Is this VTS boot bad?

[jamesbern]

I'm gonna go with a yes! Checking out my ski tonight and been reading about the VTS system so I decided to take a look at it. well looking at the boot at the stern it looked OK, then I grabbed it. The boot is torn in the middle all the way around. The plastic zip tie things are good. Decided to open the VTS box to check the motor out and when I did a bit of water spilled out. maybe a 1/4 cup or so. I'm gonna guess it got it because the boot is ripped right? VTS system still works fine by the way. Should I spray some SeaDoo lube in the VTS box at all?

Here is a video of what I mean.

[video=youtube;OOWU2cbaMdI]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOWU2cbaMdI&list=UUZUOmQxsHCIcaRm-DHx-aKw&index=1&feature=plcp[/video]

This is what I need to fix it correct?

http://www.osdparts.com/index.php?main_page=product_free_shipping_info&cPath=4&products_id=13

 

[Dr Honda]

do you really need to ask? (lol) Yes... it's ripped open.

Personally, I would remove that big round cover on the motor if it still works. I bet you will find water in it. Dry it out... grease the gears... and put the cover back on.

 

[jamesbern]

LOL...no, just wanted to share I almost didn't even check it. Something made me. Glad I did or the first time I put it in the water I can bet my VTS would have crapped out. At least the water didn't leak into the hull so the VTS box seals good.

Good idea. I'll definitely remove it and grease inside. I won't get out at least for another week so I have plenty of time to do this.

 

[LouDoo]

The boot is about the only thing that keeps water out of the VTS. So yes you need to replace it, use Waytek plastic hose clamps instead of cable ties or hose clamps. You can get them at Greybar or another electric supply house.

Let everything dry out well, I would take the motor out, just disconnect the electric connections and remove the 4 nuts holding the motor in, it will come right out. Then after everything drys out spray with fluid film. I would also put some synthetic waterproof grease inside the boot. When you put the inside cover back on coat the gasket with Vaseline.

Lou

 

[jamesbern]

Thanks Lou those are some really good ideas. I already have Sea Doo Synthetic XPS grease and lubricant so that works for me.

It might be hard to see but I already have those hose clamps and the new boot includes that style of clamp as well.

The Vaseline idea is awesome. If you hadn't said it I probably would have left it alone.

 

[LouDoo]

Thanks, I use it on all the electric box gaskets, front and rear electric boxes. An old mechanic friend of mine taught it to me.

Lou