Checklists

[K447]

I had a request to provide a check list for first ride, test ride situations. Thought I should assemble something useful here.

Posts and links I am looking for; Contributions welcome

Pre-first launch checklist

Put the drain plugs in! Then check them again at the ramp

You do not ride to 'test'. You test, observe check, confirm, then ride.

Is the plastic battery cover in place?

If the carburetor engine revs way high when started out of the water and then doesn't stop when the lanyard is pulled, kill it by applying full throttle or choke. Then go fix the engine properly.

Watercraft strapped to the trailer on the launch ramp, jet pump submerged. What to do, what to check for...

Testing is testing, not riding. No passengers.

Testing and checking takes time.

Do not launch until you have properly maintained, checked, and serviced the machine. Testing does not fix things.

Check hoses for wear and damage from rubbing in hidden locations

Check MSX exhaust hose at hull exit

Confirm continuous bilge pump operation (when engine is running).

Look under drive shaft for possible through-hull leakage

Bilge siphon hoses properly positioned, not clogged at inlet screens.

Check for leaks at rear end of Virage through-hull plastic fitting
Another Virage leak post

Applying throttle while strapped to the trailer

Some water leaks only happen when engine RPM is high.

First actual launch and test ride, what to do, what to check for

Checklist before leaving home. What to do, what to check, how to prepare

Engine can be test started dry for 10-20 seconds on trailer.

Note: MSX 110 and MSX 150 MUST be started in Reverse when not in the water, to limit turbo engine RPM.

Is the battery ACTUALLY strong and healthy? If not, do not leave home. Get a better battery.

Still using an old style lead-acid battery? Make sure the battery vent tube is connected to the battery.

Riding with the seat off - checking for possible trouble

Throttle response should be consistent and snappy. Engine operation should be reliable. No stalling, no rough idle, consistent and responsive. If it isn't, then it is not working properly.

Equipment and gear; what to take, how to stow it

Tow ropes

Hose pinch pliers if needed prior to being towed

Pre-every ride checklists and procedures

Engine requires excessive cranking or priming after sitting

Reverse Flush water manifold connection must be capped or closed before launching

Trailer configuration

We have an entire section dedicated to trailers.

Bow roller location
Winch strap goes UNDER to pull the bow DOWN onto the roller.

PWC launch ramp and re-load process

[elk river rascal]

Yes, tis smart to have a pre flight check list. Last aug, got up early, for the yearly Grand lake of the cherokees bobber drop. Backed the ski into the water, putting on vest, and forgot the hull drain plugs!

Needless to say, by the time I got out on the water, most of the bobbers were plucked!

In the upper 30's right now, almost snowing, garden in danger of freezing, this is Michigan weather, not Oklahoma!

[bwhitsonjr]

Thanks Keith! Awesome thread and very helpful! I'm sure all new people to this sport will find it helpful!

[Fink]

If speaking of checking out a new to you ski, I have to say a good look at the jet pump, ride plate, and intake grate would be called for.

Also, a few checks on the trailer should be in order as well. I spotted the broken bunk on mine before first launch, so I was prepared. Had I not it would have been a different story when I launched the ski and the port side bunk floated up in two pieces.

I noticed there is no link on pinching off the hose for towing. I haven't seen anything other than a mention of doing this here or there. I'm still not really sure about what needs to happen. Simple as it may be a picture here would be very helpful.