Scootering

EXHAUSTING ISSUES

The Lambretta exhaust system is a simple two-piece design compromising the downpipe and box section, so why is it so difficult to stop it coming loose? There are various reasons forth is and none more so than the way Innocenti made it in the first place. It is vitally important for the exhaust to remain airtight to prevent the spent gases escaping from anywhere else than the end of the tailpipe. The problem is if it does come loose then running issues occur and quite often that's exactly what happens.

Downpipe

Starting at the engine end, you have a downpipe that sits flush against the cylinder. There is no recess for the pipe to sit into, just two small 7mm studs to hold it flat against the surface. In between sits a small copper gasket to create the perfect seal. If one of the nuts securing it in place does come loose, gas will escape from this area. This is instantly recognisable as the engine will run erratically at low revs and it will be impossible to set a correct tick over. It doesn't help that the exhaust port faces the floor, which seriously hampers the ground clearance.

A point

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from Scootering

Scootering2 min read
The Fenwick Lambrettas That Was Then... French Production Deviations
A good example of the diversity in local design changes in French production is the horncasting, of which there were at least four different variants. This may seem illogical but was in fact forced on the company from the start of production, as ther
Scootering3 min read
Round The Bend
I recently took a friend to watch his very first scooter racing practice session. “You guys are f&*^ing crazy” was his opinion. Over the years he’s ridden bikes and did briefly own a scooter. Riding a scooter is easy, but he thought riding one extrem
Scootering3 min read
Viva la Vespa Festival, Thailand 2024
During my time in Thailand I had the opportunity to visit some friends, Vespa enthusiasts and business partners, for example Lome from Vintage Vespa Thai/Auu Vespa and Kittisak from Lady Bug Scooter. Their warmth and hospitality are unrivalled and I

Related