replace sponson 97 GSX

[larrytbull]

Hi, have to replace a broken Sponson on my gsx, does anyone have a step by step guide? Is there any water proofing like 5200 or other sealant /Gaskets that need to be used?

thanks

 

[PorknBeans]

You'll need a deep 10mm socket, 10" extension and a ratchet to remove the hardware from the sponson. Not a fun job. Find the cutouts in the flotation foam using an inspection mirror and then connect the socket and extension only at first. Once you have that connected up. Connect the ratchet carefully and turn until the nut is off the threaded post. There are 5 nuts and washers to remove, When removing the sponson. The factory silicone will tend to hold the sponson to the hull. Just wiggle it to break the sponson free and then just simply pull out the old sponson. Use a razor blade to carefully remove the old silicone from around the install holes and then use a sealer like 3M 5200 quick drying sealer and run a bead around the install holes. Then just install the new sponson and reuse the hardware you removed. Replace any hardware that needs to be replaced, Tighten things up and wait a few days for the sealer to completely cure. Do a dunk test at the ramp and all should be good to go!

 

[larrytbull]

thank you

 

[larrytbull]

one quick question do you have to remove water box to get to the bolts, it seems to be in the way

 

[GGuillot]

one quick question do you have to remove water box to get to the bolts, it seems to be in the way

I did this swap when my GSX hull was bare, it's a total pain. You might want to find a 4 yr old kid and stick him down in the ski. Get the rear ebox, muffler and everything you can out the way. You'll need a mirror in one hand and either glue or RTV the nut, washer, locking washer to the socket when reinstalling.

I used left over black silicon II to seal the sponson on, a dab at the 4 stud bases when you install.