Understanding the Differences in Kawasaki 550 Skis

[brapperdoodle]

Im interested in a 550 project and been reading about them. Can anyone give some information on the changes in hull and engine design over the years? I understand there are differences between the JS550 and the 550SX, also PP and reed engines. Just looking for some correct info! Thanks!

 

[Sanoman]

This link will give you a history of the development of the jetski.Not exactly what you asked for,but will give you the background on what led up to stand ups.
You should be able to research from there about how 440's skis progressed

https://m.facebook.com/JETSKIHistor...rsonal-water-craftabout-clay/781536788622997/

 

[brapperdoodle]

This link will give you a history of the development of the jetski.Not exactly what you asked for,but will give you the background on what led up to stand ups.
You should be able to research from there about how 440's skis progressed

https://m.facebook.com/JETSKIHistor...rsonal-water-craftabout-clay/781536788622997/

Damn that’s a really interesting read! Thanks!

I am also looking for info on when they made model changes to the 550 and what those changes are

 

[mikidymac]

It’s been a long time but from what I remember the 550 was pretty much the same from like 86-90. 1991 it became the 550 SX with the rear exhaust and rubber tray caps and 1992 got the reed motor. I think 1995 was the last year but only new graphics since 1992.

 

[brapperdoodle]

It’s been a long time but from what I remember the 550 was pretty much the same from like 86-90. 1991 it became the 550 SX with the rear exhaust and rubber tray caps and 1992 got the reed motor. I think 1995 was the last year but only new graphics since 1992.

So 1992-1995 are the preferred years?

 

[TheBuzzard]

82-85 has the donkey dick on the left side and the very primitive exhaust system under the hood.
86-89 has the exhaust outlet on the right side bottom deck and came with the jetpower 550 loaf of bread pipe.
90 was the first year of the sx with the rubber tray, rear exh and upgraded driveline system, but still came with the piston port motor.
91-95 sx had the reed motor.
you can always tell a 440 from a 550 at a glance. no 440s came with rear side sponsons. all 550s do unless somebody removed them.
the 750 came out in 92 so there were fewer 550s sold after that and 94-95 550s are pretty rare but no better than the 91s.
91-95 reed skis are the best of the 550s but the price on clean ones has gone up a quite a bit in the last few years