How To Purge Water From Your Jet Ski Engine

Water in your jet ski engine is not something you want, but it’s not always avoidable. Water enters the engine through normal use on rough waves, but if you don’t remove it quickly, the water can end up causing some serious damage. It’s important to purge water from your jet ski engine quickly before things get out of hand; what does purging the engine actually look like?

Locate the Drain Plugs

First, locate the drain plugs on the hull of your personal watercraft (PWC). They are usually at the lowest points of the hull to facilitate drainage. Once you’ve found them, remove the plugs using a socket wrench. Be sure to keep the plugs in a safe place so you can reinstall them after purging the water.

Tilt the Jet Ski

Next, tilt your PWC at an angle so that the drain plugs are at the lowest point. This position encourages more water to follow the pull of gravity. Keep in mind that jet skis are heavy, so you may need a jack or an assistant to help you get the vessel at the right angle.

Soak Up Remaining Water

Using a towel or sponge, soak up the remaining water in the engine compartment. Be thorough in this step to ensure no water stays in the engine. Pay extra attention to those hard-to-reach areas where water might pool.

Flush the Engine

Now, start the engine again and let it run for a few minutes. If you have a marine engine flush kit, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use it now. Flushing can help to remove debris as well as water stuck in the engine. If possible, try to use fresh water for the flush to minimize the risk of corrosion in the engine.

Reinstall the Drain Plugs

Finally, turn off the engine and reinstall the drain plugs. This step is important for making sure your jet ski is both safe and water-free. Outside of purging, consider inspecting the drain plugs and seals regularly so you can spot signs of wear and tear and replace them when needed.

Purging water from your jet ski engine could seem complicated, but with these simple steps, you can make sure the engine is safe and water-free. Other parts of PWC care include staying on top of inspections and looking for and fixing leaks. At SBT, we know the importance of jet ski care, and with our selection of jet ski drive shafts and other parts, maintenance can be easy. Choose us as your reliable jet ski partner!