. Seems that the old engine had an issue with the crankshaft and so it only started when the idle setting was pretty high. As soon as you tune it down it refused to start again. Same problem with 3 different carburetors, one of them brand spankin new! At least it runs again and I already did a lot of things to make her shine again. Note done yet, but so far she is looking pretty nice again B-)
Sounds awesome. Do what you gotta do to keep that thing on the road. Thanks for tuning in!
@@VespaMotorsport Thanks! I will do my best :)
So all it needed was a new engine,and carb,simple fix.
Never said it was an easy fix. Just said that it was necessary to resurrect her. I put so many work and money into it that giving up was not an option.
Great video. Looks like a real barn find. Thanks Robot.
Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for tuning in!
Thank you. I had no idea what to look for and this was very helpful.
Glad it was helpful!
The difference from 2009 to 2016 MP3s is staggering. I could never drive the older ones now. The technology is so much more advanced and safe.
Wow! Great video. Robot I bought a 2008 LX from a neighbor who did some of the work, but found a faster Vespa. $1,000 said and one. Registration is $24 in my state, and no title required. Previous ownder registered it. No hassle. Thanks.
Right on! Thanks for watching.
Thanks Robot , you are a wealth of information and the information is very helpful.
My pleasure!
Good detailed thorough advice, great reminders. thanks from uk
Very helpful videos Robot and have been watching so many of your videos in the last few days. Could please plan to cover 2003 Piaggio LT150? As it seems to be non-existent on youtube and would be super helpful, thanks so much.
Did it ever start? Mine, a British spec ET4 125 runs fine, albeit, the cold start system, doesn’t!
However, when I bought it in the Vespa dealer in San José, Costa Rica, there where so many things wrong with her!
I bought it because of the looks. Albeit the previous owner had a damaged CDI, the magnetic flywheel and he had damaged the air box as well.
I recuperated from him the original keys and bought the original CDI, plus the magnetic flywheel. I also replaced the carburetor.
It is a pleasure to drive on errands and also on secondary roads!
Sweet hat Robot! You're the man.
Great video when prob I had changing out the belt is making sure that the nut at the end of crankshaft is correctly tensioned. If the belt is tight, you don’t get the proper tightness and I stripped the spines.
When in doubt. Use this simple procedure.
Tight the nut as needed, main tip: Is to not overtighten! Until you get the "feeling" just use a torque wrench. It will save you countless headaches.
Start it for a second, blip the throttle a couple of times. I really mean 2 or 3 times, just enough to make the wheel turn! Turn it off right away.
Tight the nut (again). The belt will not be an issue by then. Because it already run in the cvt! Cheers ;-)
PS: Goes without saying. The entire procedure should be done with the scooter on the central stand, rear wheel in the air... ;-)
Exactly what I need now, very interested in buying a second-hand GTS 300.
Good video. Really tells you want you are getting yourself into.
So true, thanks for tuning in!
Watching from the Uk as looking to buy a used Vespa 125cc we don’t have registration issues we have M.O.T which lasts 12 months which can coincide with milage and any structural issues
Mint looking et4 sitting for years will be harder to get running than tatty one that has been sitting for a year or so. If you don't live in Cali paint bubbling and rust along front seam behind mudguard and underneath floor are big issues, if caught early can treat and or patch weld, but if extensive bubbling prob frame toast, also panels expensive to replace, parts bike way to go. If indicators work CDI immobilizer prob will be good as CDI runs indicators too.
Gillera runner engine ignition parts are comparable and often cheap.
Spot on as ever robot. Put a 200 barrel and piston on it for fun. Be good video.
Thanks for the additions, all very valid points!
Robot I watch all of your videos-you are so knowledgeable and simply awesome! Thank you for doing these videos they are so appreciated and your time is even more so appreciated. :0
To bad i live in Europe, not Italy..... I like your movies a lot. I subscribed thumd you up. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
I have owned a vespa ET2 from new.
The original battery has lasted for 18 years.
But the battery has been connected to a
"Optimiser battery conditioner" when not in use.
Good on you for keeping that thing alive and well maintained!
Would love to buy an older Vespa and do it up. The cost of parts and freight costs have made it prohibitive. I live in Australia and the costs of freight from the US is crazy. A real shame things are like that now.
Hi , in your opinion is this old motor (pre leader ) less reliable than the leader one?
Hi Mr. Robot I buy use 2007 Piaggio MP3 250IE about 13 year old got 003710 miles on it! I talk owner he buy from the dealer 2018 bike was use for rental only! I ask him did he work on it only thing he did changes out the engine oil & gear oil and replace two front tires!
Where can l get a robot like this one ? He has exceptional programing !
