Printing this blog

If you are interested in printing out this entire blog, come back between March 17 - 20, 2008 and I will set it up so that ALL posts show. Then you can print it. It's 205 pages in length so far -- it's a freakin' book!

I tried to PDF it, but it would only capture three pages; therefore I believe that Blogger has software coding that does not allow this. This is a BIG bummer I think. There are 3rd party services you can hire or purchase their software to create a book from a blog, but that costs $25.

At some point in the future Blogger's network server could crash or something and I won't retype everything, so I do recommend printing yourself a hard copy.

The information in this blog is unlike any other I have come across yet and I encourage you to share it and distribute it as much as possible.

Note: your browser may freeze/crash because there is so much stuff on here. Also, when you print only the pictures will show up. Videos will have an empty frame. I was able to print out one copy of my blog.

If you prefer it digitally, you can PDF it but you have to capture each entry individually and I have nearly 150 posts.

Sediment Bowl

A gift goes out in the mail from Tom G. tomorrow.

A glass sediment bowl.

Thank you Tom G.!

Parts ordered

Just ordered the following parts from First Kick Scooters this afternoon. All parts are Piaggio-made or similar quality. I worked with David from First Kick on this and I must say it was one of the best experiences I have had with a scooter shop. He is knowledgeable and fast (I have waited for 1-3 weeks for orders to go out with other shops. David had my stuff out in 2 days). My order went out quick and he responded to me within 24-hours. I will be doing more business with First Kick. If you're frustrated with your shop, call First Kick and ask for David in parts -- you won't be sorry.

(47872) Center Stand Spring

(90541) Sheath for Gear Cables

(82783/174249) Grommet for Brake Switch in Black

(181637) Rear Brake Switch in Black

(113060) Grommet Fuel into Air Box

Total: $50.41 including shipping

Note: The rear brake switch was $23.95 as opposed to the $15 that all the scoot shops sell it for. I asked why . . . this brake switch is Piaggio and the after market ones are not sized correctly and are not truly grey -- they have a funky magenta tinge to them.

Finishing up the headset & steering column

While waiting on the grommets to arrive we can finish up the steering column/headset assembly.

Here's what needs to happen:

1. Brake & clutch levers need to be sanded smooth (nicks and chips and scratches) with super SUPER super fine (wet) sandpaper and finished off with a steel wool pad. And then polished. I need to buy a polish. * The same needs to happen for the kick start lever.

2. Using a tap & dye set . . . the threads for the clutch lever housing need to be cleaned up. Blue Locktite on the lever screw threads may be required when the lever is installed. We can reuse the original washers and the new clutch lever screw. **** Remember the advice I got from BBS is that the clutch lever housing was NOT threaded and it was recommended that I tap the lever screw out. It WAS THREADED! When seeking advice ALWAYS check with at least 2-3 sources before acting. I will not make that mistake again! Also, there are a few on BBS that know actually know what they are talking about. Meet them and keep in contact with them and eventually you will learn who you can trust.

3. The brake lever housing threads in the headset need the paint cleaned off for the hardware to fit. Maybe use tap and dye set.

4. I ordered a new speedo lens. Very carefully the speedo bezel needs to be removed and then the entire speedo needs to be hand cleaned as does the bezel. I have a new lens and seals coming along with a new speedo cable. Then the speedo needs to be greased and installed.

5. Hand grips can be installed. And the clutch and throttle rods can be installed into the headset and cable ends attached.

6. The headset is brand new and came with hardware. Ted and I need to determine if any wiring is required. Does the bulb Ted bought fit?

7. Did Ted buy a speedo bulb?

8. I still need to purchase the high beam indicator light and then the headset and steering column will be 100% complete.