Looking at a couple older SeaDoos, have a question about compression

[mike_dmt]

A pair of 96 sea doos came on craigslist in my area for a decent price. They both need minor work and parts, which I'm able to do myself. Not 100% which engines they have, but the owner says they both comp out at 110psi.

He also said they were winterized and have been stored for about 2 years. Could compression drop after that long in storage? What else should I look out for before I drive an hour to look at them?

Thanks in advance!

 

[brock1]

first 110 will need a rebuild from the get go.... so factor that in ive never had comp drop after sitting unless you put it away wet and it rusted and rings broke ..

 

[KyleB]

Agree with Brock. 110 is low but then again he may not be testing the compression properly with throttle fully open. If he is then plan on a rebuild.:cheers:

K.

 

[mike_dmt]

Glad you said something about WOT, I would have tested it closed for sure. Am I looking for 140, 150?

 

[Matt Braley]

If all 4 holes read 110 then his gauge is broken. I just found out the off brand gauge that I was using only read to 150psi. Anything over that still read 150. So that's my 2 cents on that.

A pair of 96XPs is as about as good as it gets. Two of them complete with a double trailer in non-running condition would be worth up to $1500 in my opinion.

 

[mike_dmt]

Interesting. One is a SP, the other is a GTX. I think the XP is a more valuable machine.

Apparently they both need a battery, (naturally), one needs a throttle cable, the other needs computer work, not sure if thats a mpem or what. Trailer is newer, and could hold 3 'Doos total, with a bit of fabrication. He offered them to me for $1800, so

 

[Shuntavi]

If you can do work yourself maybe. Still sounds a little high. Low ball it and see what you get him down too.

 

[mike_dmt]

Yeah, I thought that too. I actually just bought a 92 SPI that needs an engine an hour ago... So Id mostly just be interested in his trailer and his SP. The little ones are more fun..

 

[Dr Honda]

If they've been parked for a long time... I would fire them for just a few seconds, and then re-check the compression.

I don't normally recommend checking on a "Warm" engine... but if they've been sitting... there may be a light glaze of rust on the rings... or they may be stuck. Starting the engine for just 5 or 10 seconds, will free them up.

Then... check the compression with an open throttle. You want 135 or better, otherwise it's time for a rebuild. (And it's probably why they were parked)

 

[JCzGTX]

I understand I am on the opposite coast, but cost around the beach here are usually higher than normal. That being said, IMO $1800 is ridiculously high for two skis having a laundry list longer than a normal prestart checklist at the ramp! There are some good deals here on CL and I think you could find better if you wait it out.

Even if the guy tested them at closed throttle, I have never seen a 30-40 psi difference between closed and open throttle. So, other than him letting the piston travel once and only getting 110, I agree with the others on planning on rebuilds. I sure wouldn't want to get a ski in the middle of the season just to be rebuilding for the next month.

Both skis, trailer and 3 clean titles...... I wouldn't mind spending $1k for that package. Good luck with whatever route you take.