I found a Vespa Sprint that's from 2015 and looks like new in the photos he sent me. Originally a 50 cc, it's been upgraded to a 70 cc engine. Is it worth $2400? Or should I buy a cheap bicycle or ciao Piaggio moped for now´, just to get around town this Summer and save up for a motorcycle license costing $3500, then invest in a real Vespa 300 cc or motorcycle instead? I'm wondering about the value for money and if the 70 cc upgrade offers significant advantages over the 50 cc. What are your thoughts on starting out with 70 cc?
I'd appreciate your advice so I don't end up regretting a second-hand Vespa purchase online. Thanks for your insights!
I came across your channel when I was in the market for a used scooter. I found one on CL a 2005 ET4 with 1900 miles. Garage kept and very clean. I paid $1500 for it. The scooter has been well taken care of. I know because of the age it will need some maintenance. After watching this video I know it will probably need tires even though it has been in a garage it's entire life. I noticed the fuel gauge is not accurate. Could that be from not much use? Do you have videos on how to trouble shot that? I will also be looking for any videos you may have on tune ups or overhauling the carb. Thanks for sharing your knowledge. I look forward to seeing all your videos so I can do the majority of the service to this little gem I purchased.
Great video. Wish it was uploaded a year ago when i decided to resurrect my 2002 ET4 after 17 years shed storage. May i ask, what exhaust upgrade would you recommend? And when will you upload your video for the install ;-)
Not too much available for the ET4, but we do offer a Sito plus (www.scooterwest.com/sito-plus-et4-lx-150-perfomamce-muffler-sito-et4.html) and a PM Tuning (www.scooterwest.com/pm-tuning-pm56-et4-lx150-and-s150-exhaust-pipe-pmex-et.html). Check out any of our other exhaust install videos and it should be enough to get you through it... Thanks for watching!
Great video. Could you do similar video for 5-10yr old fi gts/similar non barn find ?
I like the video but you forgot to mention that Vespa tends to rust, especially on bottom. This can be checked just looking under it. Regards
It really depends on your location. Even here in a coastal area, we don't really experience that issue.
Excellent Review . 4/15/2024
At 8:47 - the specs of the cheaper Piaggio-branded battery seems suspiciously identical to the Yuasa battery. Might these be coming out of the same factory?
Great guy and love his thorogh review
Is there a way to cap off speedo drive gear hole? I cannot get mine to stay in?
Also can u do a video on rear wheel bearing replacement please?
I got it as is no warrant after i got it home I took a good look on had hole in side the trunk & took it a part check drive belt & rollers it was crack flat one side on belt & rollers was flat on side plus air filter was dry out and rotten! Plus lot of wires unhook & master key was missing & tilt sensor unplug! I got it running i till got lot work to do on it but started look good!!
Consider the et2 ,70cc dr with right gearing and sito exhaust.The 2 stroke demolishes the et 4 in cost and long therm economics.While it can easily (and dremel cheap)achieve the performance of a et4 150 .
Its easy to tune and cheaper - yes,but with that setup its not strong enough to beat a Vespa ET4 150. Its a close race in low speed,but the 150 is far faster.
I agree. Way cheaper to insure too, and that glorious 2t smell. It'll be higher strung (over 9500rpm's, if you're doing it right). A built et2, can easily match a stock et4.
@@Kenneth86666 Get in buddy ;) i had the help of german vespa forum.Around 15 hp and a fuel consumption around 4 litres worst case.A Gearing as long to the moon and back.And a lot of joy. she is now around 1,5 times around the equator.She will be at 2,5 in 18 months.And i thrust her to never give up.In top speed, my gps after crank change and last detail(21mm carb and engine halfs flowing) will absolutely above 115kph (around 68 mph) on straights.Acceleration with 102kg vs 150kg will do the rest
@@ajwasp3642 I go for the dremel and low rev with very high torque, to beat the weakness of fuel consumption.Adjusted with a long stroke 44mm crank you also can get a very nice efficiency with the DR evo unplugged and bored to 4th oversize (85,04 cc)Rpm cruising will be around 8000@62mph. Under full acceleration maybe 9000-9500.The original exhaust(sito plus without catalyst) keeps the powerband quite low,but you can use the weakness to get the torque up.
I bought an ET4 with 7000 miles paid £500 and spent well over £500 on parts but that included powder coating the wheels and Michelin tyres.
Still loving my ET4 and now have a PX125 as well, careful out there Vespas are addictive. 😂
Broken mirror? Does one of them look good? Most states u just need one. If no then for now u can ghetto rig the mirror to look ok for now.
Great info, Thanks.🤘🏽🔥🔥🔥
You bet!
Thanks. I'm looking at a 2007 GTS.
Someone is selling a 2001 ET 4 in great shape with 1300 miles new tires and battery gas gauge doesn’t work for $2700 is that a decent price?
What would you consider "high miles" on a older modern vespa?
