1961 Vespa Douglas with Sidecar revival!
Finally after much frustration and hair loss the 1961 Vespa Douglas Scooter and Sidecar restoration problem looks like it has been resolved. This vehicle was bought about 5 years ago and since has had a complete strip down and rebuild. A paint match close to the original was used and professional respray done. The engine has also been fully rebuilt using original parts.
This scooter is almost completely original. It was taken for an MOT in 2013 and despite all the hard work failed on one issue the front headset having too much play in the frame. This was removed and another new headset bought from a reputable scooter parts supplier. Unfortunately there was still too much play meaning that it looked like the scooter may need some welding or even cutting and a new front frame piece fitting. After much further trial and error it was found that the problem was that the after market headset race was incorrect. I had been supplied a race headset undersized which was why it was spinning in the frame and causing unnecessary play.
This highlights a key problem faced by restorers today. Many original parts are just not available any more as companies close down or run out stock and much of the knowledge is also disappearing as many friends in the industry are no longer with us. Any doubts just check, check and check again the parts you buy. The internet also now provides many resources such as forums and you tube videos where support is available. If you know of problem tell the supplier, I would rather know of an issue so that I can put it right.
The simplest of problems has kept this bike off the road too long and it wont be beat! Such a pretty thing this should be used:-
Please keep an eye on my blog as once the scooter side car combination assembly has been fitted and this is back on the road, I am sure there will be some interesting stories to tell!
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