• This site contains eBay affiliate links for which Sea-Doo Forum may be compensated.

2001 GTX Build

Status
Not open for further replies.
Here are a couple teaser photos because it's been a while since I've updated the thread. Driver's seat is MIA as it is receiving some "stretch" therapy. The new vinyl was apparently pulled too tight and caused the plastic to bend. All my gelcoat work is done and I am putting the finishing touches on everything else.

Things left to do:
-replace fuel pump assembly
-install jet pump
-source weatherstripping for front lid
-maybe have the boarding ladder foam recovered/powder coated

IMG_2943.jpg
IMG_2945.jpg
IMG_2705.jpg
 
If the step is an AquaStep they don't use foam anymore. They switched to rubber and if i remember correctly it was $15 for the rubber and they only charge $5 to install it if you ship your aluminum tube to them. It came back like new.
 
They can do my bar. Apparently the install is free, I'd just pay more for shipping. Something to look into for sure.
 
I installed my new (old) OEM fuel pump tonight. Night and day difference. No more bogging out, and my battery is charging again. Any pointers to make this pump last?

[video=youtube_share;OCWsbHnnLd0]https://youtu.be/OCWsbHnnLd0[/video]

I also got the jet pump installed today, and messed with the carbon ring because something looked odd. This is why you align your engine!!! :facepalm:

IMG_2959.JPG
 
Some times they just wear funny even with the engine aligned. If you buy a new one take a look at the OSD one. It is much heavier duty and on sale for $54.99.
 
I'm going to give this one a try first. I've just never seen one wear that way and thought it was interesting.

Also, I may have spoken too soon on my charging issue. After getting everything back together and running it on the hose, I get a maintenance light and beep about every minute or so. I guess I didn't let it run long enough yesterday for it to appear. When not running, voltage is around 12.5, but when it's running, I'll get around 13.5, but then it will dip down as low as 4V for brief periods of time. This is so frustrating! I really want to water test this thing, but I'm afraid it might leave me stranded!
 
That is extremely low voltage. Typically they will shut down that low.

You can sometimes sand the carbon smooth with 2000 grit wet dry paper.
 
The voltage didn't drop for long, so the ski never died. It's a strange thing. That being said, I still decided to dunk it in the water today. It's been unseasonably warm in Iowa (55º), so I couldn't resist. Mom didn't even complain about the temperature! Right when I started riding the maintenance light was on, but after a few minutes it went off. Even after stopping and restarting it never came back. Do some of these bugs work themselves out?

The engine ran strong, and I got almost 6900 RPM out of it at around 57 MPH. It's a few MPH slower than my carbureted 951, but the holeshot, acceleration, and cold starting are unmatched. Yes, I fogged it when I was done riding!

IMG_2960.jpg16807741_10155074168658966_4426500145630288316_n.jpg
 
Excellent read through. I have the identical machine under the snow outside right now. Can't wait to start playing with it once the weather warms up a bit.
 
Thank you! I post updates in hopes they will benefit others who have similar issues. I am fascinated by the DI engine and will always help out where I can.
 
Same Ski

Great read garrettb and a great job or your restoration! I purchased what I think is the same ski last fall from a cousin of mine. I used to ride it at the lake once in a while when we were there at the same time and said "if you're ever thinking of selling..." Well he gave me first refusal. I took it out in the fall before inking the deal and it ran great. I took it in for winterization and they said it was in great shape. It will be a couple of months before it's warm enough here in Ontario for me to take it out. I just joined this forum today and have been reading a lot. A couple of questions if you don't mind. The speedometer doesn't work. Any ideas on what to check? You mentioned fogging it after your ride. Was that just because it's early in the season and it's going to sit for a while? Any hints are appreciated. Thanks!
2001 Seadoo GTX.jpg
 
Welcome to the forum! First off, I should preface by telling you I only have experience with the GTX 951 models, but there are many others on here that have vastly more knowledge on other models than I do. That being said, I can tell you what I have learned from personal experience.

As far as the speedo, check the paddle wheel mounted to the ride plate on the left side of the pump. Does it spin freely? Is it broken off anywhere? If all checks out back there, double check the wiring on the inside of the ski. The harness should be zip tied to the black electrical box on the port side. Make sure that 1) it's plugged in, and 2) there isn't any corrosion on the connectors. Whenever I unplug something or do any electrical work, I use a little dielectric grease on the plug to help keep water and corrosion away.

If taken care of, this is a great ski to ride! Part of that involves fogging it. I have heard that to prolong crankshaft bearing life, fogging every ride is the way to go. Moisture tends to build up on the insides of the DI machines, and coating the parts in oil will help to prevent that. I'd say it's less of an issue if you're riding it multiple times a week, but for a few times of usage a month, I'd probably do it when you put it away each time. It adds a couple minutes, but it's a lot easier than replacing an engine!

I'm sure you already know this, but if you flip it, pay attention to the correct "roll over" direction as indicated on the sticker on the stern of the ski, always use a synthetic API-TC oil (preferably BRP XPS), keep the battery fully charged when stored to prolong the life of the rectifier, and limit out of water running to a maximum of ten seconds or so.

Most of all, have fun with it!!
 
Which model do I have?

Thanks for the reply garrettb. I'll check the speedo issue when I go down to the lake soon. Just a couple of more questions if you don't mind. I've got the VIN and downloaded the owners manual but I can't be certain which model of GTX I have. I did take a picture of the engine when I bought it. Does this indicate that it's the fuel injected model GTX DI? I want to make sure that I use the proper grade of fuel (even though I think the marina only has 1 grade). I've been reading a lot of posts. I'm a bit concerned that the PO used different vendors of oil (all synthetic) as there were several in the storage compartment. I'll get some BRP oil to use going forward. I did read that it shouldn't be mixed but I cannot be sure what flavour is in the tank now. I didn't have a battery tender on it this winter (it was on the MX-5 while stored) but will do that going forward. I've read of several different fogging methods. This machine will only be used intermittently. What's your method?
I'm a bit old for too much fun (my boating days were 40 years ago) but the kids should enjoy it without a lot invested in it. Thanks again for you insights.
SeaDoo 1.jpg SeaDoo5.jpg
 
You've got a very clean looking engine! It's definitely a DI. In 2001 they came in blue and red, and that was the only difference between the two, so the service manuals are the same. I run the highest octane available without ethanol. That's one thing I forgot to mention. Try your hardest to never run ethanol in your machine. Some gas stations have a "recreational blend" of fuel that is a higher octane and does not contain ethanol. I use that whenever I can.

As far as the oil is concerned, you may want to play it safe and drain the tank. You could syphon all the oil out with a pump, or pull the bungee straps off and dump it that way. Either way, you'd have some peace of mind. The DI airbox has a small fogging port on top size. I believe it is white or clear colored, and will allow you to connect a spray bottle and shoot it directly into the throat of the throttle bodies. It's a huge convenience to have this, versus removing the airbox to fog.

If you have more questions as you're using it, don't be afraid to start new threads. That way, the most people will be able to see them and help out. Enjoy the ride.
 
Great looking ski! I'm really digging the colors on it! I might have to sell my GTI and find one of these!
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
Back
Top