How to Troubleshoot Poor Running Jet Skis

Jet Skis need to be maintained on a regular basis.

Jet Ski riding is an extremely popular recreational sport. Because the Jet Ski is used in a wet environment, it is subject to problems associated with wet environments such as corrosion. The Jet Ski can be brought into a shop for servicing but the cost of repairs can be high. Use a few simple techniques to troubleshoot a poorly running Jet Ski, saving the cost of having a professional determine the problem.

Things You'll Need

• Wooden paint paddle
• Wire brush
• White cotton rags
• Screwdrivers
• Carburetor cleaner

Instructions

1. 

   Always check the battery for corrosion.

   Examine the battery. Batteries exposed to wet conditions suffer from corrosion problems, especially at the battery's terminals. Remove the battery compartment cover. Disconnect the black and red battery cables. Use a wire brush to clean off any corrosion from the terminals and the cable clamps. Wipe off any additional corrosion from the battery with a rag.

2. 

   Use a paint paddle as a gas tank dipstick.

   Check the fuel level. Place the key into the ignition. Turn the key clockwise until the electrical system is engaged. The fuel tank indicator will automatically register the amount of fuel in the tank on the gauge. The tank should be at least ¼ full. Make sure the fuel line's valve is open. If no gauge is available, remove the gas cap and check the tank's gas level using a wooden paint paddle as a dipstick.

3. 

   Stringy material in the sediment bowl can mean fuel line problems.

   Inspect the sediment bowl. Attached to the fuel line, between the gas tank and the engine, is a sediment bowl. The bowl collects sediment from the gas tank and prevents it from going into the engine where it will cause severe damage. Unscrew the plastic bowl from the fuel line coupler. Check the bowl's content. If there is a stringy orange substance in the bowl, the fuel lines are starting to go bad and should be replaced.

4. 

   A low oil level will affect the motor's performance.

   Check the oil level. The oil tank is located near the top of most Jet Ski engines. Access the engine compartment. Unscrew the cap from the top of the oil tank. Wipe the dip stick off with a rag. Screw the top back in and start the engine for 30 seconds. Turn the engine off and check the oil level on the dip stick. Pour a few drops of the oil onto a white rag. If the oil is dark and filled with sediment, replace the oil.

5. 

   Spark plugs must be clean for maximum engine performance.

   Inspect the plug wiring and spark plugs. Corrosion and debris from exposure can create a barrier on the spark plug that affects performance. Remove the plug wire from the spark plug. Check the tip of the spark plug for corrosion. Use a rag to wipe off the tip. Inspect the plug wire and clean off any corrosion inside of the connection point. Repeat the process for each spark plug and plug wire.

6. Examine the carburetor. Over time, dirt and debris will build up in the carburetor, causing it to stick. Access the carburetor through the engine compartment. Take out the carburetor using a screwdriver to remove the mounting screws. Place the carburetor into a bucket and soak it with carburetor cleaner. After 4 hours, remove the carburetor, wipe it dry with a rag and replace it.

References

• Free Engine Info: Jet Ski Troubleshooting
• Small Engine Information: Outboards Ignition: Small Engine Information: 2011
• Sea-Doo: Fuel Systems and living with our PWCs: Sea-Doo: 1995-2010