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New to the PWC game. Quick question

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onlyflash944

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So I am new to Seadoos and I am looking into buying a first PWC, used and for cheap. I am a capable mechanic (on cars at least) and can take care of an older craft. I want a craft that will be able to tow an intertube with a driver and rider weight of around 500lbs. So I want to know how big of a PWC engine do I need to be able to handle this?


I have found a 94 GTX or a 94 XP that both are local that might fit the bill. Thoughts or suggestions?
 
GTX vs. XP

The 94 GTX and the 94 XP are essentially the same ski, both skis have the same motor, carbs, the difference being the GTX is a 3 seater, and the XP is a 2 seater.

Both of these skis are capable of pulling a tube, the question is how much performance do you want. The engines are on the lower end, 657 with 2 carbs. You might want to move up a couple of years and get a ski with a 787.

The other concern is, at least in KY is you are required to have a driver, and an observer, so unless you are leaving from a dock and returning it leaves the 2 seater out. You should check the regulations in your area.

Below are some tips I put together about purchasing a used ski.

1. Check the compression, compression should be about 150psi and no lower than 130psi, with a difference of not more than 10%.

2. Does the ski still have the grey tempo fuel lines? This is not a deal breaker, but plan on spending around $150.00, if you do it yourself, to replace the lines, filters, selector switch, and maybe overhaul the carbs.

3. Visually inspect the wear ring, check for chunks missing, and excessive wear, clearance between the wear ring and impeller should be not more than .040", while you're there look and the impeller for any dents or dings. Again this is not a deal breaker, if you do it your self plan on spending $50-60.

There are threads in the articles section of this forum on how to do both 2 and 3.

4. Ride the ski, does it accelerate smoothly and quickly. It should plane fast and ride straight and true with little vibration. After your ride check the hull for water, a little water is normal, as the ski is not completely watertight around the front storage compartment.

Hope this helps.

Lou
 
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The above info is corect... but it's illegal to pull a tube with a 2 person ski (USCG rule) So, if you want to do that... the GTX is your only option between the 2 skis. also, an XP will not support 500 lbs worth of riders. Officially, it's limit is only 352 Lbs.
 
Thanks for the heads up about using a 2 seater. I was not aware of that law. FYI am located in VA. The only time I have used a ski to tube with was a buddies supercharged 1700cc honda ski that had no problem pulling 4 people on a tube. However, I don't have 10k to spend on a play toy like he did.

As far as performance goes, I am going to have to sacrafice a little on that end because I can't really afford anything more than the one grand range. So if the GTX will be able to pull me and the heaviest of my friends, and get the tube out of the water, thats all that matters at this point and time.

I will have to do some more research on here about inspecting the wear ring and the fuel lines. I am going to look at the GTX tomorrow but unfourtnatley the seller doesn't have it in the water. I will be taking my compression tester and a few sockets to pull the plugs.
 
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