Newbie question: '08 GTX 155 loud propulsion system

[readdude]

I recently took over an '08 GTI SE 155 and an '08 GTX 155. The GTX's propulsion system is pretty loud compared to the GTI and is less responsive and over-revs on RPMs when loaded with two riders (a bit slow on out of the hole too with only the operator).

Both of them have about 95 hours on them, pretty well maintained. Engines start right up and idle sounds good. No signs of overheating.

So, I am assuming that the GTX's propulsion system has either bad bearings or damaged impeller (will take it out of the water, currently on a floating dock, this weekend to better inspect).

I know that is a pretty general description, but generally speaking, my question is, how imperative is it that I get this looked at vs. riding a few hours on the next few weekends? Should I get it out of the water and to a mechanic immediately, or is it reasonable to use it with these limitations and get it fixed after Labor day?

 

[xspook]

Bad pump bearings can cause engine damage if it gets bad enough.

 

[readdude]

Bad pump bearings can cause engine damage if it gets bad enough.

I understand that, that is the risk trade-off I am trying to quantify I guess. Maybe more specific questions then.

As a non-mechanic (but handy enough), are there any symptoms I should look at or a rough measure of RPM vs. speed for example that would help me figure out the level of concern. My analytical side tried a bit of compare and contrast between our GTI and our GTX, but I don't really have any basis for deciding what is good or bad.

This is the rough observation I made. The RPMs will max out (+7000) while making the hole shot, but once I am up on a plane, they seem to run roughly the same as the GTI in the 5000 range when cruising in the 25-30mph range with one rider. Hit the throttle, it maxes out for brief second with a bit of sluggish acceleration, then will bring it to speed and settle down again.

As I write this, it kind of sounds like cavitation from a damaged impeller or wear ring, but I am new to this and am only guessing.

My previous experience with Bombardier products was in the 1970s and 80s on snow in a simpler time and place..... I am getting old.... I actually understood all the parts in those bad boys.

I do plan to put it on a trailer later this week and perform a visual inspection. I am going to peer into the intake and see if the wear ring and/impeller are damaged. I found a couple good pictures on the interwebs to guide me on what they should look like. Any other simple tasks or advice? I am not prepared to start tearing it down at all. My wife and I have been having a spirited conversation about putting a garage on our lake property, maybe next year.