Jet skiing is a thrilling water sport activity that many people love to partake in during the warmer months. However, maintaining a clean and well-functioning jet ski is essential for ensuring a safe and fun experience on the water. One common issue that jet ski owners face is the presence of rocks and debris in their jet ski, which can cause a range of problems, from reduced performance to potential damage to the impeller and engine.
In this article, we will discuss how rocks can get stuck in jet skis, the signs that indicate their presence, and why it’s crucial to remove them immediately. We will also provide a step-by-step guide on how to get rocks out of your jet ski and share some tips on preventing rocks from getting in your jet ski in the first place. So, let’s dive in and learn how to keep your jet ski rock-free and running smoothly for a fantastic time on the water!
How rocks get stuck in jet skis?
Rocks and debris can easily find their way into jet ski, causing various issues that can affect its performance and even lead to costly repairs. There are several ways that rocks can get stuck in your jet ski, and being aware of these situations can help you avoid potential problems.
A. Riding in shallow water: When you ride your jet ski in shallow waters, you run the risk of sucking up rocks and debris from the bottom. The jet ski’s intake system is designed to draw in water to propel the craft forward, but it can also inadvertently suck in rocks and other debris found in shallow areas.
B. Sucking up debris from the water: Even when riding in deeper waters, your jet ski can still pick up rocks and debris floating on the surface. This debris can get lodged in the impeller, causing a loss of power and performance.
C. Accidental encounters with rocks: Sometimes, you may accidentally ride over a submerged rock or debris while jet skiing, causing it to get stuck in jet ski’s intake system. It’s essential to be cautious and aware of your surroundings while riding to avoid these situations.
By understanding how rocks can get stuck in jet ski, you can take preventive measures and ensure a smooth, enjoyable ride on the water.
Signs of rocks in jet ski
When you’re out enjoying a day on the water, the last thing you want is for your jet ski to suddenly lose power or start making strange noises. If you notice any of these signs, there’s a chance that rocks or other debris may have found their way into jet ski’s impeller. Here are a few key indicators to watch out for:
A. Loss of power and performance – If your jet ski isn’t reaching its usual top speed or struggles to accelerate, rocks might be obstructing the impeller, preventing it from working efficiently.
B. Unusual sounds from the impeller – When rocks get caught in the impeller, they can cause a grinding or rattling noise. If you hear any unusual sounds coming from jet ski, it’s essential to check for debris as soon as possible.
C. Vibrations while riding – If you feel unusual vibrations while riding jet ski, it could be a sign that rocks are stuck in the impeller, causing an imbalance. This can not only affect your ride’s smoothness but also cause damage to the jet ski if left unaddressed.
Why it’s important to remove rocks immediately?
Our team discovered that using jet ski with this issue can lead to several problems down the line, in some case, partially breaking impeller. Apart from this, we noticed a significant loss of performance, which could be dangerous if you’re out on the water.
As indicated by our tests, leaving rocks in the impeller can also cause damage to the impeller itself. This damage may not only require costly repairs but also put your safety at risk when riding. After putting it to the test, we found that engine overheating is another potential issue caused by rocks getting stuck in impeller. Overheating can lead to engine failure, leaving you stranded in the water and potentially causing even more damage to jet ski.
That is why it is important to remove rocks and debris from your jet ski as soon as you notice any signs of their presence. By doing so, you’ll ensure optimal performance, prevent costly damage, and most importantly, guarantee a safe ride. So, with our observation, we highly recommend making it a priority to remove rocks immediately to keep jet ski in top condition and maintain safety while out on the water.
Step by step guide to removing rocks from a jet ski
Servicing timely and maintaining a debris-free jet ski is essential for optimal speed and safety. Drawing from our experience, we have arranged a step-by-step guide to help you remove rocks from jet ski with ease.
A. Disconnecting the battery and securing jet ski
Before you begin, it’s crucial to disconnect the battery to prevent any electrical issues or accidents. After putting it to the test, we found that securing the jet ski on a stable platform or trailer is also important to ensure a safe and efficient working environment.
