According to the Notification of Exemption dated 31 August 2017, issued by MSQ General Manager Patrick Quirk, an operator of lightweight craft is exempt from the EPIRB requirement, but must wear a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) on his or her person at all times. A lightweight craft is defined as, “off the beach type craft, human powered canoe and kayak, small sailing vessels (less than 6 metres in length), and personal watercraft (PWC)”.

For a PLB to be legally acceptable, it needs to abide by all of the following:

1. It must comply with the standard AS/NZs 4280.2.
2. The owner or master of the ship must have it registered with the Australian Marine Safety Authority (AMSA).
3. It must have up-to-date registration.
4. It must be GPS-enabled.
5. It must float, or must be fitted with a pouch or similar item that ensures it will float.

The registration of the PLB with AMSA shall include important details of the owner or master of the vessel, identifying code of the PLB, and other details reasonably required by AMSA. Such registration will only be considered up to date if the details provided remain the same or are current. If there has been any change, details of such change should be given to AMSA within 14 days after the change. (See Sections 3 and 4 of the Notice.)

A PLB is not required when the lightweight craft is in smooth waters, partially smooth waters, or other waters within two nautical miles from land.

Prior to this exemption, the Transport Operations (Marine Safety) Regulation 2016 requires all ships to be equipped with an EPIRB. In a statement by then Acting Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports Minister Steven Miles, industry consultation showed that the use of the PLB, instead of an EPIRB, does not reduce the level of safety or increase potential rescue time. “Industry advocates told us, there were problems with carrying an EPIRB on a PWC – such as finding somewhere to store this important piece of safety equipment on a small craft,” stated Mr Miles. “Added to this was the concern that a rider who fell off a PWC could quickly become separated from the vessel carrying the EPIRB. Clearly, this had the potential to seriously compromise any search and rescue operations not only in relation to PWC riders but other lightweight craft users.”

MSQ had consulted closely with groups including the Queensland Recreational Boating Council and the Australian Jet Ski Association, the Queensland Police Service, the AMSA, and volunteer marine rescue groups.

By Roselle Tenefrancia

CLICK ON THIS LINK FOR MORE INFORMATION ON SAFETY EQUIPMENT

The post Personal Locator Beacon for PWC appeared first on Boat Gold Coast.

Racing started early on the Saturday morning with everyone getting a few sighting laps before the race. The conditions were improving from Friday’s practice so the day was looking good.

With the introduction of the new SXR and Yamaha’s Ex,

the organisers, Australian Jet Sports Boating Association (AJSBA), decided that the SXR would run in GP as they could not make up the numbers to separate the classes. Moreover, the Rob White’s Yamaha Ex were put in with the Seadoo Sparks in Pro Am Lites Runabout, due to it being a heavier than the Spark.

This worked out well for both classes, with neither of the new boats dominating the race. Justin Winsor, the owner of Liquid Industries on the Gold Coast, had blistering speed on his Seadoo Trak 903. It was doing 75mph right up until it let go and the team had to throw a new motor in overnight. Winsor went on to take the overall win in GP Ski, and the Australian Title.

Pro Am Lites Ski was also closely contested, with Tom Akien, Michael Stevens and youngster Byron Lewis (from Western Australia). Akien was looking like he was going to take the title just ahead of Stevens. The boys were on the pace all weekend in perfect condition one day, and surf like conditions the next. At presentation, to the surprise of all – especially Stevens – Akien was penalized for missed buoys. This meant Stevens received the title, and bumping Lewis up into second place.

Vintage ski race is always great to watch. The beautifully turned out skis always impress. Tim Ryan and the boys always put on a great show. With two motors combined into one, it makes a fantastic show. Every heat, the boys have two starts. I am sure, though, that the guys do not take the race too seriously. (I noticed Ryan waiting for Jarrod Martin to catch up a bit so they could rub shoulders in the turns.) There was also a great Vintage display on show for all to see, with plenty of replicas and original skis.

It was good to see international rider Mohammed Burbayea at the titles. His Seadoo was a weapon on the track, dominating the first few laps on GP Runabout. Unfortunately, that did not last long with Burbayea dropping out of the first race with mechanical issues. Paul Leven and James Masterton took up the challenge. Actually, the entire field of GP had some great racing. At one stage or the other, I think, they were all in a podium position. Leven won the race. He is a great supporter of the sport and always makes a huge effort at every event. He rode consistently all weekend, and well deserving of the title Australian Champion. If you have never seen A GP class, make the effort to so. It is the F1 of our sport.

