2003 GTI LE RFI - Hot No Start / Dies on Idle

[nathanhaila]

I have a 2003 GTI LE RFI. I am chasing a hot no start issue.

Hot No Start:
On initial start (engine cold) my Sea Doo will start up and run if I have the throttle slightly open when starting. After running it for a bit on the water, when hot, the engine will crank, but not start. Checked battery and it is reading 12.4 V before trying to start. Put a spark plug tester on and getting a brownish light in the tester. Same tester gave off a brighter white light when connected to car.

I replaced rectifier last year and when out of the water and running, the battery reads 13.8V.

Dies on Idle:
If I release the throttle when in the water the engine will die. To keep engine running, throttle must be held down slightly.

Wondering if I have a weak spark issue and if the coil pack needs replacement?

Insights and experience needed here. Thanks!

 

[wfo speedracer]

Battery voltage should be 12.6 or higher, what does it go down to when you turn it over with the gauge hooked up to the battery?

 

[nathanhaila]

It dropped down to about 10. Tried it several times and one time it dropped a little below 10. This was in my garage, out of the water.

 

[wfo speedracer]

Battery is toast, if it drops below 10.5 while cranking it will not fire. I always put at least a 270 cold cranking amp battery in RFI and DI skis, they need the extra amperage.

 

[nathanhaila]

Just start with a new battery? Was told it could be stator. I'd rather start with a new battery!

 

[wfo speedracer]

stator has absolutely nothing to do with the ignition on a 787 other than keeping the battery charged so it will run off of it.

 

[nathanhaila]

Makes sense on the ignition issues. Would battery voltage also have anything to do with the issues with my ski not idling well?

Any recommendations on battery brand?

 

[wfo speedracer]

My pick would be this

https://www.amazon.com/Odyssey-PC625-Powersports-Battery/dp/B0000BYEXO

 

[nathanhaila]

Ordered this battery today. It has higher CCA and PHCA.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002ILK72/ref=od_aui_detailpages00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Hope this addresses the issue. I will update when I get it installed and take it back out on the water.