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'98 vs. '99 Speedster

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MichaelP

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Hi Everyone
I don't intend for this thread to turn into a heated debate. I know that these two boats look the same, but there must be differences. Also, there are things I've heard, and noticed.

1: There seems to be more '98s available for sale, than the '99s. Anybody know why?
2: I've read quite a few times, that many of the '98s had SERIOUS hull problems. These are quotes from another site: "From what I hear the 98's had a lot of hull problems but it was corrected in 99..." "I believe over 50% of 98's had to have full hull replacements."

I appreciate, and welcome info from all of you.
Michael
 
As far as I know, the 2 are pretty much identical. 99 offered the SK option which was dual 85HP motors instead of the 110's. The SK also had the front bow cover. They were yellow in 99 and red in 98. I have seen a lot of 98's on here including mine and that is the first time I have ever heard of any "SERIOUS" hull problems. I would be interested to hear where you found this info. I honestly think it is wrong unless all the 98 owners here are the 50% that have not had a problem. I really think you cant go wrong with either boat. I think the layout is the best of all the smaller SD boats made.
 
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Hey Foster
Thanks for the info. From the looks of it, the color I want will dictate the year I get. I've also sent you a PM with a direct link for the hull info, or maybe I should say misinfo.

Mike
 
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I wouldnt worry about it honestly. If a boat had hull problems that required a major repair, that problem would have been evident way before it got to be 12 years old. Figure out which one you prefer and starting hunting. Good Luck and if you have any questions while looking ask em on here.
 
Foster
Thanks again for the info. I do appreciate it.

I honestly don't have a preference as far as the year of the boat goes. ('98 or '99) The only reason that I had preferred the '99, is because I was under the impression that there were "serious" (NOT my quote) hull problems with the '98s. Evidently that is not the case.

What problems should I be looking out for mechanically? I'd like to check as much as I can before I make any purchase. Is there a way to determine if a boat has been "beat on"?

What about price? NADA says a '98 on the trailer is worth $5,870-$6,630 depending on condition. Does this sound about right? Obviously I'm going to haggle price, but it's nice to know what "ballpark" to start in.

Thanks
Mike
 
I also have never heard of any hull problems with the 98's either. Pretty sure both years are the same hull. I would be interested in that link also.
 
Thats about the going rate. Usually 5500 to 7000 is where I have seen them. I paid 6200 for mine 2 years ago (in March) with 85 hours on it. I had to drive 10 houra each way to get it though. There are good deals out there, but this time of year is when the price starts to go up. You may have to be willing to drive to find one. There seems to be fewer of the 98-99's but I think that is just because the owners are so happy they dont sell them. The only reason I would sell mine is to upgrade to a bigger boat.

As far as what to look out for, read up here on tips for buying used boats. The general rule though is to compression test the engine and you MUST do a water test. Take it out and run it for at least 20 to 30 minutes. Get it up to fuill temp and check every button and function. Come back here with any questions.
 
I just purchased my 99 SK (Smaller Engines) but in very nice shape for 5,800. I was unable to do a water test because there was still 2 feet of snow when i purchased it but i did do a compression test and everything came back fine. Good luck finding one, i searched for 4-6 weeks until i found one worth buying. Luckily was only a 2 hour drive.
 
Foster: Thanks again for all the info. What if I can't water test a boat? Is a water test a must?
Phildoo: I'm PMing you a link right now.
 
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I would never buy a boat without water testing it. Would you buy a car without driving it? There are people on here almost weekly having major problems with something they recently bought. When we ask if they water tested it they say no. Just this week there is a guy who bought a "river ready" ski that now needs a new driveshaft and pump rebuild.
 
I would never buy a boat without water testing it. Would you buy a car without driving it? There are people on here almost weekly having major problems with something they recently bought. When we ask if they water tested it they say no. Just this week there is a guy who bought a "river ready" ski that now needs a new driveshaft and pump rebuild.

Point taken. But, what if a water test is not an option?

What about earlier models, like a '96 or '97? I "see" a '97 that I could get for a steal. But, it's going to need some sort of work. "Has no Blower* we just vented the engine by opening the hatch." "We welcome Jet-Engine mechanics"

Mike
 
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I found more info about the hull issues. It does affect 98-99 both. They were fixed under warranty. I would think any boat that had the issue would have been fixed way before now. If not it probably has been broken in half and disposed of..lol The info is on another popular jetboat site so I am not gonna link it. PM me if you want info.
 
I found more info about the hull issues. It does affect 98-99 both. They were fixed under warranty. I would think any boat that had the issue would have been fixed way before now. If not it probably has been broken in half and disposed of..lol The info is on another popular jetboat site so I am not gonna link it. PM me if you want info.

PM Sent.

Thanks
Mike
 
It begins...

With the right guidance from Seadoo Forum. I've begun my search for a boat. I'm happy to say that I've already found a viable candidate.

I'll keep you all posted as the search progresses.

Mike
 
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