What to look for? 99 SJ, Stored for 3 years

[b.lee]

I'm going to look at 99 SJ on saturday.
It hasn't been in the water for 3 years.

The starter buzzes when hooked to a battery and tried to start.
Think it's a starter issue?

Can I easily access the driveshaft to spin the engine over?

What are some common things to watch out for?

 

[Matt_E]

Sounds like the battery is weak or the wires are loose somewhere.
If that isn't the case, the starter relay has a problem.
To turn it over by hand, remove the spark plugs and reach for the coupler underneath the coupler cover. You should be able to turn it over like that. Inspect the piston tops while you have the plugs out. Put your thumb on the spark plug hole while you turn it over. There should be some pressure buildup under your thumb as you turn it. (If there isn't, something is wrong)
Look at the impeller to check its condition. Overall engine cleanliness should tell you something about the ski in general.

 

[chriselmore_1]

Just makes a buzzing sound? My ski does that when one of the battery leads comes loose

 

[b.lee]

I just called him, it's sold, that sucks.
I'll still be using this thread for common things to lookout for... I gotta get an RN before summer starts.

 

[tor*p*do]

here yah go!
http://www.shopsbt.com/forum/showthread.php?t=13975

 

[b.lee]

here yah go!
http://www.shopsbt.com/forum/showthread.php?t=13975

hayzues!
Looking for something more specific to a superjet, but still a good article
maybe when I'm not at work I'll read the whole thing

 

[Shifty]

I see the Sj is sold but things I would look for next time:

Look into pump intake under hull, is the prop in good shape? Is it aftermarket, not the stock aluminium (crappy green color)?
Open E-Box fuse cover and look for water or signs of it.
Pull plugs and turn motor over by hand even if it starts (under black cover at rear of engine). Is is smooth and easily turned, no odd noises?
While your under the coupler cover, use your finger to make sure there is no fuel/oil leaking from the rear crank seal.
Check spark plugs to make sure the electrodes look right... no metal particals, corrosion, odd coloration (do they look identical, they should?)
Check for cracks under bondline and hull
Any standing water in hull? Oil, nuts or bolts?
Tug on motor to make sure the mounts are all intact.


Good Luck