1997 SeaDoo GSX

[mcvette]

I need some advice. I have the chance to buy a 1997 SeaDoo GSX. I have only seen pictures but they look really good. They are selling because they are having a baby.

I am told it needs a battery. Might need a new starter and carburator.

It comes with trailer and cover.

I can buy it for $450.00. Is this a good deal? What should I look for. I have never even been on one but this sounds like a good deal even if I have to replace the starter and carb.

What do you think.

 

[mmccoy555]

Re: 1997 SeaDoo GSX

Your already gettin close to $1,ooo if you do have to buy a starter and carbs. Make sure the motor spins. Grab the driveshaft behind the motor and try to spin it. Make sure it's not siezed. Check for oil in the engine compartment. If it's dirty and oily chances are that it's been under water. If it looks clean, should be good.

 

[Jeff Walkowiak]

Re: 1997 SeaDoo GSX

that is a good price,, but be sure the engine is not grenaded,, those love to hatch.

 

[H20Rat]

Re: 1997 SeaDoo GSX

gsx 2 or 3 passenger (regular or limited?) The regular had the dirt cheap and rock solid reliable 787 engine. the limited had the bigger but vastly less reliable 951 engine.

(I've got a '97 regular GSX. GREAT boat, very fast, very nice hull for any water condition)

 

[mcvette]

Re: 1997 SeaDoo GSX

Looked at and bought the SeaDoo today. Put it in the water and ran fine at first then would barely go. Thought it was probably the carbs so I thought at least it runs. Someone at the marina suggested changing the plugs. Put in two new plugs and bam.......it was like a Wild Cat. Ran spotless. I installed a new battery and never had a problem with the starter. I guess someone told the previous owner he needed new carbs but the way it runs now I can't see changing them. It ran 52 mph.

It is the standard GSX, two seater. This thing has been garage kept and still has a shiny gloss on the gelcoat. It shows 91 hours on the meter. Is that average? One person at the marina commented it was the best looking '97 he had seen.

Now I need someone to help me with what maintenance I should do. Any suggestions would help. I don't have any manuals yet. Any suggestions would be appreciated as I know nothing about this toy but I think I'm going to like it.

I think I got a good deal for $450.00.

 

[enginesilo]

Re: 1997 SeaDoo GSX

Had a 1996 for many years, and sold it off 2 or 3 years back. GREAT SKI! Very stable and rides 2 up nicely, without bobbing over too bad like a buoy. You got the thing for a steal at that price too!

The 787 engine is a reliable power horse, keep it well lubricated and it will run strong.

If you don't know much about the ski, I would suggest changing the jet pump oil in the back. It isn't too hard and you'll get the hang of it. It is basically the cone if you look in the back nossle, you'll see a cone back there that is full of oil. I usually changed it once at the end of every season with seadoo oil.

Spray the engine with T-9 boeshield, or some other type of lube.

The seadoo's LOVE to drain battery's when just sitting. So if you leave it for a few weeks without running it you might find a dead battery. Get a top notch gel battery and you won't have this problem. The battery I had was a PC-625, and I would never not have that battery in that ski again if I had to choose. It is a must for a seadoo, and to eliminate this dead battery issue.

The GSX is a sweet ski! Enjoy it, and especially at that price!

 

[Jeff Walkowiak]

Re: 1997 SeaDoo GSX

yes I was referring to the 951 engines / the 787 is a lot more reliable