Jet Skis are a common sight on South African beaches and enclosed bodies, such as Langebaan Lagoon. It is a perfect way to have a thrilling adventurous time on water. If you own or have experienced Jet Skis, you probably know what we are talking about. In this article, we will talk about how to care for your Jet Ski in South Africa.
How to Care for Your Jet Ski in South Africa?
First thing first, the most essential thing for a jet ski is a Jet Ski Lift. Usually, it is like a floater but made for Jet Skis, like this one. These floaters prevent direct contact with water when your jet ski is not in use.
Alternately, some may prefer storing their jet skis indoors, usually on a trailer.
Do it however you like, but know that it is important to maintain minimal contact with water when you are not using the jet ski. Make sure your jet ski is safely stored though, like, do not let it roll on the ground.
Anyway, jokes apart, if you let your jet ski sit in water for long, it will degrade over time. Be it saltwater or freshwater, it will degrade your jet ski’s hull with live growth or metal corrosion.
Maintaining your Jet Ski
Proper care means regularly maintaining your Jet Ski.
It is not an exhausting endeavour to care for your jet ski. With a few simple items on your maintenance checklist, you can expect your jet ski to endure the hardships for the years to come. Let’s take a look at it.
What to Refer To When Maintaining Your Jet Ski?
When you buy a Jet Ski, it comes with an owner’s manual. The owner’s manual has all the information you need about your jet ski, including how to maintain it. These model-specific instructions and procedures are important and you must adhere to it.
It is also important if you are servicing your jet ski from a third-party shop. The manual will help you understand the right procedures to service your jet ski.
Fueling your Jet Ski and Disposal of Old Fuel
Your engine runs on, you guessed it, fuel!
But if your jet ski is sitting for too long, say 3 months, the fuel will start degrading. And bad fuel is bad news for your jet ski’s engine integrity.
Before you take out your jet ski for a cruise, always check on fuel conditions. If it is old—looks murky and has a stronger odour—consider changing it immediately. If it is little in quantity, you may consider mixing it with fresh fuel to dilute it, which is okay for your engine.
Check for any Loose Parts or Damage
One thing you absolutely would want to check is any sort of damage or loose parts. This includes damage to wiring components, the engine, and the outer body.
This is crucial as you do not want to find out your jet ski has damage after you take it out for a drive.
Always be on the lookout for loose/damaged/worn parts and fix or patch them if it is within your abilities; or consider replacing them if necessary. Do not dwell on these issues as they can develop into critical issues if left unattended.
Keep your Jet Ski clean
As mentioned earlier, your jet ski may accumulate live growth and other ‘garbage’ from the waters you drive on. You should consider cleaning your jet ski’s exterior at least once every two months. These foreign things can quickly wear down your hull if left unattended.
If you are taking your jet ski to the ocean, please consider a more frequent cleaning routine.
Lubrication
A well-oiled lubricated machine runs well and lasts for years to come. Your jet ski is also a machine, ultimately. While not as frequently, you should consider changing the engine oil and pump oil, lubricating seals and bearing fittings, and lubricating all the crucial parts of your jet ski.
Conclusion
Taking care of your jet ski in South Africa is not really a huge responsibility given that you regularly maintain it. Regular maintenance is also financially important as damage to vital parts can cost you a small fortune. So yes, take care of your jet ski and it will take great care of you when you are on the water.
You cannot drive a jet ski in South Africa without a proper license. We have explained about those in another jet ski article: Owning a Jet Ski in South Africa? Here’s what you need to know!
If you wish to obtain an RYA PWC license, our experts at Skipper Training SA can assist you. We are an RYA-accredited institution based in Cape Town. Contact us today for more information on the subject.
