2003 GTX Supercharged OPAS question

[floridakeys]

Hello. I am new to the forums. I just purchased a 2003 GTX Supercharged Seadoo. Think I got a pretty good deal at $3k with 60 hours only in fresh water. Anyway I had an inspection and some general maintenance work done. They said it was the cleanest unit they'd ever seen. They told me in the near future I should have the OPAS removed and they had a kit to block it all off. They told me the boots in the OPAS can deteriorate, cause a leak and the ski could actually sink. I wanted to know if anyone had any experience with this. The company I worked with seems pretty honest but them telling me the ski is going to sink seems a bit like a scare tactic. Any help would be great, thanks.

 

[KK40384]

Sounds like a tactic to sell their block off kit. Can the seals deteriorate and leak water and possibly cause the ski to sink? Theoretically yes. Realistically? No. Not unless they are toast and you keep it moored for a LONG period of time and don't check the bilge. Also this block off kit comes with seals, and what's gonna happen when those deteriorate? You guessed it!

Only benefit to removing the OPAS paddles is to allow for a rear exit thru hull exhaust. If you don't plan on doing that there's no need to remove them. Assuming the seals do fail, just replace them. Honestly, I've never heard of those seals ever failing.

 

[Dennis]

I agree with KK40384. The 4TEC has NEVER been known for having OPAS seal issues. :cheers:

 

[Coastiejoe]

Concur,,, They are normally not an issue.

 

[speedster98]

No issues with mine leaking either. I did however have the hose that feeds the OPAS system come off the pump. After finding that I figured the filter for it may be clogged. I read on here the OPAS can cost you speed if it does not lift, I decided to disable it using 3/4" pvc spacers to keep the fins raised. Easiest mod I have done and I would suggest it for most.