changing hulls fom 97 to 96 xp hulls

[nlafond2000]

changing from a 97 xp hull to a 96 xp hull,
the 97 i have had nothing but drive line issues, found a 96 hull in really good shape, its been somewhat stripped but in really good shape, got it for 75 bucks,
anyone know of any differnces to watch for? i figure most of it should change over.

 

[LouDoo]

You know when I fist saw this I thought "what a dumb idea", but I think it might just work. Me and a lot of other guys on this forum think the 96XP with the X4 hull is the best balanced ski that SeaDoo ever made.

Looking at the differences it appears that you will need a drive shaft from a 96 and also a PTO, PTO guard from a 96XP, transfer all of the electronics from the 97 hull to the 96, since they both use the same motor the mounts should match up. Pumps are the same, so the steering should match up. You'll need to align the motor. Overall it looks doable.

Any one else have any opinions?

Lou

 

[nlafond2000]

i have the sbt alignment tool,i tried everything to get it perfect but the the front dampener kept burning up, after about 6 dampeners i have had enough, i dont want to give up on this project, well...just because i won't let this machine beat me. this machine has had a lot of issues and i have fixed them all, except this alignment issue.
in canada the dealers want $100 apiece for the dampener, i have been getting them out of florida for $35. the other issue i know of is the vts ring on the pump is a little different, but a drill will fix that. luckily a friend of mine had a 99 spx and has a few extra parts this will be my project over the winter...well spring.

 

[Minnetonka4me]

I wonder if maybe your driveshaft was bent causing that? If the alignment tool was showing straight, thats about the only thing it could be.

The swap will be slightly a PITA as far as wiring goes. I would buy some connectors and cut the VTS and start stop off the 97 harness, then use the correct connector to mate it to the 96 harnesses.

The VTS wiring is different too, but if you use the 97 harness that will work itself out. The MAG connector maybe too short...depends on where you mount the MPEM.

Wait on modifying the VTS parts till you install and look it over...I think all you will need is the plastic spacer, and then b/c the VTS rod is longer on the 97, the 97 trim ring will work.

Keep me in mind for any misc parts you need...I got everything at a decent price if you can make just 1 or two orders vs. having me send 1 part at a time.

 

[nlafond2000]

i am sure am gonna keep you in mind, i like the ride of the x4 hull, a guy i work with has a 99spx so i have something to reference from. the 96 still has the full exhaust system installed,and the guy changed his mind about throwing in the pump, i have a couple of spares, as for the driveshaft maybe it is bent i kinda like switchin to the x4 for the lightweight, it has my fat ass to haul around the lake so lighter the better

 

[Minnetonka4me]

Hey you dont have to talk me into it...lol the X-4 hull is the best hull ever.

Hopefully that hull is complete minus the engine and pump...throttle and choke still there? All the little stuff is key to making a fairly cheap swap. Hopefully the rear ebox is still there along with that harness. Now that I think about it, that will be one of the more in depth parts b/c its up front on the 97. If the 96 harness is still there you can do a little splicing. Again...I would recommend using correct connectors for a clean install. I have tons of the black part cheap...but the pins are kind of pricey.

 

[nlafond2000]

the 96 wasn't bare bone. alot of the little things are there