In the Enduro Open race, a one Moto a day consisting of a 35min + one lap race, Christian D’Agostin went on to take the title, the fifth Australian title for him and a great ride.

Brett Douglas took out Race One convincingly only to have electrical gremlins turn up in Race Two. This gave the opportunity for Guy Greenland and D’Agostin to give it a go. Race One offered glassy water conditions with the racers holding it wide open the whole half hour. But Race Two welcomed a two-foot swell, with a solid wind chop making things a bit more exiting. Mitch Casey and D’Agostin both went over the hangers in the chop. Unfortunately, Casey did not recover after corking his legs on the ski. He was rescued by the safety crew and brought ashore. He later made a full recovery with only minor injuries. D’Agostin, on the other hand, managed to remount his ski and continue on to take third in that moto.

Enduro Open was a mixed class race due to limited numbers, so another winner in Enduro Am Showroom Stock was Paul Bazely. His Kawasaki was at home in the rough conditions and deserved the win.

Mitch Wayt on his 2 Yamaha Gp1800 was consistently fast. The 2016 Australian champion showed us again why he was the champ. Taking the podium in three different classes, he is an outstanding rider and always keen to give it a go. Wayt took out Enduro Pro Am Stock, and placed second in Stock Spec Runabout. Pro Am Stock was a close contest with Wayt only just edging out Casey by one point. Casey is only a newcomer to the sport and with Wayt taking him under his wing. I expect to see a lot of good racing from these two in the future.

Australian Jet Ski Parts were on hand to give away some cool gear and prizes. Loco energy drinks kept everyone hydrated. Swiftco Trailer also donated an awesome trailer for the event. Justin Belczowski won the trailer with a bit of light-hearted backlash from the crowd.

The organisers put on an impressive event. It has been a long five years since the last Australian Titles held at the Spit on the Gold Coast. This year’s event has been the first national title race since the racing incident on the Gold Coast, where racer Joey Scaturchio died. At this year’s event in Redcliffe, Joey’s father, Tony, turned up and supported the event with the handing-over of the Joey Scaturchio Memorial Trophy to Mitch Wayt.

Looking forward to not having such a long wait between titles.

By Andrew Donovan

/Sep-Dec2017

The post Moreton Bay Hosts Australian Jet Ski Titles appeared first on Boat Gold Coast.

The Jetskishop.com has been synonymous with jet ski trekking for more than 20 years. The long-running initiative, The Breakfast Club, is a social group for jet ski owners who have a passion for discovering new destinations with personal watercraft. By organising treks to interesting destinations, the Club believes that riders can build their confidence to take others with them to exciting spots where they can discover new activities and great places for lunch.

One Friday morning, before the sun rose over the horizon, Tom McNaught, The Breakfast Club president, set off with Andrew Johnston and his son Ethan, from Southport to Hervey Bay in one day – a journey of over 400km by water.

“We set off from the beautiful Gold Coast, with navigation lights on. Soon after exiting the Seaway, we spotted our first whales. After a short stop to admire such majestic creatures, we continued the journey before being greeted by an amazing sunrise over the Pacific Ocean,” Tom recalls.

The three riders took the path on the ocean side of South and North Stradbroke Islands, as well as the world-renowned Moreton Island. “The sights were nothing short of amazing. On both port and starboard sides, it was like whales were escorting us. At one stage, we slowed to let a pod of dolphins cross in front of us. To our surprise, instead of continuing their path, the dolphins seemed to be curious about us crazy jet skiers, and decided to play with us. The dolphins would swim right up to the skis and turn on their sides. They appeared to be smiling at each rider. A couple of them were posing in front of the skis, then swimming back to the rider and repeating the process,” explains Tom. “The dolphins stayed with the riders for over five minutes. In awe of this really intimate interaction with nature, Andrew called to me in a really excited tone, ‘We got it all today, Tom.’”

As they rounded the northern end of Moreton Island, the water was a very clear aqua green. Tom says, “At a depth of six metres, we could see the marble effect of the sun’s rays reflecting off the ocean floor.”

