97 Challenger 787 Stator/Rectifier/Charge Problems

[Tudorc]

I have inherited a 97 Challenger that I'm trying to get running properly. I've rebuilt the carbs and reset to factory spec, replaced the fuel switch, changed plugs, changed filters, and checked compression (135) - mostly because I had no idea when any of that had been done, if ever. The primary symptom is that the engine revs unevenly and bogs out as soon as throttle is applied. There's a YouTube video of a ski (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kS1c53_xz_4) that had the same symptoms/issue and indicated it was a rectifier problem -and I now have a new one waiting to be installed.

Yesterday I discovered that the 15a charging system fuse was blown, and every time I replace and start the engine again, the fuse blows. From what I can gather, this indicates a shorted/broken stator issue - and the stator may need to be replaced(?). I've ordered one of those too...

A couple of questions: is there any way to test/isolate whether it is just the rectifier, the stator or both? I also don't want to install the new rectifier if the existing stator will damage it - will a broken stator damage the rectifier? How hard is it to replace the stator with the engine still in the boat? I don't have an easy way of getting the motor out of the boat and would have to take it to a pro if the engine needs to come out.

Any help would be appreciated.

 

[Steelmesh]

Check the stator windings for a short circuit. There is probably an Ohm spec somewhere. Anyway I googled this "seadoo how to check stator" and a PDF from SBT came up first listing, check that out maybe.

 

[Tudorc]

Hi Steelmesh - thanks for the info. It turned out to be the rectifier only blowing the fuse. That and 50/50 old/new gas which was causing issues. New gas and the new rectifier fixed it. I bought a new stator just in case... but I'll add that to the spare parts drawer.