Super Jet 2008+ steering fix

[yamanube]

Obviously the 2008+ SJ steering is poor but how much better is it with the pre-08 setup?
I want to know that it gets much better before I buy a new pole, cable and steering.
Obviously the hull is different from the 96-07 skis, does this have a large influence on the steering?

 

[37]

I just did this mod to my '16 at the beginning of the season... RRP pole, homemade steering system (link) and an OEM '06/07 cable. Steering input was lethargic to the point of being difficult to ride. Now it's much closer to my '97 from 20 years ago. My '97 had a long plate, hull extensions and side sponsons, so from the best I can remember both skis felt just as long.

In short, it's a noticeable influence on the steering and worth doing. You can do without the pole but if you're considering an aftermarket pole anyway then now is the time to get a new cable.

Cheapest place I found the cable is $120 shipped. http://www.partshark.com/oemparts/p/yamaha/gm6-61481-10-00/cable-steering No association with this shop other than buying from them twice before.

 

[yamanube]

Thanks @37, that is exactly the information I needed. I think I will probably pick up a KP pole this winter and swap the cable. Is there another off the shelf option to put an old style cable on my 2008 pole? I know Wammer has one, I'd like to just buy the cable mount parts and source my own cable.

 

[Bryan.wells]

it makes a HUGE diff

 

[37]

Is there another off the shelf option to put an old style cable on my 2008 pole?

Wammer copied someone on here who used to make one. I'm not sure who it was, however. You can fabricate your own but if you're considering a KP then that alone will save time and hassle.

Had I not got my RRP lightweight dirt cheap, I'd have modified my stock pole. All you need is a way to sink a cable mount into the pole about 30mm if memory serves.

@yamanube Yup... you're right. Found it: http://www.x-h2o.com/index.php?threads/2008-2010-steering-system-new.68034/

 

[yamanube]

I think it was Shmitty or something....

 

[Pro-pulsion]

I had to make up a little bracket too when I had my old AC pole. I was told it was for 96-07 but when I got it I had to monkey around a lot with the cable later realizing it was an FX-1/08+ pole. But what I did was bent a flat piece of sheared stainless plate the length I needed, cut out the little half circle notch for the cable to sit in and locked in place with my limiting rope bolt. It worked out really well. Just keep a close eye on the cable sheath that you don't wear through it up there. My KP pole is awesome, I'm very happy I went with it, but one thing I have noticed is the steering cable should have a piece of braided water hose over it for protection where it leaves the tube at the bottom. My cable is starting to show wear on the sheath which leads me to believe the tube is a little sharp. Other than that it has been a great pole. If you do get one, this will be the only time I suggest this...use red loctite on the steering stop screw. Mine has come loose a few times as well as my U.M.I. turn plate center post. Use red only on those two spots and give it lots of time to fully cure. I tried using the red several times when the threads were not fully dry from a ride and/or didn't allow it a couple of weeks to really solidify and every time I went out, that plate post would thread out and leave me with a complete loose steering assembly hanging in my hands lol. It's a lot of fun trying to steer with no central post to work with lol