1996 Seadoo XP with rusty starter bendix issue

[toyotony]

Hello,
Wondering if I could get some help on an issue I am having with my ski.
I operate in brackish water and the starter nose/bendix assembly are evidently getting wet while the ski is being ridden. Once the ski sits for a day or so, the starter will spin, but the bendix will not move outward and engage the flywheel. Whe the starter is removed, a lot of rust is evident on the mainshaft of the starter and it looks like there must be water getting into the flywheel area.
The oring on the starter is perfect, so I feel the water is coming in from another source.
Anyone know if there is a seal or gasket that may have failed and could be causing the issue I'm having?
Tony

 

[Phildoo]

I would just replace the starter. It's probably overdue for it anyways.

 

[toyotony]

Well I actually replaced it last week with a new one. Now it is rusted badly after only 3-4 hours of use.
Got to be some water coming in somewhere.
Any other ideas gentlemen?

 

[Phildoo]

That definately changes things. Logic would say your taking on a lot of water. Is it left in water?

 

[toyotony]

Nope. I have carefully flushed it out with the adapter hose after each use and it sits on the trailer in the garage.
Is there a seal or something that could be leaking??

 

[Phildoo]

Have you verified that your bildge is working? I'm not sure if XPs have a carbon or driveshaft seal. They both will leak, but to me it sounds like your starter is getting submerge.
Have you just stopped riding and opened the compartment for a visual?
If the bilge is working, it might not be keeping up with the volume coming in vs what it's pumping out.

 

[toyotony]

Bilge is working. No excess water building up in the hull.
Is there a way that cooling system water could be getting into the flywheel housing area??

 

[Phildoo]

Good question.
Repost it in the PWC 2 stroke section and those guys will be able to give a more definitive answer. A lot of guys don't read this meet and greet section.

 

[toyotony]

will do. thanks