Looking to be a new owner,,, need advise

[Southskier]

Hi everyone,

OK, I am looking at a couple of skis and need some advise. Years ago, I have owned a older kawa js300 and the 1st waverunner that was released, but now my son and I are looking at a couple of Seadoos that I guy is wanting to make a deal with us on. Here are the specs:

97 Seadoo XP (white engine) Is supposed to run, but has a short in the wiring at the front of the hood. He said that he can move the wiring and it will start.

98 Seadoo XP Limited. The guy has said that he doesnt know what is wrong with the engine, but the head was off. I am suspecting it will need a rebuild. I am guessing around $1k for this? High or low?

96 Seadoo GSX 5620 This one is supposed to run.

97 Yamaha GP1200 Waverunner Again, supposed to run and I know that this is Seadoo forum, but I include as it will help in the decision.

OK, Here is the deal, I know that I want to hear the running ski's start, but is there something else that I need to look for right off? Also, is it worth it to even look at the XP Limited if it cost 1k to get running? And what is a better ski, the 96 GSX, or the 97 GP1200? The hulls for these are decent for the age, and only one has a tear in the seat (97 xp), but I can fix this with a replacement.

Thank you for your help on this.
Rob

 

[El Toro 33809]

Welcome to the forum Southskier. It is difficult for me to offer advice without seeing the PWC's, how much they are asking for them and not knowing your mechanical capabilities. Some basic items to look for: Does the motor turn over?; does it start?; what is the compression? Further down the line would be have the fuel lines been replaced (gray tempo lines deteriorate with ethanol gas), what shape are the impellar and wear ring in?

I believe that the 98XP Ltd has the 951 engine. SBT sells that rebuilt engine for around $1,200.

The GSX is a good model/engine. The GP1200 would most likely be faster due to the much larger engine. It would be your personal preference. Just take your time and look closely at each unit until you find something you like or are comfortable with.