Replacement Parts (Non MZ)

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There are many parts, that may be cheaper, easier to obtain or better quality, that the intrepid MZ'er can use to replace genuine MZ parts.

A few example are listed below.

Air Filter

A paper filter from a 1098cc Morris Minor (1963-1971) will fit TS 250/1 and ETZ 250 with a simple bit of trimming. Using a very sharp knife enlarge the centre hole and shave off the circular ridge around the hole. Compare with the original.
These work well, are cheaper and usually better quality. Check the spark plug as they allow the bike breathe better.

For ES 250/2 models the above works, but so does the filter for a Yamaha FZR 600.

Points and Condenser

Pattern points are made for Wartburg cars, which are a lot cheaper (the parts not the cars!). Wartburgs, being East German, use the same ignition system.
Points Part No.s
Intermotor - 23950
Lucas - DSB 955

Although it has been recently pointed out to me that these are now more expensive than the original MZ parts. Oh Well!

Seals and Bearings

Your local bearing factors can supply at, reduced cost, better quality bearings and seals. The crankcase seals on the MZ are an unusual size, but a common seal which is only 1mm thicker (external and internal diameter is the same) can be used. It does mean, however, not replacing the bearing circlips, but I've never experienced one moving. The worst that can happen is a loss of compression.

12v Indicator Relays

A standard 2 pin 12 v relay from a Mini, Marina, Escort etc. can be used. Cheaper and less fragile.

James Mather makes the following observation:
"Can't use Mini type flasher unit with the indicators which use 5 watt bulbs (ETZ251 and Kanuni) because there isn't enough power drain to heat the unit up. Can't fit 21 watt bulbs which would make it work because the glass bit is too big. I tried all over the place to get a flasher unit which worked and had to fork out £6 for universal one only available from a bike shop. It works with 2 x 5watt and 2 x 21 watt."

There is also an electronic version (as opposed to the more usual electro-mechanical type), it's a Durite item, Part No. 0-744-12/2, available from any half decent auto-electrical retailer. Fitting is quite straightforward. A bit expensive, but consistent and reliable.

Headlamps

A Mini (car that is) sealed beam fits the headlamp rim on my ETZ251. Or for that matter most standard 7" car headlamp units. Much cheaper than a new genuine lamp especially if gotten from a scrappy with the associated wiring from the car so that you can still have a pilot lamp. The dipped beam goes to the left rather than straight down (not too bad), but otherwise, no problems.

Fuse Boxes

That good old MZ fuse box, placed so as to achieve maximum exposure to all the crud thrown up, does not last forever. Again cheaper and more water resistant versions are available from the local motor factor. Durite make a good one. It can also be an opportunity to re-site the box so as to protect it more from the elements.

Locking Petrol Caps

A locking cap for an Austin/Leyland Mini (Mk. 1 and 2), vented , this is important as otherwise you will suffer fuel starvation. Air can't get in to replace the fuel trying to get out of the tank. The cost is about £4.50. You will have to perform minor surgery to the rubber gasket, the MZ requires a thicker one than that supplied. If you've still got your original cap then squeeze that one's gasket in as well as the one supplied. It may be stiff at first but will soon bed in. You then have one theft proof filler cap, but unfortunately no measuring cup on the underside.

This is obviously not an exhaustive list. If you know of any other non MZ replacement parts or alternatives - Email Me.

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