Looking to buy first time...

[JerseyDoo]

Very new to boating. I'm zeroing in on a 2005 Sportster SCIC with about 40 hrs. I have read a lot of the threads on the ceramic washers and will definitely replace them if the current owner already hasn't. Does anyone know what an authorized Sea Doo dealer might charge to give the boat a once-over?

Also, would you go with the newer sportster or older speedster (1999 or 1998)?

Thanks for your input.

 

[Dr Honda]

A dealer will charge $400 to $700 to change them, depending on how much they inflate the parts prices, and what they charge for labor, and what they require. (they may want to do an oil change with it)

I'd call your local dealer, and ask.


Pesonally... I like new toys, but I don't like the high RPM 4-stroke engines. They are very reliable, and make good power... but things like the supercharger washers get expensive, (even the tool steel washers need changed every 100 hr's) and when the engine finally gives up, it will cost $3500 plus labor for a new one. The regular failure is that they drop a valve, and that jug eat's itself.

A 2-stroke is also reliable, and much cheaper to keep running.

 

[JerseyDoo]

Thanks Doc. Sorry it took so long for me to respond but I was away for a few days. I figured as much about the cost. I like new over old as well, but will take more reliable any day.

I'm now thinking either a 1999 speedster or sportster 1800. Any preference between the two? Again, your input is greatly appreciated.

 

[RFoster130]

Either of those boats would be great. Just depends on your needs. The 98-99 Speedster will seat 5 total, (4 comfortably). The 1800 will seat 7 to 8, (5 comfortably). Both are powered by twin 110 HP motors. These motors are built well and are reliable when maintained properly. If you come across a 99 Speedster that says it is an SK, it has 2 smaller engines, 85 HP.

 

[ocod]

Thanks Doc. Sorry it took so long for me to respond but I was away for a few days. I figured as much about the cost. I like new over old as well, but will take more reliable any day.

I'm now thinking either a 1999 speedster or sportster 1800. Any preference between the two? Again, your input is greatly appreciated.

Only had boat a few months and been out on it twice in the ocean and I can say it depends on what you want.

It is not a go fast boat or ocean runner.
It is a good boat to get you out on the water and have fun.
Go through 30 gallons is 4.5 hrs of running full throttle at 45mph with premix.

I got it b/c as Dr pointed out they and inexpensive to repair and if you slightly mechanically inclined easy to fix.
Also, no prop(safe for kids) and only need a foot of water so no running a ground...
Dr posted a great write up on wear ring replacement that will save you a very expensive trips to a shop
Otherwise its a simple two stroke engine in doing top end for 200-300 bucks or complete build for 1k.
Anything else is electrical and cosmetic(interior/gelcoat)

 

[truthbetold]

Very new to boating. I'm zeroing in on a 2005 Sportster SCIC with about 40 hrs. I have read a lot of the threads on the ceramic washers and will definitely replace them if the current owner already hasn't. Does anyone know what an authorized Sea Doo dealer might charge to give the boat a once-over?

Also, would you go with the newer sportster or older speedster (1999 or 1998)?

Thanks for your input.

I passed up an '05 Sportster with the supercharger because I didn't want all the problems that go with it. I spoke to a bunch of seadoo service people and they all said to stay away from those if possible. I ended up with an '04 Sportster 4 tech instead. A little slower but much more reliable.

 

[JerseyDoo]

I don't need a whole lot of speed...just enough to pull a skier or tube. Can you confirm the motors on the sporster 1800? The owner of the one I am looking at said that it has twin 85's. I'd prefer the twin 110's that the speedster has but like the seating possibilities of the sporster.

 

[ocod]

I don't need a whole lot of speed...just enough to pull a skier or tube. Can you confirm the motors on the sporster 1800? The owner of the one I am looking at said that it has twin 85's. I'd prefer the twin 110's that the speedster has but like the seating possibilities of the sporster.

I have the twin 85 in the sportster.
The challenger has the 110

Adult skier may be a problem if boat loaded down to capacity. Tubbing should be no problem though.