1 reply to this topic

[rlafash]

i own a 1997 SeaDoo Challenger 1800 with less then 100 hours. Upon pulling the boat for winter storage last November, i experienced two issues. The boat had been on its jet port and had not been started or run for about two months. Upon start up the left, port engine, fired and idled fine. However, the right, starboard engine, was hard to start and once it did start it backfired and blew a bit of white smoke until I got out of the marina and was able to give both engines more power. Once the engines were both powered up above 2K rpm, both engines ran smoothly. we pulled the boat and upon winterizing the engines that evening, the right, starboard engine again backfired and smoke as it had done earlier that day. Am I looking at fouled plugs or should I be looking for something else before launching this spring?

The second issue that i encountered when pulling the boat that day was difficulity engaging reverse. I was able to engage reverse, however, it required several attempts. I removed the right, starboard reverse gate and found the reverse lever to be like new, no evidence of any wear. Any advise what else to look for?

[BigWayne]

The reverse issue is most likely due to a damaged reverse cable. The best way to inspect this is to remove the shifter assembly and look over the reverse linkages for any damage or binding.

Second, look at the reverse cable assembly at the thru hull location. Make sure you see full and free travel from the cable when moving the shifter from forward to reverse.

Last, if everything else looks fine, check the reverse buckets and thier respective interconnections.

SBT has reverse cables in stock, if the reverse cable has become worn beyond repair. The replacement procedure is not complex, but you will have to stand on your head to complete the removal/addition of the thru-hull section.