Its simplicity and accessibility made the moped a popular vehicle. A vehicle that everyone could own. Therefore, for a long time it was easy to find used mopeds from the 60s and 70s at an affordable price. But classic moped models that used to be common are now becoming harder to find. Especially in good condition. Interest in restoring old mopeds like the Puch Dakota, Puch Florida or Zündapp KS 50 is growing, but it’s not always easy to find the right parts and manuals. That’s why we talked to Classic Motor’s veteran mechanic Jim Lundberg about what you need to consider for your renovation project.
– In simple terms, this interest could be divided into four categories, apart from nostalgia and community. Some just want to pull something together to be able to drive, some want to make the moped better than new, without the slightest error. Others want to build custom with long forks and some trim to make it go fast. I myself belong to those who want to pull something together to drive. I’m a repairman – not a renovator,” says Jim Lundberg.
– Those looking for original parts are keen to get their hands on N.O.S. (new old stock). You can find that sometimes if you’re lucky – for example, a saddle for a Puch Dakota that has never been used, or parts for a Crescent in original condition. Some people put together mops with those parts and then sell really expensive.
What parts do you usually need to replace on an older vintage moped?
– On older mopeds, I would change the tires and tubes because they can be full of cracks. The tires can also become very hard and slippery because the rubber ages that way. Therefore, you should invest in new tires, even if you are looking for original condition and really want N.O.S. stuff. Then you can check the muffler yourself and make sure it is clean and free of soot. You can easily do that at home!
Where to start if you have bought a vintage moped?
– I would start by doing a service and an oil change. Then you probably need an instruction manual, which is usually available on Tradera. Then you find out how the ignition should stand, what oil you should have in and tire pressure. It may sound trivial, but it is a simple thing to review at the beginning. If the mop works, just drive, but if there is any noise, it is always good to check inside. If the engine rattles, it is the one you should take apart.
What common problems can you encounter and how do you solve them?
– Common are different types of electrical problems, that you can not get things started and do not get any spark on the pin. Then it is usually the ignition coil and the switches inside the engine that are in trouble. They age with time. Sometimes you may have bought a moped and then it stops after a few days, then it is usually electrical problems and that parts of the engine need to be replaced. The gas tank and carburetor may also need cleaning.
How do you decide which spare parts to buy?
– If there are missing spare parts, a spare parts catalog is great to buy. Since it is old stuff in the catalog, the numbering is no longer current, but the pictures are good for reference. Then you can, for example, see a picture of a cover or a certain piston and look for it when you are looking for parts both at markets or online.
Are original parts better?
– More often than not, that’s the case. In the past it was much better, but today many of the copies have caught up and become almost as good as the original. But in general, you can say that what is on the outside is more important to have in the original because it is visible, the stuff on the inside may not matter quite as much.
Jim Lundberg’s four tips for those who grumble:
- Keep in mind that the more common your moped is, the easier it is to find different parts. If you only get two hits when you google, it’s probably much harder to find parts for your moped.
- An essential tool for tinkering with ignition parts is a flywheel puller. It’s essential – so don’t try to break off the flywheel with a hammer and crowbar! You’re guaranteed to break something.
- You don’t really need many other special tools – but if you’re changing a tire, for example, you’ll need a tire iron. Don’t use sharp chisels or you’ll accidentally puncture the inner tube.
- A common question is usually what oil to use. If you have a manual gearbox, it’s not that important, most things usually work. But if you have an automatic gearbox, you should use automatic gearbox oil, otherwise it just slips.