Wanting to keep the team moving, they opted to have a breakfast bar on the go, planning to have an early lunch at Caloundra. There was a quick fuel stop at Sandstone Point just before the Bribie Passage. “The passage was as smooth as glass, which makes for an enjoyable ride. Lunch was at Caloundra at 11am. We ate homemade sausage rolls, which were quite amazing,” Tom reminisces. An hour after stopping, they hit the seats and took on the Caloundra bar. Tom describes, “The scenery was nothing short of fantastic. More whales on the way, with one popping up only 10 metres from Andrew.”

Next destination was Noosa for their last scheduled fuel stop, before taking in the surroundings as they powered to their destination. “The scenery going past Teewah Beach and the Coloured Sands around Double Island Point was simply stunning. The waters through the Fraser Passage were as smooth as glass,” remembers Tom.

As the team leader, Tom needed to make an important safety call. “With the fuel buzzers going off, we decided to put a few litres in at Kingfisher Bay Resort just to be sure. We couldn’t risk any of the skis running out of fuel.”

The riders arrived at Hervey Bay Marina around 5pm as the sun was setting. Summing up, Tom says, “It was an exciting challenge to complete in one day, helped by perfect weather. It can only be described as an awesome experience.”

Editorial by Andy Kancachian

The post GC to Hervey Bay in a Day appeared first on Boat Gold Coast.

For the experienced fisher, the PWC offers access to waterways where many boats cannot easily go. Out on the PWC, you are very close to the waterline and open to nature. When you do hook a fish, your bent rod tip will most likely be beneath the water’s surface making for some exciting action. While lending itself to some great photo opportunities, being so close to water can create some intimidating situations when you land a serious-size fish.

There are many factors that make a PWC a successful fishing craft. The turbulence and noise in the water while trawling is minimal because the propeller, which is in a housing (impeller), and the exhaust are only a foot below the water’s surface. With an outboard motor, the propeller and exhaust are at least a metre below the water’s surface.

Additionally, a PWC is very easy to manoeuvre in and out of the surf which makes fishing offshore a pleasure. Technically, once a large fish has been hooked, retrieval is made easy. Being light in the water, the PWC is pulled around by the fish while reeling in, and eventually the fish and craft meet half way. Once the fish is close, there is no need to worry about your line getting caught on props or outboard motor “legs”.

Most riders are looking to join like-minded people for PWC social events. Beyond PWC trekking together, riders are now joining one another for a fishing adventure and finding great enjoyment and success doing so. Here in South East Queensland, an increasing numbers of PWC’s are being used for fishing on the Broadwater, Moreton Bay, out at sea, and on the rivers and canals. You can find groups online or by asking your local PWC and fishing tackle agents.

Recommended PWC for Fishing

You will need a suitable PWC with the recommended minimum specifications, powered by a 155-HP, naturally aspirated 4-stroke engine, and designed as a 3-seater. The PWC can be fitted with rod holders, storage units or an icebox. Ideally, the PWC should be coupled with a trailer that can be launched and retrieved in tidal areas on sand that is fitted with an appropriate-size winch and pivoting rollers.

Shoreline Tubby Fishing Pods.

With more and more anglers using a personal watercraft as a versatile alternative to the traditional fishing boat, the Shoreline Tubby should be a serious consideration.

Constructed with reinforced fibreglass, the Shoreline Tubbys are bolt-on pods that sit on either side of the watercraft, giving the PWC a new lease in stability and extra storage space. These Tubbys transform a PWC into a more fishing-focused watercraft and have proved popular among fishermen in Australia.

Editorial by Andy Kancachian

(May-Aug2017)

The post Fishing on a PWC appeared first on Boat Gold Coast.

“This ride is an excellent way to prepare mentally and physically for the year’s biggest ride to Hervey Bay in July,” says Jetskishop.com owner James Tod, the club’s event organizer. “We will leave from Southport with riders in the water around 6:30. There won’t be a need to bring extra fuel, as we will stop at Raby Bay for breakfast and fuel. The group will stop again at the marina at Bribie Island, and we finish the day with smooth ride conditions up through the Pumicestone Passage.” He confirms that the exact route will depend on the weather and tides on the day. If all goes to plan, the group plan to be back in Southport the following day by 1:30pm.

The group are thoughtful of members’ financial situation and have arranged a variety of overnight hotel accommodation options, as well as encouraging shared rooms or caravan park stays in Caloundra. “While everyone might not be staying at the same places, we will still all dine together for dinner and breakfast at a place so that none of the social group vibe is lost.” Additionally, there will be a small fee to cover the cost of hiring a guard to watch the skis that will be tied up to the boardwalk near the Caloundra lifesaving club.

