I'm looking at a Challenger 1800 Twin. I am new to SeaDoo boats, but have had a couple SeadDoo PWC's. I was just wondering if there is anything I should look for on this particular boat, any common problem areas and stuff like that. Also, what is a fair price? I have him talked down to less than the low retail NADA price, he claims the boat is in better than average condition but I've not looked at it in person yet. Any advice is appreciated.
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Looking at a 99 Challenger 1800
- Thread starter kc8vji
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CaptSteve
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Besides the cosmetics of the boat, it is very important you check the compression on the engines. This boat has twin Rotax 787 engines. I also strongly suggest you take it out on the water for a spin. You really can't tell how the engines are on the trailer without a load on them.
Make sure you check compression with the engines dry and cold. Don't run the engines first then check compression. Perfect compression is around 150psi. Anything lower than ~130 and you are looking at a top end re-build of the engines. Also check out the impellers and wear rings.
There is nothing I know of particular to this year and model that you need to watch for. Just the general things. Check for hull blisters, smooth throttle and reverse lever action, etc. It is not unusual for the gas gauge to not work, but most of the time that is an easy fix.
I also like to find out what kind of oil the owner is using. If they are not using a low ash oil or a TWC-3, then I would be a little leery. The wrong oil can shorten the life of the engines.
Good Luck.
Make sure you check compression with the engines dry and cold. Don't run the engines first then check compression. Perfect compression is around 150psi. Anything lower than ~130 and you are looking at a top end re-build of the engines. Also check out the impellers and wear rings.
There is nothing I know of particular to this year and model that you need to watch for. Just the general things. Check for hull blisters, smooth throttle and reverse lever action, etc. It is not unusual for the gas gauge to not work, but most of the time that is an easy fix.
I also like to find out what kind of oil the owner is using. If they are not using a low ash oil or a TWC-3, then I would be a little leery. The wrong oil can shorten the life of the engines.
Good Luck.
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Thank you. The owner said he had a new motor from SeaDoo installed a couple of years ago and it has less than 5 hours on it. The other engine is 4 years old. So he says anyway. I'll check the compression and other areas you mentioned. Thanks for the advice, hopefully soon I'll join the ranks as a SeaDoo boat owner!
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