Piaggio Ape mechanical advice

[therollingbean]

Hello All!

Although not a scooter, I was wondering if there was anyone on here that knows of anyone in the Southend/Essex area that may be able to help me with some engine work on my 1982 50cc Piaggio Ape coffee van.

At current it does not run, I have managed to get it going with a push, however the gearing is terrible and the brakes non existent.

Ideally I need it to start, stop, change gear and go just to make my life easier when moving it around at events. 

The aim would be to have it road legal again, however, as a start driving would be great. 

Any advice, or help would be great

I have attached a photo of her, should you want an engine shot please let me know

Many thanks all 

Lee

[henri]

theres guys on the vespasmallframe forum who run n tune apes as the engines are practically the same , tho brakes n electrics differ to skoots,best askin there ,would love to have a crack at it myself but live in brighton , bit to far to commute to get cold n oily . H

[vespasco]

I like!
Coffee and 2 stroke! Hmmmmm

Ive often thought of running a business (of some sort) on one of those/similar. Although I'd have to kit it! Haha!

The basics:
Check for a strong spark.
Check fuel is getting to the plug.
If you have both it could be low compression (eg. Worn piston rings, leaks). Timing.
Check for signs of oil leaks, fuel leaks.

If you haven't already, give it a full service. Oil change, clean carb, jets, filter, exhaust, new plug, tighten brakes/inspect pads, etc,etc. If they spark via 'points' then check them and the gap.
All stuff you can do yourself with basic tools.

Best of luck