“The Re-discover tours are a great way to capture special moments, while establishing friendships through the awesome camaraderie of like-minded riders,” James continues. “The team at the Jetskishop.com will be leading each ride, and offering technical support and mechanical advice, if required.”

James believes that by organising treks to interesting destinations, riders can build their confidence to take others with them to exciting spots where they can discover new activities and great places for lunch. “By encouraging jet ski riders to trek out further, there will be less PWC congestion on the main channels of the Broadwater, which makes a safer boating environment for all.”

That social ride to Caloundra offers a whole lot of action and adventure, jam-packed into an overnight stay. Interested riders can email James for more details at james@jetskishop.com.

(May-Aug2017)

The post Overnighter to Caloundra appeared first on Boat Gold Coast.

James recently purchased a jet-power boat as a support vessel for the club and his viewpoint of jet skiers has dramatically changed. “Once I took to the water in a boat, I began to understand why so many boat owners complain about reckless jet skiers driving erratically on the Broadwater.” With this newfound understanding, James is determined to expand his advocacy of arranging social rides for jet ski owners. “From behind the wheel of my boat, it’s clear that the jet skiers who are creating all the havoc don’t really have a purpose when they are out on the water. And many of them are too afraid to venture outside their comfort zones into areas where they are not familiar.”

By organising treks to interesting destinations, James believes that riders can build their confidence to take others with them to exciting spots where they can discover new activities and great places for lunch. “By encouraging jet ski riders to trek out further, there will be less PWC congestion on the main channels of the Broadwater, which makes a safer boating environment for all.”

To support a safer jet ski community by building rider confidence, the Jetskishop.com has created a Re-discover South East QLD Adventure Tour. James says, “The seven-part series is open to riders of all ages and regardless of the brands of jet skis they ride. Our first ride to Slipping Sands at sunset is scheduled for the night of the full moon on 11^th February 2016.” The following ride dates will be confirmed prior to each scheduled ride, culminating with our annual seven-day tour during September in Whitsunday Islands. By offering an advance schedule to social club members, he believes those riders who have been too busy to use their skis in the last few years, will now find the time and a purpose to join in the fun.

Always plotting the route for his next big organised ride, James says, “The Re-discover tours are a great way to capture special moments, while establishing friendships through the awesome camaraderie of like-minded riders. The team at the Jetskishop.com will be leading each ride, and offering technical support and mechanical advice, if required.”

Interested riders can email James for more details at james@jetskishop.com.

2017 RE-DISCOVER SOUTH EAST QLD ADVENTURE TOUR

1. Southport to Slipping Sands for sunset cruise and dinner at Tipplers, with night ride back.
2. Southport to North Stradbroke Island tour (Day trip)
3. Southport to Tangalooma Island Resort and shipwrecks (Day trip)
4. Southport to Caloundra overnight stay (2-day ride)
5. Southport to Noosa overnight stay (2-day ride)
6. Southport to Hervey Bay overnight stay (3-day ride)
7. 7-day Whitsunday Islands tour (5 nights on Hamilton island)

Editorial by Andy Kancachian

(Feb-Apr2017)

The post Building Jetski Rider Confidence appeared first on Boat Gold Coast.

The Humble Beginnings

While the appeal of larger boats had been understood for centuries, the idea of powered personal watercraft was still science fiction in the 1950s. It was the British motorcycle manufacturer Vincent that first made the jet ski a reality in 1955, with its propeller-powered watercraft dubbed the “Amanda”.

A decade later, in the 1960s, a Byron Bay motocross enthusiast, Clayton Jacobson II, was experimenting with adding in the pump jet propulsion that is now commonplace in today’s jet skis. Clayton’s design was used as the template for the first commercially released Sea Doo in 1968. This original concept was then modified into the standing Jet Ski by Kawasaki in 1973, which went on to become a global sensation. It is a testament to the success of this model, which Kawasaki has trademarked “Jet Ski” brand, that it has become the default description for today’s craft.

This Summer’s Models

For anyone interested in carving through the waves during this sunny season with a new jet ski, we have taken a look at three of this summer’s hottest models.

Sea Doo RXP-X 300

Starting with the Sea Doo, you can rest assured the brand has come a long way since that early 1968 model. The current RXP-X 300 provides many improvements for riders, but the most notable one is the engine’s impressive power-to-weight ratio. The 300HP Rotax 1630 ACE engine delivers 1G of acceleration, allowing it to go from zero to its top speed of 96kph in a blistering 3.9 seconds.

