1994 speedster..should I?

[tk5150]

Hi all,

I am looking at getting a speedster to replace my stand up Kawi and my sit down Yamaha (family now). I don't have much experience wrenching on doo's but have a fair amount on Kawis and Yamaha's.

My question is I have com across a 1994 Speedster with 2 rebuilt engines (two 650x) but needs some electrical components the owner is calling the unit needed a "MORN". Now I have started to learn more about these boats (thanks to this forum!) and I think he means "MPEM". Would I be correct or did the 94 have a different setup?


Thanks All.....!


Derek

 

[shakedown]

If its the MPEM, they are hard to find, and if you find one you'll pay a good price for one. Also alot of parts for that boat have been discontinued and are very hard to find.

 

[Dr Honda]

Unless you are getting it cheap, and you like working on things... don't buy it.

We see this a lot here. The seller will claim that every thing has been rebuilt, but it won't start. (bad computer or battery) than once the problem is fixed... the rest of the problems come out.

I remember recently, that someone bought a ski with a bad battery, and a fresh rebuild. After a battery, AND a starter, it wouldn't run. Then we figure out that the "new" engine was dead.


Or better yet... last summer, a guy down in Aus bought a boat (not cheap) with the same scenario. He replaced the battery, and the engine ran perfect on the trailer, but wouldn't run in the water. He found it had low compression. After taking the engine apart, we discovered that he had 720 pistons in his 800 engine. (same bore, different stroke) So... then the shop who did the work for the original owner, wouldn't stand behind it. (they were in it together)

THEN, after a proper rebuild... we find out that the pump, and drive shaft seals all need rebuilt.


Moral of the story... buy it SUPER cheap, or take it for a test ride.

I wouldn't pay more than $1000 for it as a non-running boat. (and it would have to be in perfect cosmetic condition)

Honistly... it's worth more as parts.

 

[tk5150]

Thanks you doctor Honda...Sounds like good advice! Iam going to move on.
What is the best 90's boat?

 

[Dr Honda]

'96, '97, '98 speedster, Sportster, or challenger.

There are still parts available, and they are relatively inexpensive. Any of them in good running and cosmetic condition will be $3500 to $4500.

 

[letsgotothelake]

What about a 95?

Dr. Honda- I am looking at a used speedster too- it is a 95 with one bad motor. super clean for 1500. Does it fall under the no parts and big trouble category too? Thanks for your help in advance!