Technical Tips

Tech Tips
By Robert Hirko, Factory Pipe

Instructions

"Instructions are just the manufacturers opinion on how to install it" Tim Taylor of "Tool Time"

This bit of wisdom works for Tim, but it might not be such a good idea in the real world. Think about it, who has more experience with a product than the manufacturer? Use this to your advantage and thoroughly read the instructions before starting any parts installation on your PWC. Don't think that installing your new pipe, carbs, ignition system or impeller should be "self explanatory" and start tearing things apart! Many times the instructions will include tips and tricks that can save you lots of time and frustration.

Routine Maintenance

How many times have you had to cut your day on the water short because of a broken clamp, a split waterline or a blown gasket? Most of the time these minor problems could have been avoided with a little routine maintenance. Get in the habit of taking 10 minutes before you head to your favorite riding spot (and another 10 after you get home) to look over your boat for any potential problems. Most PWC owner's manuals provide a pre and post operation checklist of items that should be inspected each time you use the machine. Most of the items are easily checked and only require standard hand tools to adjust if required. Find out what the most common "wear" items (hose clamps, gaskets, waterlines, etc.) are on your particular model and carry some spares.

Pipe Couplers

Many high performance exhaust pipes use high temperature, silicone couplers to connect the pieces of the system together. These couplers not only provide a way to join the pipe but also act as shock absorbers to dampen the high vibrations of a two stroke engine. The key to keeping these couplers in good working order is following a few simple steps:

1. Thoroughly clean all the areas of the pipe that the coupler will come in contact with as well as the inside of the coupler itself.

2. Use only water or a Windex type spray to aid in the installation of the coupler. Never use WD40 or any oil based lubricant as these will cause the coupler to come apart during use.

3. Make sure that the connecting pieces inside the coupler are touching completely around with no gaps. Otherwise, very hot exhaust gas will be forced directly against the coupler and cause it to melt.

4. Do not over tighten the coupler clamps. This will cause the clamp to dig into the coupler material and split. A properly installed coupler will only require the clamps to be hand tight with a nut driver.