Scooter Sometimes Starts

[zzaach]

I have a 2008 Piaggio Fly 4t. 2 weeks ago, I pulled the key out of the ignition and it didn't turn off. I tried the kill switch. It didn't work, and I smelled burning. I finally turned it off by putting the key back in and turning off.

It was working great after that, but 4 days ago it stopped turning on after a rainy day of riding (no power). I have been able to start it with the electric starter and kickstarter 3 times since. 2 of those 3 times, I had electricity. Each time was when it was nighttime and there was lots of condensation on the scooter.

I checked the battery's voltage and the fuse next to the battery, and both seemed ok. My scooter mechanic doesn't want to help, but he thinks it might be something with the ignition because there isn't a lot of resistance when you turn the key. What do you think it is and how should I fix it? I can't take it to a mechanic because the nearest one that will work on Piaggios is 60 miles away.

Many thanks,

Zach

[scooterted]

Sounds like ignition. I would pull it and inspect.

Wow your mechanic sucks.

[zzaach]

Thanks! I just ordered a new ignition key switch and will look at it tomorrow when I fight for my key back.

Yup. The only one in town too.

[GrumpyUnk]

Most scooter ignitions do two things: provide 12Vdc power to the gauges & other switched power items and the second is to un-ground the ignition. If you pull the connector from the ignition switch, you won't have the fuel gauge work, BUT you can kick start, and may or may not be able to kill the engine using the 'kill' switch, depending on the circuit wiring.
You can check the ignition switch terminals on most using a VOM. One pair will open, the other will close depending on which way you turn the switch. Most switches that are subject to water intrusion will not work as well. The water forms a 'possible' connection, depending on impurities, and can kill the ignition by partially grounding the signal(reducing it so much it won't work). Some fixes are to use a hair dryer to evaporate the water, and then adding external waterproofing. A plastic bag wrapped around the switch will keep out a lot of water. You can use a bag, or sheet, wrap it and use zip ties to hold it in place. It won't be perfect, but you can make it more effective by having the plastic 'droop' or tilted so water won't want to run downhill into its opening. One other problem with the Chinese machines is the brake switches are not waterproof, as I have seen many rusted to bits internally. They'll make the starter fail, and won't light up the brake light. Generally, if your brake light works properly, the circuit to the starter relay should be good, BUT, you can have power from the brake, ground from the starter button switch, and they must both be present to operate the starter relay. Other setups interrupt the power, etc etc etc.
tom

[pinkscoot]

Your problem is probably the switch at the back of your lock. If you pull your horn cover you can see it to the left. Here is a good source for it scooterpartsco.com/ricambi/021-vespa/ignition-switch-for-aprilia-piaggio?zenid=65f4c597b2c371076668164058c8ae2b. I had to replace the one on my BV250 and My GTS is on its way out. The warning signs are you turn the key and all is good then it all goes off until you turn it off and back on. They are simple to replace just pull the connector on the old one, pull the clip out and the switch comes right out. Put the clip in the new one then push it into place and reconnect the connector. I suggest you get a new clip just incase the old one goes flying. scooterpartsco.com/vespa/lx-50/lx-50-keys-and-locks/clip-for-ignition-switch?zenid=65f4c597b2c371076668164058c8ae2b

[zzaach]

I fixed it!

Thanks to everyone for you're help! The problem was the ignition switch which I was able to remove and replace from the front cover. The original part had the plastic connecting to the key cylinder torn up. The key clicks into place now when I twist it. Woo!