READ THIS FIRST!

WARNING
For your safety, read this Owner’s Manual and understand it thoroughly before operating this JET SKI water-
craft. This manual contains the warnings given here for your immediate attention plus other important informa-
tion.
To reduce the risk of SEVERE INJURY or DEATH:

WEAR A PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE (PFD).

All riders must wear a Coast Guard approved
PFD that is suitable for personal watercraft
(PWC) use.

WEAR PROTECTIVE CLOTHING.

Severe internal injuries can occur if water is
forced into body cavities as a result of falling
into water or being near the jet thrust nozzle.
Normal swimwear does not adequately protect
against forceful water entry into lower body
cavities. All riders must wear a wet suit bottom
or clothing that provides equivalent protection
(see Owner’s Manual).
Footwear, gloves, and goggles/glasses are rec-
ommended.

KNOW BOATING LAWS.

Kawasaki recommends a minimum operator age
of 16 years old. Know the operator age and train-
ing requirements for your state. A boating safety
course is recommended and may be required in
your state.
ATTACH ENGINE SHUT–OFF CORD (LANYARD)
to wrist and keep it free from handlebars so that
the engine stops if operator falls off. After riding,
remove cord from PWC to avoid unauthorized
use by children or others.

RIDE WITHIN YOUR LIMITS AND AVOID AG-

GRESSIVE MANEUVERS to reduce the risk of
loss of control, ejection, and collision. This
is a high performance boat – not a toy. Sharp
turns or jumping wakes or waves can increase
the risk of back/spinal injury (paralysis), facial
injuries, and broken legs, ankles, and other
bones. Do not jump wakes or waves. DO NOT
APPLY THROTTLE WHEN ANYONE IS AT REAR
OF PWC – turn engine off or keep engine at idle.
Water and/or debris ejected from the jet thrust
nozzle can cause severe injury. KEEP AWAY
FROM INTAKE GRATE while engine is on. Items
such as long hair, loose clothing, or PFD straps
can become entangled in moving parts resulting
in severe injury or drowning.

NEVER RIDE AFTER CONSUMING DRUGS OR

ALCOHOL
Collisions result in more INJURIES AND
DEATHS than any other type of accident for
personal watercraft (PWC).

TO AVOID COLLISIONS:
SCAN CONSTANTLY for people, objects, and
other watercraft. Be alert for conditions that
limit your visibility or block your vision of oth-
ers.
OPERATE DEFENSIVELY at safe speeds and
keep a safe distance away from people, objects,
and other watercraft.
• Do not follow directly behind PWCs or other
boats.
• Do not go near others to spray or splash them
with water.
•Avoid sharp turns or other maneuvers that
make it hard for others to avoid you or under-
stand where you are going.
• Avoid areas with submerged objects or shallow
water.

TAKE EARLY ACTION to avoid collisions. Re-

member, PWCs and other boats do not have
brakes.

DO NOT RELEASE THROTTLE WHEN TRYING

TO STEER away from objects – you need throttle
to steer. Always check throttle and steering con-
trols for proper operation before starting PWC.

Follow navigation rules and state and local lows

that apply to PWCs.
 CAUTION
Take proper care of your new JET SKI watercraft. Here are some of the cautions contained in this manual
which must be followed for the protection of your watercraft. Be sure to read this Owner’s Manual and under-
stand it thoroughly before operating your watercraft.
Always turn the boat on PORT side. Rolling to The watercraft must be in water at least 0.8 m
the STARBOARD side can cause water in the ex- (2.5 ft) deep when starting to prevent jet pump
haust system to run into the engine, with possi- damage by objects sucked up from the bottom.
ble engine damage.
If the watercraft has capsized, follow the righting Do not operate in shallow or debris-laden water,
procedure on page 95 immediately. If water is left or the impeller may be damaged and sand may
in the engine more than a few hours, it will de- clog the water cooling hoses.
stroy the crankshaft bearings and damage other
internal engine parts. Do not run the watercraft onto the shore, or se-
vere impeller damage may occur.
 GENERAL INFORMATION j
Quick Reference Guide
This Quick Reference Guide will assist you in OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS j
finding the information you’re looking for.
STORAGE j

MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS j

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE j

A Table of Contents is included after the

Foreword.
 Whenever you see the symbols shown below,
heed their instructions! Always follow safe operat-
ing and maintenance practices.

WARNING
This warning symbol identifies special in-
structions or procedures which, if not cor-
rectly followed, could result in personal
injury, or loss of life.

CAUTION
This caution symbol identifies special in-
structions or procedures which, if not strictly
observed, could result in damage to or de-
struction of equipment.

