Advice Needed on 91 550

tiplickhahaha

Hummmmmmmmm
Location
Indianapolis, IN
Ok I just found out that I am going to get, for free, a used 91? 550, which from the owner hasn’t been used in 6 years, and from then hadn’t been taken out (maybe once a season) for 5 years before that. It was used in salt water. In other words it’s the biggest piece of **** in the world. It has only had one owner.

This is what the owner told me:

It’s got aftermarket pistons, aftermarket water box, and I believe a 440’s exhaust manifold. Other than that it’s all stock. (Expect for the general; impeller, ride plate, intake grate, etc nothing major) All the other pieces are still there, nothing missing.

Last time he took it out, (6 years ago) water was coming into the hull. The owner said the reason it was taking on water was because of the 440 exhaust manifold. No clue there….
He also said that a piston was seized?:frown: (I am hoping I misunderstood there), possibly because of sitting out for so long. Again no clue there….


I know the 550 isn’t the best ski in the world, and considering its age, the hull will probably need some reinforcing. This summer I want to just get into sport, while over the winter, perhaps start on a SJ project.

My plan is once I get it, to:

Take it apart, remove the engine,
Reinforce the hull,
Start putting the engine and such back together, going over every part, to make sure everything runs fine,

My goal is to reduce cost at the most, spending only when I have to. If $40 here and there will make vast improvements, I am sure I will spend the money. That statement, I know, is going to change.

I am seeking advice on how to remove the engine, and parts, and what to do when I get it ( such as making sure a engine is not seized, pressure testing, etc. etc. ) would removing everything and making sure the hull is in good condition/reinforcing be the first right step? I would think considering its age and its past abuse that would be the first step?

If it did need a engine rebuild, would SBT be the only choice? Looking a those prices, that’s a big hole in my wallet. What would a cheaper alternative be? Again, with the engine $40-$100 improvements that will show major gains, I don’t mind spending once or twice.

I feel this project will give me the experience i need to start a SJ build over the winter and ride it in the spring. It will be a great learning oppertunity.:biggthumpup:

This site is very helpful, and in advance, I thank you for your help. :arms: :Banane01: :woot:
 

john zigler

Vendor Account
Location
wisconsin
get yourself a shop manual for the ski. ( a clymers is fine).

read it from cover to cover, then go at it.

to be honest, you will have more into the the ski than it is probably worth, but it will be a good learning experience for you, and you won't have to pay 100's at a time.

good luck. zig
 
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