10 Quick Tips About Jet Skis

In the 1960’s, Clayton Jacobsen II designed and constructed a machine that would bring fun, competition, and enjoyment to thousands of people for years to come. The creation of the first personal watercraft (PWC) has revolutionized water sports as we know it and has resulted in the mass use of jet skis. It is important for those who own or wish to own a jet ski to know how to get the best out of their jet ski. Check out Powerstride Battery’s 10 quick tips that will ensure the best jet skiing experience.

#1 What Brand is Best?

Three of the most popular jet ski brands are Yamaha, Kawasaki, and SeaDoo. Determining what brand and model is right for you wholly depends on two things: (1) what you are willing to spend and (2) will the jet ski be used for recreational or competitive use? These two questions should help anyone narrow down what PWC’s they might be interested in purchasing.

#2 Two Stroke or Four Stroke?

There are currently two types of jet skis on the market: the two stroke and four stroke. These names are derived from the number of strokes that the pistons take to complete a cycle within the engine.

Two Stroke

The two stroke engine is much lighter, contains 30 to 50% fewer parts, and makes it easier to clear water from the engine than the four stroke engine. However, the two stroke engine does have increased fuel consumption and hydrocarbon emissions. 

Four Stroke

The four stroke engine on the other hand has cleaner emissions, higher fuel efficiency, is quiet, and does not require oil to be mixed with the fuel unlike the two stroke engine. The four stroke engine weighs 50 to 90 pounds more and is significantly more difficult to clear water from the engine.  

#3 What Size?

Size purely depends on how you intend to use your jet ski once you have purchased it. Modern jet skis vary in size for the seating 1 to 5 people. Those involved in competitive racing will naturally purchase a jet ski for only one individual. However, those looking to accommodate their friends and family find the 3 to 5 seat jet skis more appealing.

#4 Purchase from a Dealer or Private Owner?

Competitive racers may wish to purchase a perfectly new jet ski but those looking to have fun with friends and family may appreciate a used jet ski that is within their price range. Buying a jet ski from a private owner does pose the risk of having to deal with any pre-existing conditions, however it is possible for individuals who purchase a jet ski from a dealer to experience similar problems. It really depends on what is convenient, comfortable, and affordable for you.

#5 The Best Battery for PWC’s

PWC batteries can range from $50 to nearly $250. The ideal situation is to find a battery that is not outrageously priced while still getting the desired performance from your PWC. Powerstride Battery recommends purchasing the POWER SOURCE WP16CL-BS. At $91.65 this battery is one of our most reliable, affordable, and popular batteries for jet ski use -- AND INCLUDES FREE SHIPPING!

#6 Daily Maintenance

When in use, it is recommended that you constantly maintain all fuels levels to ensure the maximum performance and overall health of your jet ski. When temporarily not in use, be sure to enclose your jet ski by using a protective cover. 

#7 What to Wear

It is important to maximize your experience and your safety when jet skiing by wearing proper clothing and equipment. You and any passengers should always wear a Coast Guard approved life jacket in addition to head and eye protection. Consider wearing deck or tennis shoes to help establish a firm footing to avoid possible injury. You may also wish to wear gloves to help maintain your grip on wet controls.

 #8 How to Ride

The most common water craft accidents involve jet skis. Because of this procedures and rules were created to help avoid these accidents.

Occasionally you will need to pass other water vessels. When doing so, it is imperative that you (1) remain as far away from the other water vessel as possible and (2) attempt to signal the other vessel via horn, whistle, etc. These actions will help minimize the potential of an accident and possible injury or death.

At all times you should be alert, careful, and smart in your decisions when operating your jet ski to reduce the risk of injuring yourself and those around you.

#9 Roll Over Recovery

At some point during your experience, you will inevitably flip your jet ski upside down. In the event of a roll over, lie across the back of the jet ski and grab hold of the side. Using your body weight, you should be able to pull the jet ski back into an upright position.

Another way to recover from a roll over is to move to the back of the jet ski and place one hand on the upside of the deck and the other hand beneath the deck. Then apply some force in a twisting fashion to roll your jet ski back into an upright position.

#10 Winterizing Your Jet Ski

At the end of the jet skiing season, it is imperative that you prepare your jet ski for storage i.e. “winterize” your jet ski.

First, drain as much water out of your jet ski as possible. This can be done by starting the engine when the jet ski is out of water and turning the steering handle from side to side. Turn off the engine and let the jet ski rest for 30 seconds and then repeat this process two or three more times. If you have been riding in salt water, be sure to rinse your entire jet ski with clean water allowing it to flush all the salt water out.

Rinse and wash your jet ski with warm soapy water and a sponge. Using a non-abrasive brush, attempt to clean any debris on the hull of the jet ski. Lastly, dry the jet ski as thoroughly as possible. It is then recommended that you wax your jet ski and use rust prevention and lube products on any metal hinges or handles.

Mix a tank of gas with the required amount of gas stabilizer and then using this mix, top off the tank. Turn on your jet ski and let it run for a minimum of five minutes to allow the gas mixture to reach all areas of the engine.

Finally, start your engine and spray fog oil into both carburetors until the engine stalls. Replace the spark plugs and air cleaners and remove and store the battery separately. Last, put a steel wool rag in your jet ski’s exhaust to prevent nesting bugs, and enclose your jet ski with a protective cover.   

Hope these tips help. Remember: Safety First, Danger Last! Have a future, not a past!