Caring for Your Jet Ski
If you’re thinking of buying a jet ski, you need to know how to maintain and keep it in tip-top condition. Regular maintenance checks will help you inspect your jet ski and keep it running for as long as possible. Neglecting your maintenance schedule may reduce its efficiency, resale value or even suffer a complete breakdown and explode. Yes, they can explode if you are unlucky enough!
It’s a huge inconvenience to have a broken-down jet ski, seeing how expensive it is to buy a new one. So here are some helpful maintenance tips to keep your jet ski in near-new condition for as long as possible.
Pre-ride maintenance
These are some valuable tips to follow before riding your jet ski.
Read your manual
The first guideline for maintaining your jet ski is your instruction manual. If you’re a first-time jet ski owner, it is crucial for you to familiarise yourself with the manual, since it carries all the details of important components. It allows you to better understand how your jet ski works and how to troubleshoot simple problems. Sounds pretty obvious, right?
Engine checks
Check your engine for gas vapours before starting your jet ski. The most common cause of jet ski explosions is gas vapours in the engine or gas leaks in the fuel tank and lines. One spark from the battery terminals or a faulty starter could easily blow up your jet ski.
Battery checks
Imagine the frustration of towing your jet ski to the water, then it doesn’t start. You can avoid this by checking to confirm your battery has enough charge, and your jet ski should start right up in your garage. Some jet skis can keep the engine running safely even without water, but confirm if yours can do this by consulting your manual.
Post-ride maintenance
After enjoying a fun-filled day on the water, here are some important points to help you keep your jet ski working for your next ride.
Flush your engine
You need to flush your jet ski engine after every ride, regardless of whether you ride in fresh or saltwater. Flushing your machine removes weeds, algae, loose dirt, shells, and all other foreign objects in the engine. Most modern jet skis are equipped with a connector to allow you to easily flush your engine. All you need to do is connect your water hose to the connector, turn on your engine, then turn the water on. Keep the water running for approximately 3 minutes, then turn the water off and keep the engine running for a few seconds. Remember to empty the exhaust of any excess water. Flushing your engine prevents damage and corrosion.
Saltwater maintenance
Saltwater is corrosive to fibreglass, which is the primary material used in modern jet skis. After flushing your engine, it’s important to wash the exterior with soap and water to remove any excess salt. Set your water hose pressure to low to avoid damaging the body with excessive water pressure. Warm water and a sponge are useful in removing salt residues on your jet ski.
Jet ski cover
Jet ski covers are a clever purchase if you want to keep your vehicle clean and dry between adventures. It can also let you keep it away from the sun if you don’t keep it in your garage all day.
Regular inspections
It is wise for you to keep checking your jet ski and making sure it’s running effectively, even when you don’t plan on riding for a while. Check for mechanical wear and consult a professional to fix and service your vehicle.
Jet ski financing
You can buy a new one or a pre-owned one. However, you’ll need to finance your purchase. The type of jet ski loan can make or break the transaction. Ezilend can help you find a jet ski loan plan with the best rates and pre-approval. Visit our site for more information.
For more tips on Jet Ski Safety, see our post: Tips to keep you safe on your new Jet Ski.