As well as the improved engine, you will notice a host of other refinements in the RXP-X, including more responsive braking, tighter turning thanks to a redesigned hull, and an easier to grip seat. Now that last one may sound trivial but anyone who has ridden the older models will know how often you slip backward while accelerating and cornering, forcing you to constantly readjust your position. By narrowing the seat, it makes it a lot easier to grip with your legs, which increases your control and reduces your fatigue.

Yamaha FX Cruiser SVHO

The Yamaha’s flagship model, the FX Cruiser SVHO, has speed and acceleration nothing short of extraordinary, allowing it to easily outpace other brands in its class. The 1.8-litre Super Vortex High Output engine can propel the SVHO from zero to 96kph in just 2.6 seconds, and a top speed of over 110kph.

Yamaha’s proprietary “RiDE” dual throttle technology is another impressive feature, allowing the jet ski to propel water in two directions. This enables it to perform some neat tricks, like being able to sit stationary, instead of forcing you to do slow donuts like other models do. The dual throttle can also help you slow down rapidly by angling water diagonally towards the front.

Kawasaki Ultra 310LX

It was not so long ago that the noise of jet skis was a common complaint. But the sound of Kawasaki’s new Ultra 310LX will be music to your ears. This jet ski is the first to come with its own powerful sound system, capable of streaming music from your phone or USB, and turning it into crisp tunes via the waterproof dual 60-watt speakers.

Subtle but effective refinements to the seat ensure your comfort is always a priority. The seat boasts tiers to raise both riders and passengers, while providing back support. The heat resistant material of the seat will also be appreciated by anyone who has been scolded by jumping onto a jet ski that has been sitting in the sun too long. And no, the focus on music and comfort does not mean performance has been forgotten. The 310LX can easily reach speeds of just under 110kmph.

The Water Craft of Tomorrow: The Quadski

Tired of attaching your jet ski trailer to the back of your car and driving it to the nearest boat ramp? Well, then the Quadski will save you that hassle, while delivering a James Bond-style experience as it transforms from a quad bike into a jet ski in less than five seconds. While its transforming technology is breathtaking, it does come at the cost of speed. Unlike the 110kph speeds of the fastest jet skis, the Quadski tops out at just over 70kph on both water and land. And if you prefer motorcycles, the manufacturer is also working on a two-wheeled prototype called the Biski. It functions just like the Quadski, except the lighter weight enables it to reach an impressive 130kph on land and 60kph on water.

By Narayan Pattison

MAIN PHOTO: Courtesy of JetSki Shop

The post The Past, Present & Future of Jet Skis appeared first on Boat Gold Coast.

You will need around four to five hours for a complete service, plus another hour for the trailer. Do keep records of the service and compression results, etc., and consider taking photos of certain parts for future reference.

Ideally, begin the service after a good ride as the ski will be warmed up. This will allow for the extraction of a maximum amount of contaminants from the motor, as they remain suspended in the hot oil for a couple of hours before they settle to the bottom. The more you can remove the better.

1 Washing

It is great to have a really clean ski as this will prevent any salt, sand or other foreign material getting access where it should not.

Secure the trailer wheels from rolling and place it up on a crate or something similar to give a good angle for water to run out of the bung holes. Wash the hull out from front to back taking care not to induce water into the air intake and electrical components. While washing the hull, check the siphon bilge under the coupler (if your ski has it) and ensure it is free from debris, such as sand or seaweed. You may also remove electric bilges for cleaning. The bilge pump may be the difference between getting back to shore or sinking, should water ingress. Check down the back of the hull for any stray bolts, clamps, washers, etc. This will indicate that something requires attention and removal will prevent damage from them ending up in the wrong place.

2 Flushing

Level the ski again to flush and to rewarm/mix the old oil. Always flush ski in a level position. Cooling is compromised when flushing on a hose and if water does not make its way around the head, etc., the heat can be damaging. Limit your time flushing to avoid damaging carbon seals. (Carbon seals help prevent water entry.)

Place your ski on a service trolley to begin the work. If you don’t have a service trolley, a trailer should be just fine. Just place some buckets over the trailer lights and front to avoid injury to your shins!

3 Changing oil

Immediately begin siphoning the old oil out of the engine using an oil siphon pump. (The same pump doubles as a water remover from the hull too.) Using a trolley jack, place the ski on an angle to ensure you have extracted the maximum amount of oil possible.

