hard to start Vespa when warm

[Aboriginal Vespa Rider]

James Taylor wrote:
>
> I just bought a '64 Allstate 125. It starts on the first or second kick
> when cold and seems to run fine other than it doesn't want to idle.
> Once it dies it is often VERY difficult to start. If I pull out the
> spark plug for a minute or two it starts first crank when I replace the
> plug. Any suggestions!?!?

easy: your spark plug runs to hot. i can only give you advice on BOSH
plugs
though (yes, i'm a kraut). e.g. you have a W6AC (or CC), then you'll
need a W5AC.
i suppose your spark plug is just fucked. get a W5AC (or CC, AC if short
thread,
CC if long thread, take it to the dealer, he'll know).
-arne.

[Mondo]

James- It *sounds* like there may be trouble with your ignition system, mainly the
coil or condensor. These two parts will sometimes work just fine until they warm up
or are put under load. The condensor also has the characteristic of causing the
motor to backfire when it is going bad. It could also be flooding out since you say
that it fires back up after pulling out the plug. I would check the float and
needle in the carb (best bet would be to rebuild it) and give the bike a good
tune-up.
-- Armando

[Superstude]

I've had this problem on all my Vespas, it seems to be caused by the carb
boiling over on a hot engine and flooding the crankcase. The cure is to
shut off the gas tap well before shutting off the engine, that way there is
little gas in the carb to boil over. Then just turn on the gas when you
come back, wait a short time and the bike should start ok. I am working on
a way to insulate the carb to reduce that problem. My first scooter was a
64 Allstate 125, I got it as a basket case in 1970 , restored it and rode
it for many years. Except for that flooding problem it was a good scoot. Enjoy!