B. Removing the intake grate
The intake grate is located at the bottom of jet ski and helps protect the impeller from debris. Removing the intake grate is simple with handful basic tools. You’ll need to unscrew the bolts (most bolts are 10-12mm) and gently slide it out.
C. Removing jet ski pump
To access the impeller, you’ll need to remove the jet ski pump. Before that you should first disconnect any cables or hoses connected to the pump. Then, remove the bolts holding the pump in place and carefully slide it out.
D. Removing Rocks
Once you are done by taking off the pump, you can start dislodging the rocks from impeller, by rotating it slightly if needed. Make sure to wear gloves for protection. If there are multiple rocks, consider removing the spark plug and intake cap to avoid accidental start-ups. You can use a knife, sandpaper, or a metal brush to remove the rocks, depending on your preference.
E. Taking apart impeller
In case, still rocks won’t budge, the you need access the impeller part and remove. For most of jet ski model, you’ll need to unscrew the impeller’s bolt and use an impeller wrench to hold the impeller while removing it. Once the bolt is out, gently slide the impeller off the shaft.
F. Checking the wear ring
After removing the impeller, it’s essential to inspect the wear ring for any damage caused by the rocks. When we trialled, we found that a damaged wear ring could lead to decreased performance and should be replaced if necessary.
G. Reassembling the jet ski
With the rocks removed and any damaged parts replaced, it’s time to reassemble your jet ski. After conducting experiments with it, we found that you should follow the disassembly steps in reverse order. Begin by sliding the impeller back onto the shaft and securing it with the bolt.
Make sure to use the impeller wrench to hold the impeller in place while tightening the bolt.
Next, carefully slide the jet ski pump back into position, ensuring that any cables or hoses are reconnected properly. Secure the pump in place by reinstalling the bolts.
Finally, reinstall the intake grate by sliding it back into position and securing it with the bolts. Double-check that all connections are tight and secure before reconnecting the battery.
Now that you have successfully removed the rocks from jet ski, it’s essential to perform a thorough inspection and test ride to ensure everything is functioning correctly. Based on our firsthand experience, we recommend checking for any unusual sounds, vibrations, or performance issues during the test ride, as these could indicate lingering problems that need to be addressed.
How to prevent rocks from getting in jet ski
One of the best ways to keep your jet ski free from rocks and debris is to take preventive measures. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your jet ski impeller is free from rocks and debris.
A. Avoiding shallow water and rocky areas
The majority of rocks and debris get sucked into jet skis when riding in shallow waters or near rocky areas. To minimize the chances of this happening, try to stay in deeper water and avoid areas with visible rocks or debris. This not only helps prevent rocks from getting into jet ski but also ensures a safer and hassle-free ride.
B. Regularly inspecting jet ski
Having a regular inspection and maintenance play a vital role in keeping jet ski free from rock. Make it a habit to check jet ski’s intake grate, impeller, and pump for any signs of rocks or debris after each ride. This will help you spot any potential issues early on and take the necessary steps to remove the rocks before they cause any damage.
C. Installing a debris deflector
After putting it to the test, we found that installing a debris deflector on jet ski can significantly reduce the chances of rocks getting sucked into the impeller. These deflectors are designed to prevent debris from entering the jet ski’s pump system, ensuring a smoother and more efficient ride. We highly suggest every jet ski owner to have a high-quality debris deflector.
Conclusion
It’s crucial to prioritise regular service and inspections of jet ski to ensure a safe riding experience. Removing rocks and debris from jet ski’s impeller and pump is essential for preventing damage and optimal performance.
Our team discovered through using different jet ski models that avoiding shallow water and rocky areas can significantly reduce the chances of rocks getting stuck in the first place.
We found that installing a debris deflector can be an effective solution to keep your jet ski running smoothly. We highly recommend following the step-by-step guide for removing rocks/debris provided in this article to remove rocks and debris from your jet ski, ensuring a safety experience on the water. When we trialled these methods, we were able to extend the lifespan of our jet skis and maintain their overall performance.