When the old oil has been completely extracted, replace the oil filter using either an OEM filter or a jet ski specific brand of after-market filter. Take note of the amount of oil extracted and add around 200ml for the loss from the old oil filter, to replace the correct oil level.

QUICK TIP: Always use a high quality marine grade oil that meets or exceeds the standards required by the manufacturer. You can also add an oil water proofer to your oil, which will minimise wear on your engine should water ever gain access, preventing the need for a rebuild. This also helps in the maintenance of supercharged and turbo skis, as it prevents “dry starting” too.

4 Spark plugs

The next step is to remove the spark plugs. Place them on a sheet of paper and record the compression test results under each one. Do two tests for accuracy and always remove power from the injectors to prevent a false read. If the compression is not within specification, the ski will require further diagnosis. Do not continue to operate it as it could worsen and become a much more serious problem.

If the compression test yields good results, replace the plugs according to the ski manufacturer’s recommendations, taking care to check the gap and always use a good anti-seize. Torque should be applied according to the manual.

QUICK TIP: Ensure the plugs are neither too loose nor too tight. If the plugs are too loose, the ski will run badly and there is a safety risk to the rider. If they are too tight, you risk stripping the thread. Place some grease around the neck of the coils to prevent water intrusion.

5 Other checks

Starting at the front, go through the firewall to inspect all of the wiring, mechanical parts and fuel tank retention. Ensure the fuel breather is operating correctly. Check the inside of the hull for integrity and corrosion. Make your way through the rest of the hull toward the back. Grease the steering and any other bearings such as the intermediate.

• Make sure that all hoses are in great condition and secure, the clamps are serviceable and the wiring in good order.
• Thoroughly inspect the reverse or braking systems. Ensure they are greased and tested.
• Adjust the throttle cables and steering to guarantee correct idle speed and true steering.
• Make sure the engine mounts are all intact and in good order.
• Replace the air filter, if required.
• Remove the intercoolers for cleaning. Clean the injectors on skis that have done more than 200 hours or are more than five years old. Inspect the fuel filter for blockage and clean out the tank, if required. For supercharged skis, refer to the workshop manual for maintenance, as they have varying requirements.
• Check the battery for voltage and make sure its electrolytes are topped up. Secure it well. If you have a coolant tank, remove the coolant and replace if it is due or simply ensure the correct level.
• Remove and inspect the pump and impeller of the ski. This is a good opportunity to also inspect the ride plate and intake grate for safety. Once the pump is out, spin it around to check if the bearings are running smoothly. Note if the bearings are not in good condition, replace them immediately to avoid serious engine damage. Remove the cone to inspect for water ingress. If water is present, replace the grease and seals.
• Go over the entire outside of the hull making sure there are no exposed areas, fractures or holes.
• Ensure your seat is clipping down securely and the bonnet secures well.
• Finally, run the ski up on the hose and allow it to settle for a few minutes to ensure the oil level is within specification.
• Some skis require the service schedule to be cleared using the engine management software. This will also alert you to any problems being encountered.

BONUS: Trailer check

Make sure you give your trailer an once-over too. Check the bearings for torque and water ingress. Put some oil on the jockey wheel and winch.

Ensure the following:

• The strap is in good order.
• The tie-downs are strong.
• All rollers spin freely and that the skids are not damaging the hull.
• The underside is free from major rust.
• The springs are intact.
• The brakes are in good order with plenty of wear.

By Mandy Brown, Jet Ski Club

IMPORTANT NOTE: The above tips do not replace professional servicing and only serve as a guide. Jet skis are all different in many ways and need specialised attention to certain matters. Always refer to the owner’s manual for specific instructions that pertain to your ski make and model. Be aware that you may void your warranty if conditions are not met.

The post 5 Steps for DIY Jetski Service appeared first on Boat Gold Coast.

Put the ski in the shade and remove as much gear as possible to allow access to all areas. Open the hood, glove box and storage areas, and remove the seats and placing them on a foam mat to avoid damage on the upholstery.

Remove Bungs

If you have a bung in the storage or glove box, consider removing them completely. Water does not make its way back up into those areas and any water that does get in will drain through to the hull, which will be quickly dispersed by the bilge system.

Open the bung plugs. This will allow the debris build-up in the hull (leaves and sand) to wash away easily, preventing blockages in bilge systems and damage to the hull that lead to disaster.

