How new does a seadoo have to be in order to NOT BREAK DOWN!!

[georgelathemjr]

I set out to buy a jet ski, but became a collector of broken down seadoos instead. First a 93 xp, unknown probs there, but needs to be torn down..afraid to put much money into it because its so old.. so bought a 95 xp and the motor is locked up.. then bought a 2001 xp which I rode for the first time today and it died after an hour, told its probably a compression problem. I dont have $10,000 for a new one, but at this rate I think I might spend that much on my "collection" , Anyway, someone once told me to never buy a boat over 5 yrs old, and I guess thats true with jet skis, but I see a lot of old ones around.. I even had this last one checked out, but I think if they are 7 yrs old or more, its a bit of a dice roll.. question is, what is the most reliable year models if I have to buy used.. and how new does it have to be before its such a gamble?
Thanks!

 

[Nate Surveyor]

New Ones break down!

Just, they have warranty!

So, my say is to learn a bit mechanically, and buy 1/2 way smart.

Nate

 

[Wire4Money]

I have a 94 spx and a 95 gtx. I did a lot of research first. I did a compression test on each one to make sure they were machanically sound. I also bought from people who took REAL good care of their PWC. (regular maint, garaged) Even a newer one wil break down if not taken care of. Good luck.

 

[JPX]

Hmmmm.....within the first 9 months of buying my 1996 HX new, the pump bearing ate itself and I needed a pump rebuild along with a new driveshaft. Factory warranty took care of that.

2.5 years from buying new, the exhaust pipe bolts worked loose and the vibration destroyed my exhaust pipe and filled up my hull with water. Extended warranty took care of that.

Carbs got all clogged up last year - 12 years from buying new. Rebuilt and back in business.

Buying used is always a little bit of a leap of faith. But I gotta say, even buying brand new wasn't a walk in the park even under warranty.