Freestyle Weird spark issue (sparks when I stop pressing start button)

BradyK

BradyK

Location
GA
So I’ve been fighting this problem since the beginning of the summer when I first went to put the ski in the water. Engine turns over easily, strong and even compression, etc. acted like I wasn’t getting spark so I check the spark and it appeared to be strong. I rebuilt the carbs considering I’d been meaning to do so, so I just did it anyways to knock it out (irrelevant to my problem). I then tried to start it again and same thing. After looking into it more, I checked the spark and it only seems to spark as soon as I let off the start button... when I was grounding the plug to check the spark my finger pressing the button got shocked (not sure if this is important). Anyone know what would cause my plugs to fire as soon as I release the start button? Also let me include that I’ve yet to get it to run due to this, so even though it sparks when i release the button it’s only briefly and not enough to start the ski completely, just sputters and dies. It’s been killing me, just want to ride lol


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OCD Solutions

OCD Solutions

Original, Clean and Dependable Solutions
Location
Rentz, GA
Me too but if it was installed and running prior, then it is a very common symptom of a failed MSD and swapping the CDI would be your next move.

I would tag and hold onto the MSD though as a weak stator will present in the CDI. I have gotten back up and running by swapping the CDI, (RIVA to MSD) only to find it just bought me a month of riding before the stator failed altogether.
 
BradyK

BradyK

Location
GA
The OCD Garage said:
Me too but if it was installed and running prior, then it is a very common symptom of a failed MSD and swapping the CDI would be your next move.

I would tag and hold onto the MSD though as a weak stator will present in the CDI. I have gotten back up and running by swapping the CDI, (RIVA to MSD) only to find it just bought me a month of riding before the stator failed altogether.
Click to expand...

Ski ran last in September, been in a garage since so I went to fire it up and it’s been doing this. Hasn’t given me any similar problems like this prior. How would I know if it was the pulser coil vs a bad MSD?


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OCD Solutions

OCD Solutions

Original, Clean and Dependable Solutions
Location
Rentz, GA
There are static tests, (found in the service manual), you can do to test components but swapping them with “known good” replacements is usually much faster and more conclusive.

Sending a stator off to JSS for some bulletproofing is a very wise investment as well.

It’s not cheap but it’s worth it. Preventable ignition issues keep far too many people off the water for way longer than they should.
 
Last edited:
BradyK

BradyK

Location
GA
Will do, thanks for the advice! I’ll test the MSD asap and post what I come up with


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