Starting issue.

[JTDavies]

So I bought a 1999 seadoo challenger with a single 787 engine. I pulled the plugs and top cover. Everything moves smoothly and is clean. I put the cover on and kept the plugs out, then tried turning it over and it went no problem.

When I put the plugs in it wont turn over with the starter motor. I can hear it trying but it won't crank over. My compression is 170 in both cylinders. Is this an issue? This is my first jetboat and not sure what could be causing this. Any advice?

 

[racerxxx]

170 is high for a stock engine, but the starter should have no problem turning it over. It could be a weak starter or the battery could be bad. You should have the battery load tested. If it does indeed torn out to be the states and if yours if the original starter I would rebuild that. The aftermarket starters have proven to be, well, junk.

 

[JTDavies]

170 is high for a stock engine, but the starter should have no problem turning it over. It could be a weak starter or the battery could be bad. You should have the battery load tested. If it does indeed torn out to be the states and if yours if the original starter I would rebuild that. The aftermarket starters have proven to be, well, junk.

Thank you I have tried 2 different batteries. One of which was new so I'm certain it isnt a battery issue. I will try rebuilding the starter. Thank you.

 

[racerxxx]

The other thing you can try first is too really clean the connections on the starter.

 

[JTDavies]

The other thing you can try first is too really clean the connections on the starter.

Will try that first. Thank you

 

[Sportster-2001-951C-Stock]

Yes, hopefully it's an original starter, not aftermarket. Much better off rebuilding/buying an original starter b/c many aftermarket starters are weak and the shaft is too soft.

oil in the cylinders maybe or the gauge calibration can affect compression reading.

The original battery cables might be corroded internally under the insulation, usually in case of saltwater.

Try jumping the start solenoid using pliers.

 

[omboli]

I would check the ground and then replace the solenoid solenoid is free

Sent from my XT1635-01 using Sea-Doo Forum mobile app

 

[omboli]

I would check the ground going to the engine and then replace the solenoid it is pretty cheap compared to the starter

Sent from my XT1635-01 using Sea-Doo Forum mobile app

 

[lloyd54123]

Are all seadoo solenoids the same or would the 780 be bigger than one from a 580 or 650?

 

[ialonso]

Before replacing solenoid you can give direct 12v to starter. (Bridge the solenoid). Don't swap the solenoid if it's not the issue.

 

[etemplet]

Just wondering what happened with this issue and how it was resolved. My ski is doing he same exact thing.