How to Repaint a WaveRunner

Your Yamaha WaveRunner may be an irreplaceable outlet for summer thrills, but it undoubtedly endures a great deal of wear and tear as its recreational potential is maximized. Unfortunately, the level of upkeep on such a jet ski may be directly correlated with the level of fun it provides. This is often reflected in your WaveRunner’s paint job, as friction takes its toll. Just as you would quickly touch up any faded or chipping areas of paint around your house, you can tend to these individual worn-out areas of your personal watercraft without the aid of a professional.

Things You'll Need

  • Jet ski or boat cleaner
  • Clean rag
  • Bucket of water
  • Towel
  • Sandpaper
  • Tack cloth
  • Seat cover
  • High-build primer
  • Spray paint gun
  • Paint thinner
  • Paint
  • Stirring stick
  • Clear coat paint (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Dampen your rag with an ammonia-based cleaner. Apply it to the surface of the WaveRunner and scrub vigorously. Repeat as needed on exceptionally dirty areas. Pour water over the cleaned areas to rinse and wipe dry.

    • 2

      Select the locations to be repainted. Sand each faded or chipping area with fine grain sandpaper. Sand the entire painted surface if you wish to repaint the whole WaveRunner. Use a tack cloth to remove the dust from sanding.

    • 3

      Place a seat cover over the seat of the WaveRunner to protect it from paint.

    • 4

      Fill your spray gun with primer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Spray primer on the surface of each area you intend to paint. Clean your spray gun while the primer dries.

    • 5

      Mix paint and thinner together in a bucket. Maintain the ratio of approximately two parts paint per one part thinner. Stir well, then fill your spray gun with the mixture.

    • 6

      Spray a coat of paint over each sanded and primed area. Maintain a consistent distance as you spray for evenness. Let dry, then repeat.

    • 7

      Clean your spray gun and fill with clear coat paint. Coat the newly painted surfaces once with clear coat, if desired. Let dry.