Please Help! I'm a newbie looking to buy a seadoo.

[Adamdebo]

I'm in the market for a seadoo, and I literally know nothing about them. What are some things to look for when buying a seadoo? I think I'm looking to buy a two seater that could tow a wakeboarder/tube etc.. What are some good places to look? Is there anything I should watch out for? Please help!

- Adam

 

[DCKD]

Im amsuming that you are looking to buy used?

This helped me: http://www.seadooforum.com/showthread.php?t=134

Also, in Canada you cannot legally tow a wakeboarder or tube behind a 2 seater. This is because you need a spotter on the ski as well as a seat on the ski for the person you are towing. If you want to use it for wakeboarding/tubing a three seater is likely your best bet.

Matt

 

[Adamdebo]

Thanks a lot Matt

How many hours is too many? What number of hours to seadoos usually start breaking down at? What is a hull number, and where is it on the seadoo? Is that like a VIN number? What does data tagging mean? On the list you gave me, (15) reads "Make sure Ski title and numbers match USA/ Check Data Tag numbers and paper work match the name on the documents UK." How does that apply to me if I live in Canada?

 

[DCKD]

That list is geared towards US buyers. However I think point 15 is about ensuring that the papers match the ski you are buying and there is no funny business going on.

Im not sure how many hours are too many. It's subjective and really depends on how the ski was maintained. I have seen skis with over 300 hours working just fine.

I personally have not been a long time owner but I am sure others around the forum can be more helpful.

Matt

 

[seadoosnipe]

Good job...

Well said DCKD.......your information for Matt's question will help others too.

The HIN (hull identification number) is on the back, lower starboard (right side) of the hull. The last two digits will tell you the year of manafacturer.

The EIN (engine identification number) is located in one of two places. Either across the back, top side of the PTO casing or on the front at the MAG casing. It will be a metal stamp type.

If your looking at a used ski, the most important piece of paper you need is the years registration. There isn't another piece of paper more important than that one. Make sure the numbers on the registration match the numbers on the ski. Before a purchase, if you think anything is amiss or shady, go to your local DMV and they will run a check on it to ensure it isn't stolen.

I would be very careful about buying a ski/boat outside your state, since all watercraft are governed by state laws.

Good luck on your hunt. :cheers: