LCGB Forums

Hi Guys, what is the best way to keep a check on your gear box oil levels, and how often would you check it. I have a 1966 LI 125 ser 3 which has done just short of 500 miles on a new engine rebuild and due an oil change. Cheers

If it isn't leaking or smoking badly then the level isn't gonna change really.
Easiest way to check is with the scoot level on the stand and remove the oil level plug. If it starts to come out, then it's got enough. Else, tilt the scoot over to the right hand side a little to see if the oil starts to flow out and judge it from there as to whether it needs a top up or not.

Or you can get one of those oil level plug with a sight glass in it, quick n simple check

As FnF says, just pop the level plug out (10mm Allen Key) and with the scoot on level ground the oil should be level with the bottom of the hole. Bare in mind that the oil gets splashed all over the inside of the case, chain, gears and clutch so you should give it a while to drain down before checking. If I cant see oil trying to seap out I just insert a finger and if I dont feel any I top up until it starts the run out.

I havn't come across the sight glasses mentioned but concidering that the level is supposed to be level with the bottom of the hole, you would need to overfill by quite a bit in order to see a level

Cheers guys, much appreciated.

If you really want a sight glass, even though as other posters have noted the correct oil level will not seen go to a David Brown/
Case tractor dealer and ask for a transmission sight glass for a 1212 1976/80. It is round and with only a small amount reamed out the level plug hole it will fit with a bit of sealant.

Maybe some of those sight glasses are better than others?
The one I have in my TS1 is useless.
You live and learn.

Still using the same one that we all got in a Euro goodie bag from Tino’s Stash.
Also use the ones from Oiltek, again no issues

I can't see how a sight glass on the level plug can be of any use as to see oil in it would mean you've got too much oil in the engine but to answer the question to change the oil make sure you warm the scoot up first then put a block under the stand to tip it over, check for metal filings on the drain plug there will be a small deposit on a new build but if there's a lot then something's rubbing inside. I always run a little bit of fresh oil through the engine before putting the drain plug back in then get the scoot nice and level remove the level plug and put the fresh oil in once it starts coming out the level plug hole put the plug back in replace the filler/breather cap (making sure it's not blocked) then you're done. Sorry if I'm teaching your granny to suck eggs!!

Hi guys, this is my first Lambretta and I am finding my way round this iconic machine. The advice I get from you experienced scooterists is very much appreciated. Thanks.

[quote="missing lynx"]I can't see how a sight glass on the level plug can be of any use as to see oil in it would mean you've got too much oil in the engine.


I just make sure that I can see oil just creeping into the glass section, I doubt if 25cc of extra oil is gonna do any damage and if the oil does rise then I have a oil filter breather with long tube like I’ve said mines been on my engine for 4 years and ain’t popped a seal yet everyone is different on what setup they like, some like too get the tool out and check, I like too get on my knees for a quick second check, job done. Start engine and off we go