2004 SX230

[Dropped74]

I am going to look at a very nice SX230 today and wanted to know what I should be looking for. It has 80 hours on it and just had the 100 hour tune up. I’m pretty new to this so just want to make sure I don’t end up with a rotten boat. I appreciate everyone’s time and input!

Nolan

 

[feziwig]

Take a look here

https://jetboaters.net/threads/known-issues-for-boat-years-2003-2009-with-mr1-engines.15464/

 

[Dropped74]

Thank you! Some great reading material!

 

[Gym]

I hope you're not telling us that a 2004 (14 - 15 year old boat) just had it's first oil ,filter and spark plug change because it hasn't hit 100 hours yet.

The #3 spark plugs have a habit of snapping off in the engine block due to rust. For this reason most of us have learned to use anti-seize compound on the plug threads in addition to changing them annually. Also oil filters have been known to rust and leak if not changed seasonally or at least every other year.

If this is a garage queen I would look it over very carefully. Better yet bring it to a Yamaha boat/jet ski dealer to have them check it out. Definately take it for a test ride. Make sure the clean out plugs can be removed easily.

 

[Dropped74]

No, no, it’s had services. He just went ahead and did the 100 hour service as he was about to sell the boat. He has given me the shops info so I can call and talk to them about the history.

If it is a boat I like, I would pay to have a buyers inspection done, just to make sure compression and everything I don’t know to check for checks out.

Thanks for the response all great things to look for when looking it over!

 

[Dropped74]

Take a look here

https://jetboaters.net/threads/known-issues-for-boat-years-2003-2009-with-mr1-engines.15464/

I tried opening some of the links and it wouldn’t allow me to. Do you think this is my phone or something in the links?

 

[scot71]

Just a word of warning about "Mod Fever". You may think the boat just needs one or two upgrades, but believe me. Once you get started it's hard to stop.
Good luck with the possible purchase. I love our '04 SX230.

 

[Dropped74]

Just a word of warning about "Mod Fever". You may think the boat just needs one or two upgrades, but believe me. Once you get started it's hard to stop.
Good luck with the possible purchase. I love our '04 SX230.

I am very afraid of this, knowing my history with vehicles!

 

[Dropped74]

Did sea trial today. It was pretty loud at open throttle. Is this normal. Is there anything you can do to help quiet it down? At idle one motor had more noise to it than the other. Not sure if it’s concerning but also not sure if it’s normal?

Handled great. One owner boat. Didn’t sink.

 

[BlkGS]

The engines are maximized versions of the r1 motorcycle engine. They're loud, and spin to 10k rpm. Much has been tried to quiet them down, many threads on soundproofing. I cant comment on the effectiveness as I havent done much, on my lake i rarely have the room to open it up.

They're great boats overall. Easy to work on, reliable, and fairly spacious. We love our 07.

 

[Gym]

The one engine that's loud may be due to the impeller contacting the wear ring or ut could be cavitation. At what power setting did you hear it?

 

[Dropped74]

The engines are maximized versions of the r1 motorcycle engine. They're loud, and spin to 10k rpm. Much has been tried to quiet them down, many threads on soundproofing. I cant comment on the effectiveness as I havent done much, on my lake i rarely have the room to open it up.

They're great boats overall. Easy to work on, reliable, and fairly spacious. We love our 07.

Good to know. Usually between wind and motors it’s always loud so not huge issue but it initially caught me by surprise. I don’t feel it’s a deal breaker. Just want to make sure it’s normal

 

[Dropped74]

The one engine that's loud may be due to the impeller contacting the wear ring or ut could be cavitation. At what power setting did you hear it?

From idle to 10k Rpm

 

[Dropped74]

Just closed the deal at 11k. Hope that’s a good deal

 

[BlkGS]

You stole it at 11k. Itd be likely around 18k here.

 

[scot71]

Sounds like a great deal to me.

 

[Gym]

From idle to 10k Rpm

I would check impeller clearance. look for rub marks on the wear ring. Also check the exhaust hoses, clamps and exhaust manifold inside engine compartment. In any event you got this boat cheap enough that any of those issues I mentioned still make this a good deal.

 

[scot71]

I'm not sure why one engine would seem louder than the other, but the engines being louder than you expected is just the way the MR1 engines are. You'll get used to it pretty quickly. Besides, it gives you a good reason for adding amps and more speakers...lol. LET THE MODS BEGIN!

CONGRATULATIONS!

 

[Milwmarc]

You stole it at 11k. Itd be likely around 18k here.

Great deal..i was looking 3 years..finally found a 06 ar 230 for 18k..and thought i got that cheap..yours is a steal!

 

[scot71]

You all probably don't want me to tell you what I paid for our SX230....lol!