The usefulness of an electric water pump on water -cooled scooters such as the Piaggio Zip SP and Gilera Runner
If you are a fan of scooters such as the Piaggio ZIP SP or the Gilera Runner, then you know that performance, reliability and cooling are essential - especially when your scooter is increased or drives under heavy conditions. One of the most popular upgrades at water -cooled scooters is replacing the original mechanical water pump with a electric water pump. But why would you do that? What exactly are the benefits? We explain it in this blog.
What does a water pump do on a scooter?
With water -cooled scooters, a water pump ensures that the coolant circulates through the engine block and the radiator. This helps to keep the engine temperature stable, preventing overheating. Standard scooters are usually equipped with a mechanical water pump It is powered by the crankshaft. Simple and effective, but not ideal for every situation.
What is an electric water pump?
A electric water pump Is a loose pump that is not driven by the engine itself, but by electricity - usually via the battery or voltage regulator of the scooter. These pumps are more compact, lighter and can work independently of the engine speed.
The benefits of an electric water pump
1. Better temperature control
An electric pump runs at a constant speed or can even be sent via a thermostat. This means that the coolant flows through the system much more consistently, which ensures a more stable engine temperature - also during idle rotation or when driving slowly.
2. Regardless of engine speed
A mechanical pump provides less cooling capacity at low revs and more than necessary at high revs. An electric pump remains efficient, regardless of whether your scooter just starts or at full speed.
3. Less mechanical resistance
Because the engine no longer has to drive the pump, less power is lost to mechanical parts. That means a lighter load on the engine and sometimes even a little extra power.
4. Better performance with tuned scooters
With staged ZIP SPs and runners that generate a lot of heat, extra cooling is not a superfluous luxury. An electric pump helps to keep the temperature under control, even with high loads or longer journeys.
5. Simple installation and maintenance
With many models, the electric pump can be placed outside the engine block, which simplifies maintenance. Moreover, you can replace a defective pump faster without opening the entire block.
Who is an electric water pump suitable for?
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Tuning lovers: If you have your scooter with a 70cc cylinder or other performance -increasing upgrades, an electric pump is almost indispensable.
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Racing: For circuit use, temperature control is crucial - an electric pump offers serious benefits here.
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Daily traffic: Even for commuting in print city traffic, it offers more certainty and less risk of overheating.
Note when installing
An electric water pump must be correctly connected to the electrical system. Often a relay or switch is needed to prevent the pump from running continuously when the scooter is off. Also note the correct flow rate (flow), so that the pump can move enough coolant for your cylinder capacity and setup.
Conclusion
An electric water pump is not a gimmick, but a smart upgrade that significantly improves the cooling of your water -cooled scooter. Certainly with models such as the Piaggio ZIP SP or Gilera Runner, which are often tuned or used intensively, it offers more control, less wear and better performance. Whether you are driving for fun, for your work or on the circuit, staying cool is always a good idea.