NOTE
żIndicates points of particular interest for more effi-
cient and convenient operation.
 FOREWORD
Congratulations on your purchase of a new described in this manual. For those who would like
Kawasaki JET SKI watercraft. Welcome to a new more detailed information on their JET SKI water-
and exciting water sport. We are pleased you have craft, a Service Manual is available for purchase
chosen the Kawasaki JET SKI watercraft to expand from any authorized Kawasaki JET SKI watercraft
the enjoyment of your recreational hours. dealer. The Service Manual contains detailed dis-
Kawasaki uses the latest manufacturing methods assembly and maintenance information. Those who
and materials to bring you a high quality recreational plan to do their own work should, of course, be com-
watercraft. petent mechanics and possess the special tools de-
scribed in the Service Manual.
Please read this Owner’s Manual carefully be-
fore starting your new JET SKI watercraft so that Keep this Owner’s Manual aboard your JET SKI
you will be thoroughly familiar with the proper oper- watercraft at all times so that you can refer to it when-
ation of your watercraft’s controls, its features, ca- ever you need information. If you need further infor-
pabilities, and limitations. Kawasaki strongly rec- mation, please contact your dealer, who will provide
ommends that all operators attend a boating safety all the help you need.
course before riding the watercraft. Contact the local This manual should be considered a permanent
office of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power part of the JET SKI watercraft and should remain
Squadrons, or school district. with the JET SKI watercraft when it is sold.

This craft is an inboard boat less than 4.8 m (16

BOAT SMART FROM THE START
ft) in length, and as such is subject to all federal
TAKE A BOATING SAFETY COURSE AND GET A
rules and regulations especially pertaining to boating
FREE VESSEL SAFETY CHECK ANNUALLY FOR
safety and operation as enforced by the U.S. Coast
YOUR BOAT.
Guard. States and local jurisdictions may have ad-
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
ditional requirements for operation of powerboats in
UNITED STATES COAST GUARD AUXILIARY,
waters under their control. Additionally, other coun-
800-368-5647, WWW. CGAUX. ORG UNITED
ties may have their own standards and regulations.
STATES POWER SQUADRONS, 888-FOR-USPS,
Please check your local boating laws and regula-
WWW. USPS. ORG
tions before riding the watercraft.
To ensure a long, trouble-free life for your JET SKI
watercraft, give it the proper care and maintenance
 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may
be reproduced without our prior written permission.

This publication includes the latest information

available at the time of printing. However, there may
be minor differences between the actual product
and illustrations and text in this manual.
All products are subject to change without prior
notice or obligation.

KAWASAKI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.

Consumer Products & Machinery Company

© 2007 Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. Oct. 2007 (2) (S)

is a trademark of Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. registered in U.S.A., Japan,

Austria, Benelux, Sweden, Denmark, Switzerland, France, Canada, Finland, Norway, Greece, Italy,
U.K., Portugal, Thailand, and Taiwan.

