Restoring an older model personal watercraft can be a rewarding experience upon completion. If you’ve lived by the water most of your life, you should be at least remotely familiar with personal watercraft, perhaps even intimately familiar. This read is for those personal watercraft enthusiasts who want to restore a personal watercraft. The phrase “how to restore a jet ski” is not necessarily how to rebuild carburetors or pumps, but how to approach a restoration project from day one. First of all, it’s important to note that the people who can best afford to restore a jet ski usually don’t. Those who cannot afford restoration projects are often the ones who want and ultimately attempt them. Many times, these projects are usually undone because the owner did not adequately anticipate the cost. Repairing superior personal watercraft is rarely a good deal. Money is a very important aspect in these projects.
If you’re strapped for cash, it’s probably a mistake to think you can do a full restore. Looking at it from another angle, however, taking a well-designed, well-built vintage jet ski and restoring it can be the most cost-effective way to get on a good quality jet ski that you might not otherwise be able to afford. Older models tend to have fewer bells and whistles, but when you’re cruising the water with a breeze in your hair, does that really matter? As for your best investment, the economics of such a project may work out because much of the investment will be old-fashioned elbow grease. The similarities between jet skis and old houses are uncanny. This is evident by watching almost any home improvement show on television. Someone takes an old house, restores and rebuilds it, and makes lots of profit and pride. Restoring an early model personal watercraft, or even a late model personal watercraft with massive hours, can yield high resale value in some cases, but the pride of a self-restored personal watercraft it is a guarantee.
Here are some basics to guide anyone in the right direction regarding their own jet ski restoration project. First, there is a question of legalities. Make sure the jet ski comes equipped with a title deed or some form of legitimate registration. One could only imagine the horror of a fully restored personal watercraft not legal to operate on public waters. Of course, laws vary greatly between states, so check your locality with the department of motor vehicles or other appropriate government office. Now for the fun… The hull of the boat must be in good condition and not require any kind of substantial rebuilding. A solid foundation is the best way to start any project. If you plan on investing your hard-earned money, make sure it’s a desirable model based on the chance you’ll need to resell it at some point. Do your financial homework, an accurate estimate of total cost is essential for any project. Next, of course, make sure you have the funds allocated to complete the job, maybe even a buffer is a good idea. Too many projects remain incomplete due to lack of funding. Very liberal consideration must also be given to total restoration time. It will most likely take approximately twice as long to complete your project than originally anticipated. Since personal watercraft are a seasonal vehicle in most cases, off-season work would be best so there is no rush to the critical parts of your job. Patience is key from start to finish.
Another thought to consider is part outsourcing. If there is any part of the engine or hull where an expert can achieve better or longer lasting results, do so. There’s no shame in hiring a restoration party if you feel you can’t do the best job on your own. Some mechanics are not good electricians and vice versa. It is important to know when assistance is needed. Painting or restoring the hull with a custom paint scheme is a great example of something that may need to be handled by a professional.
However, these types of restoration projects are not for everyone. But for those who have the desire, skill, time, and a lot of money, such projects can be rewarding and ultimately enjoyable. Perhaps the trick to your success is to attack restoration with an entrepreneurial attitude. We guarantee that you will feel like a million bucks the day you put the jet ski back on the water.