1.   Look at the Hull closely, Look and Run your fingers along the underside of the bond line and feel for cracks or splintered fiberglass. Definite signs of collision or abuse. A motor can be fixed but a hull is very hard to fix permanently.

2.   Check the engine compression. Start the engine for about 2-3 seconds. Then pull the Sparkplugs and secure them away from the engine gases. Now with the throttle wide open, spin the motor over for 1-2 seconds. The compression should be the same for all cylinders. 1 lower than the rest means a problem.

3.   Look at the Prop and pump area. If you have to crawl under the trailer, so be it! Look for broken vanes and chunks missing. A stock prop will work as long as it is not chewed up. Stainless Props are better, but not immune to abuse. Props start at $250 and go up, plus installation.

4.   When riding take note of the water line that sprays water overboard. This is the engine cooling water from the engine. No spray= no waterflow=overheating=burned up engine! Stop as soon as safely possible and look for a blockage or restriction. Also a damaged prop will not have enough lift to properly pump water to the engine.

5.    After you buy yours, remember to always make an effort to keep it dry. After the lake, blow it out lightly. not banging the rev limiter. At home in the garage turn off you gas valve and pop the seat open to let the engine compartment air out.  Spray down the engine with a light coating of WD-40 or other light oil. This will keep down corrosion. When its time to ride, take a tablespoon of regular laundry detergent, and drop it in the area below the engine. As you ride water will enter into this area and mix with the detergent. The sloshing will make a nice cleaning sensation and when you get home. Presto, nice, clean, shiny engine compartment.

6.    Only use Sea Doo brand oil in your Sea Doo. Its not that much more than the others. Sea Doo's oil injection system is made for Sea Doo brand oil. Try something else and you'll be rebuilding a engine.