Thanks for compliments Damo and NormK!
Damo, the photos hide some defects it must be said, so not really too good to use and I'm aiming for a paint durability test anyway! What better way than giving it to a kid? However the colour stands out, may be interesting to see what other parents/kids say when they see it. But before my 4 y.o. gets her hot little hands on it, I need to 'test ride' it first to ensure it's safe!
NormK, you're only as old as you feel...the fact you're on here says you're still bright and active! As for me, I've started late, as I do with most things.
Overall I'm actually pretty impressed with the scooter's engineering and design. It is relatively simple overall which enhances its durability I think.
And how many toys today can you buy that are almost exclusively made of metal (the plastics are truly only decorative) and made to be pulled apart and serviced?
When you try to 'pull it down' you find a surprising number of parts, some quite fiddly/intricate and none as simple as they may first appear. For example the base plate has fluting on the top, a box section underneath and rolled edges; the tubes have internal threads, springs, buttons protruding, cutouts and even lengthwise narrow channels; the headset/neck/hinge area has several parts of differing materials with narrow crevices to be accessed.
I also 'fish-oiled' the inaccessible internal bits. A mechanical check/lube also- that's all it needed. I even used at least 4 different lubricants in different spots- general bearing grease, MoS2 grease, white lithium grease and 'dry lube' w/ PTFE.
And The Cost? - $5 - Used, working scooter from recycling centre
- ~$120 - lots of spray paints- primers, topcoats- but none are emptied so I get to use 'em again
- $0 greases- already on the shelf
I'll try posting some photos of the actual painted bits soon.
