How to Troubleshoot a Seadoo 800

The introduction of the personal watercraft came to the consumer market in 1968. The\ stand-up Sea-Doo model, a vehicle that operated like a snowmobile in water, was crafted by Clayton Jacobson II and sold under the Bombardier franchise. Today, several different manufacturers produce one to four person watercraft for recreational enjoyment. Among them, Bombardier still prevails as one of the largest manufacturers of personal watercraft. While the Sea-Doo models continue to outperform their competitors, there are times when these vehicles require extra maintenance.

Things You'll Need

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Voltage meter
  • Spark plugs
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Instructions

  1. Engine Won't Start

    • 1

      Check the lanyard, or Sea-Doo key, and make sure that you have the correct version for this particular model. While these lanyard keys all look the same, you must use the factory-cut model that came with your Sea-Doo to start the ignition. Inspect the lanyard itself for any noticeable damage and replace accordingly.

    • 2

      Open the seat of the Sea-Doo and check the battery connections. Make sure that both the positive and negative terminals are properly connected. Check these cables for any fraying or other physical damage. Disconnect these terminals with the adjustable wrench and check the power output with a voltage meter. Replace or charge the battery if necessary.

    • 3

      Inspect the fuse box behind your Sea-Doo's gauges for any blown fuses. A blown fuse will appear dark in color and have split wires. Pull each of the blown fuses out with a pair of pliers. Install new ones by hand.

    • 4

      Reconnect the negative and positive battery terminals and attempt to start your engine. If your engine still does not start but shows signs of a struggle, you need to service or replace your starter. Check the starter, located near the front of the motor, and make sure all of the electrical connections are secure.

    Poor Start or Backfiring

    • 5

      Check your engine's gas reserve to make sure you have enough fuel to power your Sea-Doo 800. Add more fuel if you find that you do not have enough gas. Your engine will start and then run poorly if the amount is severely low.

    • 6

      Inspect your Sea-Doo 800's spark plugs if you think that the poor start could be an ignition failure. Disconnect the battery before removing any damaged or worn spark plugs since you do not want any physical injury due to these electrical parts. Grab the boot of each spark plug, twist and pull out it of its secured position.

    • 7

      Reset the ignition timing on your personal watercraft if you suspect a faulty ignition due to continuous backfiring of the exhaust. Check your Sea-Doo owner's manual for specific timing values and set accordingly.

    • 8

      Locate the exhaust manifold and pipe of your Sea-Doo 800's engine. Inspect these areas for any leaks. A leaking gasket or faulty pipe connection will hinder the flow of exhausted gas through your motor. Replace any of these exhaust parts if necessary, improving the start and run of your personal watercraft.