Yeah, my $85.00 basket case (ET2) is all disassembled, cleaned, and in big plastic bins, at the moment. Slowly acquiring parts, as cheap ones can be found. It should cost me as much as my $200 1960 Motobecane av88 did, to restore. All work being done by myself. Thinking about buying a cosmetically sound, but blown 2010 S150. Case is cracked. Yay, or nay at $300?
Curious, why did you use the ac function on the fluke instead of dc?
Very informative, thank you.
I have a silver ET4 that l just restored and it’s a 2001 do they have different carbs to the lx 150cc nice video 👍😎
How can you tell the difference between a 2 and a 4 and which letter or number in the VIN denotes the year
Just an FYI but when checking voltage make sure you are on the DC range and not AC (~) 😊
Great video. Thanks.
Glad you liked it!
Nice Video!
"I hope you dont snif it for a living " 16:15 😂😂🤣
Thank you! U rock!
You're welcome!
Hi-as a Vespa P200E fanatic mainly because they are ultra reliable-i would like your honest opinion as to whether you think the GTS 300 are as reliable as a 1980 P200E was ? I have never rode a GTS 300 or even an automatic scooter before but they are growing on me but as i do a lot of Scooter Rally's all over the UK I need excellent reliability like my P200E's have had. Many thanks- Alan
I would never go for an acid battery in scooters. They really lack some kick for the starter in my experience. I prefer gel batteries myself. For my mother her scooter (not Piaggo but a Peugeot) I got an Accurat Sport YTX5L-BS 5Ah 100A 12V battery, and that GY6 engine just keeps turning over without the battery going flat on you.
Which I need to do if the scooter has been sitting still over the summer holidays for example and all the fuel evaporates out of the carborator and fuel lines. Since it's a vacuum operated ideal you just need to keep cranking to pull that vacuum on the vacuum operated gas valve until the carborator is filled up and starts spraying again.
After that you just keep the engine running for 5 minutes and slowly open up the gas until it seems as if all air is out of the lines, then go for a drive of 5-10 minutes until it responds properly again to throttle input.
Heys guys, which is better? The ET4 or LX150?
i wish i would have your experience!!
At 2:57 - I find it amusing (in a sad-clown way) that most forgotten scooters in California garages and back yards have about $1000 in back registration fees and fines. It is *always* $1k because there is a 3 year limit so that's the max. These no-start 15-20 y/o scooters with original tires/clogged carbs/dead batteries are only worth $1k in their current condition, so the $1k in back registration fees and fines that the buyer MUST PAY effectively totals the scooter and makes it toxic. I guess you can simply not bother asking for the title and drive with expired tags or title in another state (I heard Vermont will title anything). I recently purchased a stolen police recovery 2018 Liberty 150 with $13,000 in tow yard fees after the lien released to the tow yard. Tow yards charge $90/day and it was towed Oct 2022. I purchased it March 2023. To be clear --- the crime victim STILL owes the $13k minus the price I paid the tow yard. That means the first owner will have paid $15,700 for his or her Liberty 150 in total. This could happen to a buyer in California that doesn't register their scooter and gets towed by the parking meter police.
Hey I have a 2005 B V-200 and I wanted to know how can I get a maintenance book for it. And how much would it cost to get the extra set of keys made.
robot i want to buy a new vespa but im very worried about rust how can i avoid that?
Got barn find vespa piaggio 50cc no keys lost spark on me cant figure loom out please help
Do you recommend any reputable dealers or places that sell vespas?
I have 07 lx150 I got in trade it's been sitting it has keys but is the immobilizer in the keys
Hey Robot, when are you going to address the issue on the rusting problems Vespas that doesn't to happen on any of my motorcycles? Piaggio and the dealers decided it's the customers problem. Where's the quantity control on the 300 models from the factory and Piaggio not fixing the root problem? This keeps me from buying a new 300gts if this happens to my scooter that I paid over $7300 base price, over $8500 out the door?
I got a nice 2005 it runs super. 1600 miles. Looking to ditch the alien eye mirrors for regular Vespa long stems like on my 300 GTi.
Thanks for sharing!!!! SUB and LIKED!!!
My piaggio engine has a new cylinder installed but now it doesnt even start. new gaskets too, it sounds healthy when the automatic start is engaged, it has spark (new sparkplug) and fuel, but it doesnt start anyways, help?
is there anyway to change the decal on the right side of a gts 300 2020 (on the right side theres a chrome decal that says "gts super" or something, anyway to change that to a chrome vespa logo like on the left side)? i have a 2020 notte, if that helps..
We sell all the replacements badges. You can easily remove that Super badge and replace with the Vespa badge from the other side. www.scooterwest.com/vespa-chrome-badge-sticker-4-inch-620530.html
We also offer it in a black chrome finish which would look cool on the Notte: www.scooterwest.com/black-vespa-badge-for-gts-super-sport-edition-side-cowl-672061.html