Would a bad ground effect RPMs???

[Fluid]

My ski is a 96 gsx. I was riding and the rpms started great up to 6800 rpm for like 10 seconds then wouldn't go above 5400 rpms. Then the ski started putting and cutting out then it just died, when I push the start button it would just click. After being towed out and a short ride home the negative side of the battery was slightly loose. I tightened it and it would start right up. Would that slightly loose ground cause this?

Thanks!

[1fastski.com]

Re: Would a bad ground effect RPMs???

a loose starter will do that , or any ground

[Ozzie Seadoo]

Re: Would a bad ground effect RPMs???

Absolutely! The ground wire completes the circuit. If it is corroded or there is a bad connection, you are essentially introducing resistance into the cable, which is essentially the same as putting a large resistance into the +ve wire. Any resistance that is not meant to be there will cause a voltage drop and the ignition system may not be able to operate properly. I was having a really bad experience with my XP running crappy when loaded-turned out to be old spark plug leads (even though they looked brand new)...the motto, keep you electrics in good shape and you'll have a reliable ski!