Copyright © 2001 by Lambretta Club of Scotland. All rights reserved.

Problem

Blown headlight bulb (12v only)

Actual/common cause

Loose connection/vibration/wear and tear/regulator failure

Solution

It's now a legal requirement in most countries to carry a full set of spare bulbs but they have been known to break in your toolbox. Even after you've managed to get to a service your toolbox. Even after you've managed to get to a service station, you're unlikely to find the right bulb for sale but will find plenty headlamp bulbs for cars.

To avoid causing more heat/damage than necessary to the holder and/or lens pick the lowest wattage available.

Bend the two spring arms (main beam and dip) over into the bulb-holder and jam the car bulb in allowing one of the arms to make contact with a terminal on the bulb.

Complications

As one of the spring arms is effectively earthed, you will have to pick either main or dip to be permanently on. Dip is the obvious choice but can be tricky for country roads. If you must use main beam then lower your lens angle as much as you can.

Podgiest bodge

Reversing stripped/worn barrel/exhaust studs can get you home. Clean them up as best you can and employ some Loctite. Be prepared for major repairs to crankcase when renewing the studs!