I have been sans-scooter for over a year. I made it out to the first night of Scoot-a-que 12 (Sept, 2009) and she died on the way home. Since then, it seems like everything that could possibly go wrong, has. The biggest source of the problem is that the previous owner thought it a good idea to tune it beyond it's designed capabilities. Aftermarket engine upgrades, exhaust, upgraded carb, were taking it's toll. So my mechanic, Kris, suggested we take the bike back to stock. So, he did. Since Sept 2009 the following has been replaced:
Crankshaft
Clutch basket
Clutch springs
Clutch plates
Flywheel
Fly side crank bearing
Clutch side crank bearing
Fly side crank seal
Clutch side crank seal
Flywheel woodruff key
Clutch woodruff key
1st oversized piston
Cylinder bored to match piston
Complete engine gasket kit
Stock stella catalyzed exhaust
Rewired stator
She now runs beautifully, quieter, not quite as peppy as it was before. But, if I really wanted a fast bike I wouldnt have bought a 30 year-old Vespa. It's nice to have her back.
Thanks Kris!