2016 tao tao fix or part out?

[benhonda]

I just picked up a 2016 tao tao with 12k miles on the clock

It currently starts up and will stay running, previous owner said it would only do about 10mph and that there was a belt issue.

pull off the cover, everything has a layer of oil on it!

Pulled off the variator and I can wiggle the shaft a mm or 2.  I'm guessing that this means the bearing is bad?

I assume that what I can see next to the shaft is just the oil seal right?  I'd have to split the case to replace the bearing?

If that is what has to be done, I'm not sure I want to put that much into it.  It does have an aftermarket muffler, working carb, good brakes and a few other parts I could use on other bikes, but I was originally planning on making a Mini Bike out of it.

[jackrides]

Engine does need a rebuild. Crank bearings, seals, probably top end also. Looks good though. Decide.

[90GTVert]

With the issues described and mileage, you may want to see what you can get a crate engine for or if you can find a low mileage scoot cheap used with body damage or something. It's either that or work on it. That sort of miles is going to have wear and tear on multiple things so you may be able to get it going and replace the bearings/crank, but it would likely benefit from a full inspection and service including the gearbox as well. A pile of parts can sometimes cost more than a whole engine.

[benhonda]

Jan 29, 2020 14:30:56 GMT -5 90GTVert said:

With the issues described and mileage, you may want to see what you can get a crate engine for or if you can find a low mileage scoot cheap used with body damage or something. It's either that or work on it. That sort of miles is going to have wear and tear on multiple things so you may be able to get it going and replace the bearings/crank, but it would likely benefit from a full inspection and service including the gearbox as well. A pile of parts can sometimes cost more than a whole engine.

Yeh, I felt like mileage might mean it wouldn't be worth doing the job to replace the bearings.  I've bought probably 10 50cc bikes, and the next highest mileage one I bought had 10k miles.  Most had 4-6k miles. 

It is a shame, I she fires right up.  But a crank bearing & seal kit is $30...and as you said, might as well replace the piston/rings/seals at the same time.  I had planned on turning it into a mini bike (which would only cost about $50) and then selling it for a small profit.  If I have to put almost $100 in parts to rebuild the motor and then another $50 to turn into a mini bike then it wont be worth it.

Also, the pics I posted doing show that the front plastics are damaged, headlight is missing.  If the front end was good, then maybe it would be worth the rebuild to sell as a fully running, road worthy machine.

But the exhaust can find a home on my ATV trike at least.  I will save the key switch, brakes, wheels/tires, starter parts, carb ect.  I only paid $50 for it, so not really a loss.

[GrumpyUnk]

I like fiddling with them, so would consider a different path. I'd order stuff from the Far East, crankshaft, gasket & seal set, and likely a 72cc BBK. I'd get bearing sizes for the crankshaft, and check with Fastenal for prices. Shipping to a local store is very inexpensive, and their prices are reasonable.
You do not need anything besides crank bearings and a gasket set, actually. The connecting rod bearing could be fine as it is right there in the spray pattern of the oil pump, closer than the main bearing. A low-budget BBK can be had, cylinder, rings, wrist pin & clips, gaskets, for about $25. A gasket set and seals can be found, sometimes on sale, for $5. I haven't looked recently, but have one in a box in the basement I got on sale for just a few bucks.
If you are not into doing engines, look for a donor that has made impact with an unforgiving object, or you can get a complete brand new 139QMB for ~$240 if you look.
One other alternative is to replace the belt, and see how it runs. It could be the bearing clearance will be taken up by the CVT and it will work reasonably well without doing anything beyond a new belt.
If the engine doesn't knock or bang when running, give it a whirl. Don't spring for a Gates or Bando with kevlar... get a $2 belt from dabay or dariver.
tom

[tas50]

would make a perfect pit bike at the track. Not sure where you’re from but I’d look for a donor motor. Those Tao’s are pretty much dime a dozen.

[larryhobman]

For me, if they have a title then fix it. No title I take them apart and use for parts. I just picked up a new scoot yesterday no title so more parts going in my collection.

[GrumpyUnk]

I just noted the presence of a spring/shock on the muffler side of the engine. That means it is a later design, and likely a better machine than some older models. I think I would consider a transplant from an older machine if I had the newer available.
I also noted the diameter of the front brake disk. Sure looks to me as if it has a pretty good sized disk, which is superior in heat dissipation than the older models. Just another reason to consider making this a runner rather than a parts machine.
If you have no experience in splitting the case, you can use this as a learning tool, and source the parts at the lowest cost as suggested previously, and swap in another engine for good or until you would get done with the repairs. There are many sources stateside if you happen to live there. And aliexpress or ebay/amazon can deliver to your door all that you would need.
tom