Quick tip: Every few rides, take the bung plugs out completely with long nose pliers. Always return them to the hull as soon as possible, so you don’t get caught without them at the ramp.

Washing

• Chock the trailer wheels carefully. Place the jockey wheel onto a crate to lift the front of the ski allowing the hull to drain.
• Hose the ski down from top to toe, inside and outside. Ensure that water does not enter the fuel breather, air intake or coils, and electrical areas.
• Ensure you clean under the fuel tank, motor and coupler where the siphon bilge can become blocked. Pay attention to the supercharger belt and pulley if your ski has them.
• Don’t forget to clean your tubs and seats, esp. underneath and the clips, to wash out salt and sand.
• Use a liquid distributor bottle from the hardware (see Fig. 1) that fits onto the end of the hose.
• Pay attention to cleaning out the pump area at the back and spray through the prop to clean the intake area to avoid corrosion from the salt. You may need to raise the reverse bucket to gain clear access and avoid spraying into the exhaust outlet.
• Rinse off lightly inside and out with fresh water and wipe dry with a soft microfiber cloth.
• Any remaining water in the hull should be pumped out using a hand pump, similar to Fig. 2.

Quick tip: A good quality pump also provides an excellent way to extract oil for DIY servicing.

Flush Engine

• Even after fresh water use, flushing is recommended to remove any sand and algae weed from the cooling system and pump.
• To do this, ensure the ski is on a level position. Depending on the make and model, your owner’s manual will explain how to flush, and indicate if your intercooler is on a separate line.
• Gently “blow” any remaining water out of the water box by blipping your throttle. Your owner’s manual will offer the recommended maximum revolutions while out of the water, with no cooling or backpressure to the prop. DO NOT do this at the ramp before flushing, as it will “cook” the salt into the internal components.

Quick tip: You can use additives with a mild metal cleaner to keep the components clean and prevent corrosion and mineral build-up.

Post-ride checks

• Ensure your engine is level and the engine has been idle for at least five minutes.
• Pull out the dipstick to check the oil by wiping it clean and re-dipping. It should sit within the manufacturer’s specifications indicated in your owner’s manual. If it has any milkiness to it you should contact your service agent as soon as possible, as this means water has made its way in there and extreme damage can occur.
• If the oil level has dropped, check the oil filter for leaks and look over the motor. If there are no leaks or apparent damage, refill to the correct level with the specified oil. If you are unable to explain the loss of oil, contact your service agent.
• If your ski has closed-loop cooling, check the coolant level at the same time.
• Using a torch, look into the hull and check for any disconnected hoses or items that may have come loose.
• Inspect the pump at the back to look for any damage to the prop or liner/wearing.
• Inspect the outside of the hull for any damage from rocks, as this may worsen if left unrepaired.
• Check over your trailer for tyre and bearing condition, corrosion build-up (especially around the forgotten jockey wheel/hitch area) and the winch strap condition.
• Taps are sometimes a long way from where you are when working on a ski, so use a fitting that controls the water flow at the ski to save you time and trouble. (See Fig. 3.)
• Always refuel on your way to the ramp to ensure fresh fuel and a full tank. Use the best quality fuel as much as possible.
• Check your engine hours to make sure a service is not due.

With proper care, a Jet Ski can stay in great condition and last for a decade or more.

By Mandy Brown

Important Note:

Although the above tips are based on actual experience, they do not replace professional advice from your service agent. Always check the owner’s manual for specific instructions that pertain to your specific Jet Ski brand and model.

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The extensive protected waters around more islands than we have counted provide a never ending adventure of riding. Even on rare days of less than perfect weather, there is always somewhere sheltered.

Jet Skiing has changed so much now from when it first began. Back in the 70s, the Jet Ski was known for being an expensive toy with little range and even less reliability. Over the years, modern four-stroke motors have become standard and some of the watercrafts have developed into stable three-seaters with fuel tank capacities of 70 litres or more, allowing distances up to 160 kilometres. The storage areas have also grown to accommodate everything you need, like an overnight bag and a tent. I have even seen a Jet Skier pull out a BBQ! Despite the size increase, we can easily tow two Jet Skis on a trailer around the country for a holiday adventure.

Planning for the adventure

How far you can go is still ultimately governed by fuel availability. However, the many marinas on our waterways provide fuel on the water. We usually strap a couple of 20-litre fuel containers on the back which give us an extra 80 kilometres or so. These come in handy at locations where there is no fuel on the water, but where a petrol station is close to the shore.

