1998 2 stroke triple 1050 Polaris, running problem

Jim Cash

Cadet
Joined
Sep 6, 2011
Messages
8
Jet ski runs but is flat in midrange and sometimes dies at that RPM range. Can then be hard to start. Suspect fuel starvation but do not know the cause. Any ideas? Thanks, Chief
 

frozenokie

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Feb 4, 2008
Messages
309
Re: 1998 2 stroke triple 1050 Polaris, running problem

Do a compression test first thing. Then move toward eliminating thing like spark, fuel, cooling, etc.

Mine did similar to yours and it needs a top end rebuild :facepalm: lost compression in first cylinder - so didn't spend a bunch of $$ or time for diagnosis purposes and I can just get 'er done.

Let us know what you find out :)
 

Scott Danforth

Grumpy Vintage Moderator still playing with boats
Staff member
Joined
Jul 23, 2011
Messages
47,296
Re: 1998 2 stroke triple 1050 Polaris, running problem

center carbs tend to go lean on the polaris triples resulting in toasting the center cylinder.
 

Jim Cash

Cadet
Joined
Sep 6, 2011
Messages
8
Re: 1998 2 stroke triple 1050 Polaris, running problem

Checked spark plug color and all 3 read healthy tan with dark perimeter. Will check compression today. Anyone know if there is more than just the one big gas filter in the fuel line? Spark and cooling appear fine. Thanks, will report back after checking compression. Will just a starter turnover out of water be OK for compression test? This rig runs over 60 mph once/if you get through the flat midrange! Chief
 

orangeman

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jul 27, 2008
Messages
49
Re: 1998 2 stroke triple 1050 Polaris, running problem

Check your compression and if by some miracle you dont have at least one bad cylinder rebuild your carbs. Polris skis are notorious for burning up pistons if they run lean. Generally when a two stroke dies at speed it is due to a lean siezure. There are filters inside the carbs.
 
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