1997 Gsi Oil Seal - wwyd?

[12vman]

I did an engine exchange with SBT back in 2018 due to stripped rotary gear.
I put a total of 15 hours on the machine across 2019 and 2020.
Toward the end of the 2020 season I couldn't get the engine started.
Upon further inspection I found that both cylinders were full of oil and the oil tank was empty.
The machine otherwise is in good shape, VTS still works but fuel gauge does not.
I am assuming this is a failed oil seal and would require a full teardown.
I have a single place trailer to go with it. Should I sell it or attempt to repair?
My main machine is a '13 GTI SE 130 but I like riding this once in a while.

Thanks in Advance,
-12vman

 

[Legacy37]

These engine oil seals are a pain in the rear...and obviously a poor design. There is another thread about repairing the seals using other methods...for a 787

 

[12vman]

I have the Rotax 717 does it also apply to this motor?

 

[POPPS]

Makes no sense,,,literally,,,a new motor,,,for the seals to be gone,,,

 

[mikidymac]

Makes no sense,,,literally,,,a new motor,,,for the seals to be gone,,,

But it's a SBT engine, LOL. Sorry couldn't resist.
Yes, no way a couple year old engine should have leaking crank seals.

 

[12vman]

I am bumping this thread again since it's spring and time for me to figure out what to do with this ski. I have seen where some people just go Pre-Mix on this engine and keep riding. Is it possible, is premix enough lubrication to keep the 717 alive? That large oil line from the oil tank to the bottom of the motor, is it bathing the bottom end of the motor? It's either that or just try to find a buyer for this ski and a single place trailer.

 

[AKnarrowback]

You CAN NOT solve this situation with premix. If you remove the oil injection you are also removing the oil supply that lubricates the chamber where the crankshaft and rotary valve shaft mesh. The inner crank seals appear to have failed and there isn't a way to fix the problem without replacing the crankshaft.

PM me and I can give you a suggestion on a "band aid". It is not a standard/proffesional fix, but it could help you.

 

[etemplet]

Install a valve like this in the large line coming off of the oil tank. Close the valve to shut of oil flow when you're finished riding the ski Open the valve when you are beginning your adventures. I find that I can leave my valve open as long as I ride the ski every few days but it is simple enough to just close the valve. My wife's ski sits for months at a time and starts right up. Otherwise after about 10 days the engine will lock up. I'm not sure how much oil it takes to lock up the engine but I'm thinking 3 ounces in the crank case will do it. Good Luck.