Not all adventure rides can be done in one day at a leisurely pace. So occasionally, we stay overnight either camping or in a waterfront holiday rental, or bed and breakfast.

Food is available in so many places you will never go hungry on inland waters. There are luxury five-star hotels, resorts and restaurants that welcome us. There are little cafes and bars on remote islands and many places to stop with pre-packed picnic.

So with good planning, your trip is almost unrestricted. Many Southerners make their way to the Gold Coast adventure waterways for their holidays. A couple of years ago, a well-known retired Gold Coast Lifeguard, named Milton, rode a Jet Ski home from Sydney.

The weather on the Gold Coast makes it comfortable to ride all-year around. In fact, winter tends to have less wind making it fantastic for offshore adventures.

With the right safety equipment and sufficient fuel supply on board, a Jet Ski can take you well off shore to visit the many reefs known for diving and fishing. Of course, this takes you into the pathways of the migrating whales which have to be seen to be believed. Off shore is their playground and if you have a Jet Ski, this is an absolute “must do” on the adventure-riding bucket list.

Up close with wildlife

The wildlife and marine life are second to none. A Jet Skier is close to the water so you are able to get a great view of it all. We often raft up as a group and get out the coffee flasks to take a break, jibber jabber about our Jet Skis, and observe the local marine life doing their daily routine.  Once, some dolphins popped out of the water and swam backwards making a laughing sound to say hello. We often hear them clicking and whistling while under the skis. If we are in the water they will swim around us and under us having a good close look. We have even had them swim up to skis and jump over them. Dugongs are usually shy but they are also keen to have a look at us when we are still.

While stopped off the Gold Coast you can often see turtles on the bottom feeding on grass. The seals off Coolangatta come up to us if we call them. They seem to love swimming around us and having a look too, especially the little ones. Some of the fish we see are so colourful, and snorkelling around them is so much fun.

The National Parks around the inland Islands provide an array of wildlife to observe. Eagle’s nests are amazing and watching them hunt is spectacular. There are kangaroos and wallabies everywhere who love watching Jet Skis. And, yes, they do swim Once, I pulled up on South Stradbroke for a break. I was sitting on the shore having a snack and a wallaby came over and lay down next to me. At another time, our group photographer, Nigel, was taking some shots of a huge three-meter monitor lizard strolling by us. The lizard turned toward him and started to lick his lips, then took off after him. You have never seen anyone get a ski off the beach and into the water faster and the group was well entertained for the day.

Gold Coast destinations

The Gold Coast Broadwater provides a sheltered haven for tubing and wakeboarding. Wave Break Island is one of the best places to set up your base camp, and locals choose the side that is sheltered from any wind that day. Jet Skiing has been around long enough that we are now seeing third generations growing up tubing there.

A few times a year, the Gold Coast experiences huge surf. This is when you see the real Jet Ski adventurers’ trailers at the ramp. The Seaway provides excellent access through to open water but on big days it too can become a very high adrenaline experience. Once outside, the surf is tremendous. If riding in a trough, it can actually turn dark in the shadows at the bottom. Many surfers enjoy the luxury of a Jet Ski tow-in to save the paddling.

The extreme conditions are certainly not for everyone, but on most days there is a swell coming through that makes perfect conditions for some exciting wave jumping. Jet Skis are able to accelerate quickly, so timing your arrival at a steep one-meter “ramp” is an addictive adrenaline rush. For some riders this is all they do—week-in, week-out.

When you venture out of the Gold Coast Seaway and choose to go north, you have a selection of islands such as Moreton and Bribie Islands, or the Sunshine Coast. If you choose to go south, there are the Tweed, Hastings or Richmond Rivers to name a few.

Getting started

Getting started is much easier now than it ever has been. Firstly, you need a licence which is easy to obtain by completing a Jet Ski training from an accredited organisation. And of course, you need a Jet Ski.

Since the arrival of the four-stroke engine in Jet Skis, they have become capable of doing thousands of hours of reliable service. There are many pre-owned Jet Skis to choose from in a very affordable price range from as low as $3,000. If reliable and designed for the conditions, they are all capable of adventure touring.

Spending some time with experienced riders will get you on the right track in a short time. You can join the social riding groups once you feel ready and begin exploring our wonderful waterways with like-minded friends.

By Mandy Brown, Jet Ski Club

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