'97 GSX weak engine

[steve97fx]

I was riding last weekend and about 2 hours after being on the water the engine lost power and now will not plane the ski and runs extremely rough.

When out of the water, the engine fires right up and can rev to max rpm...only seems to have problems in the water, ie when a load is put on it.

Any ideas what could be causing this? Electrical?

[polaridoo]

Sounds like maybe engine damage (weak compression) or maybe carburetor issues.

[Bill O'Neal]

I agree. Check the compression. Usually, between 150 and 155 lbs......

If that checks out OK, remove the carbs and clean the filters inside of them.

[ July 25, 2003, 11:21 PM: Message edited by: Bill O'Neal ]

[steve97fx]

checked compression and found 135 psi on PTO and 140 on MAG.

Carbs were just cleaned last week. Tried to adjust choke in water to see any changes...nothing.

Changed spark plugs as well. Sounds electrical, maybe pickup or something in coils. Does anyone know of common problems with this engine and a way to check for the problems?

[polaridoo]

Really does not sound electrical to me since you get max RPM on the trailer.

Fuel pump and fuel filter OK?

Take the carbs apart and inspect again.

RAVE valves clean and operating?

[Bill O'Neal]

I am assuming your compression tester is not too acurate then, because you should see at least 150 psi at or near sea level.

So, It ran good for two hours, then started acting up? Any circumstances like getting water in the motor?

Maybe the rectifier needs replacing? Are the guages all functioning well ? Is there a warning on the multi function guage that flashes "12V Low" ?

[97GSX]

Hey Bill on my GSX I get the 12 volt low message. Could this mean a problem with the rectifier. I have been having problems with fouling of plugs, could this be caused by a faulty rectifier????
Thanks cHris

[shen]

Re: '97 GSX weak engine

Bill my GSx is doing the same thing,also got the 12volt low now..haven't cleaned or checked the rave valves though,

[Bill O'Neal2]

Re: '97 GSX weak engine

What has rave valves got to do with "12V low" warnings?

When you see 12v low, either replace the battery with a new battery or test the rectifier at the battery with a voltmeter. There are plenty of articles written here about how to test the rectifier. Do a search.