As the weather warms up, you may be thinking about taking your jet skis out on the water. After a season or two in storage, however, it might need a tuneup first. Like a boat or the family car, these watercraft can develop mechanical problems over time. Below are a few of the most common, as well as tips for addressing them.

3 Issues With Jet Skis & How to Solve Them

1. Dead Battery

If you hear multiple clicks when you turn on the jet ski or it fails to start, a dead battery is most likely the problem. As you only use the watercraft certain times of the year, sulfation could occur during off-seasons. This refers to a buildup of salt on battery plates, and this causes equipment to lose its charge. A repair technician can clean the battery and recharge it.

2. Worn-Out Gaskets

To prevent oil from leaking out, gaskets are placed at engine joints. The crankshaft, flywheel cover, exhaust, and oil pump components feature seals. To prevent leakage and pressure problems, a repair technician can replace worn seals made of treated paper, rubber, or silicone with durable metal counterparts. 

3. Faulty Impeller

Powered by the jet ski engine, the impeller fits into a pipe. Water is drawn in one end of the pipe and pushed out the other. Debris can get stuck in the impeller and can damage the internal components. This is often accompanied by a rattling or knocking sound. On land, you can look in the grate to spot any gunk wedged in the impeller that needs to be removed. 

Although you can troubleshoot some problems in a pinch, the technicians at Stretch Powersports will provide professional repairs to extend the life of your jet skis. In addition to reliable repairs, the Cairo, NE-based company is also known in Hall County for its selection of watercrafts and ATVs by Polaris®, Kawasaki®, and Yamaha®. Call (308) 485-1065 for a service appointment and view available merchandise online. Check out product alerts on Facebook.