Random ignition failures

[SeattleCraig]

My '96 GTX will be running fine then suddenly quit in the middle of the lake. Feels really random and can happen in a few seconds, minutes, or last most of an hour before quitting - infuriating! It acts like the key just uncapped with the entire dashboard going blank. Re-capping the key lights everything back up and the motor fires right up (picture it quitting a few seconds later though).

I've tried a new key and am in the process of replacing things that needed replacing like the starter switch, the DESS post, and the buzzer hoping new parts on a boat > 20 years old improve things. I'm also resolving to go through each connector with at least a good electrical connector lubricant. Has anyone heard of this issue and whether it means more expensive parts like the MPEM could be the problem?

Thanks in advance from a newb!

 

[Matt Braley]

It could be the MPEM but it's doubtful. Usually it's the start/stop button or the wires going to it when skis are doing that to me. I think your first wave of attack should fix the problem.

 

[mikidymac]

We had the exact same problem on a friends 97' XP at the beginning of the season and it was the DESS post. Ski has been perfect since replacing it with one from OSD Seadoo Parts.