KAWASAKI JET SKI is a trademark of Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. registered in Australia.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
SPECIFICATIONS............................................ 12 Communication Trouble Indicator/“Err”
GENERAL INFORMATION.............................. 15 Character/Warning Light: ........................ 48
Serial Numbers.............................................. 15 Fuel ............................................................... 48
Parts Location ............................................... 16 Fuel Requirements: .................................... 48
Label Location ............................................... 18 Filling the Tank: .......................................... 50
Environmental Hang Tag ............................... 29 Engine Oil...................................................... 52
Registration Numbers.................................... 31 Oil Requirements:....................................... 52
Multifunction Meter ........................................ 32 Oil Level Inspection: ................................... 52
Smart Learning Operation mode (SLO): .... 34 Controls ......................................................... 54
Speedometer:............................................. 36 Tilt Lever:.................................................... 54
Tachometer (Analogue): ............................. 36 Kawasaki Smart SteeringTM (KSSTM) ......... 55
Multifunction Displays:................................ 36 Important Information: ................................ 55
Boost Meter: ............................................... 36 Smart Learning Operation mode (SLO) ..... 55
Fuel Level Gauge Indicator/"FUEL" Stop Button:................................................ 56
Character/Warning Light: ........................ 42 Start Button: ............................................... 56
Engine Oil Pressure Indicator/"OILP" Throttle Lever: ............................................ 57
Character/Warning Light: ........................ 43 Shift Lever: ................................................. 57
Engine Cooling Water Temperature Ignition Switch ............................................... 58
Indicator/"HEAt" character/Warning SLO/FPO Modes: ....................................... 58
Light: ....................................................... 44 How to use the Immobilizer-function keys:. 60
Low Battery Voltage Indicator/"bAt" Spare keys: ................................................ 61
Character/Warning Light: ........................ 45 Declaration of conformity:........................... 61
Engine Oil Temperature indicator/ “OILt” Seat Latches ................................................. 62
Character/Warning Light ......................... 45 Storage Compartment ................................... 63
Engine Oil Overheat Indicator/”OILH” Center & Rear Storage cases ....................... 64
Character/Warning Light: ........................ 46 Tool Kit........................................................... 65
FI Indicator/"FI" Character/Warning Light:.. 46 Bilge Systems................................................ 66
Immobilizer Amplifier Indicator/“Id A” Drain Screws ................................................. 66
Character/ Warning Light: ....................... 47 Reboarding Step ........................................... 67
Immobilizer Key Matching Indicator/“IdEr” OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ........................ 68
Character/Warning Light: ........................ 47 Safe Operation .............................................. 68
 Operation by Children: ............................... 68 Minimum Stopping Distances:.................... 90
Operation by unskilled riders:..................... 68 Turning the JET SKI Watercraft..................... 91
Operator Swimming Ability: ........................ 68 Operating the JET SKI Watercraft in Reverse 94
Maximum Number of Persons:................... 68 Docking the JET SKI Watercraft.................... 94
Safe Riding Rules:...................................... 69 Riding the JET SKI Watercraft....................... 95
Jet Pump Safety: ........................................ 71 Fall Recovery: ............................................ 95
Personal Flotation Device and Safety Righting the Capsized Watercraft:.............. 95
Gear: ....................................................... 72 After Submerging: ...................................... 97
Watercraft Helmet..... Something You End of the Day Checklist ............................... 101
Should Know: .......................................... 73 First, Drain the Exhaust System:................ 101
Fire Extinguisher: ....................................... 73 Second, Clean the Engine Compartment:.. 102
Loading.......................................................... 74 Special Procedures ....................................... 103
Load Capacity Limits: ................................. 74 Clearing Clogged Impeller:......................... 103
Pulling a Water Skier, Tuber, Wakerboarder, Cleaning Fouled Spark Plugs:.................... 104
etc............................................................... 76 Towing the JET SKI Watercraft:.................. 104
Navigation Rules ........................................... 78 Jump Starting: ............................................ 104
Sailboats:.................................................... 78 Engine Overheating:................................... 106
Overtaking and Passing Situation: ............. 79 Transporting .................................................. 107
Meeting Situation:....................................... 79 STORAGE........................................................ 108
Crossing Situation: ..................................... 80 Preparation for Storage ................................. 108
Pre-ride Checklist .......................................... 81 Cooling System: ......................................... 108
Check Outside Craft: .................................. 81 Bilge System: ............................................. 109
Check Inside Craft:..................................... 81 Fuel System and Engine: ........................... 109
Break-In......................................................... 83 Battery: ....................................................... 111
Stopping the Engine ...................................... 83 Engine Mount Bracket Bolts: ...................... 112
Starting the Engine ........................................ 85 Supercharger:............................................. 112
Launching...................................................... 87 Cleaning: .................................................... 112
Launching from a Dock: ............................. 87 Lubrication:................................................. 112
Launching from a Ramp: ............................ 87 Removal from Storage .................................. 113
Deep Water Start:....................................... 88 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS .......... 115
Shallow Water Start:................................... 88 EMISSION CONTROL INFORMATION ........ 115
Stopping the JET SKI Watercraft................... 89 Periodic Maintenance Chart .......................... 117
Normal Stopping:........................................ 89 Supercharger................................................. 119
Stopping Skills:........................................... 90 Control Cable ................................................ 119
Fuel System .................................................. 125 Cooling System Flushing............................... 140
Throttle Adjustments: ................................. 125 Bilge System Flushing ................................... 141
Fuel Vent Check Valve: .............................. 125 Fuses............................................................. 143
Fuel Pump Screen:..................................... 126 TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE......................... 145
Engine Oil System ......................................... 126 OWNER SATISFACTION ................................ 148
Valve Clearance ............................................ 130 REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS ................... 149
Spark Plug..................................................... 130 ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION.................. 150
Battery ........................................................... 132 MAINTENANCE RECORD .............................. 151
Lubrication..................................................... 137
12 SPECIFICATIONS

SPECIFICATIONS
JET SKI WATERCRAFT - MODEL JT1500B
INBOARD BOAT LESS THAN 4.8 M (16 FEET) IN LENGTH
Engine:
Type 4-stroke, 4-cylinder, water-cooled
Displacement 1 498 cm³ 91.4 cu in.
Bore and Stroke 83 × 69.2 mm 3.27 × 2.72 in.
Compression Ratio 7.8 : 1
Ignition System Digital transistor
Lubrication System Semi-drysump
Fuel System Digital fuel injection
Starting System Electric starter
Tuning Specifications:
Spark Plug NGK PMR9B
Gap 0.6 ∼ 0.7 mm 0.024 ∼ 0.028 in
Terminal Solid post

0° ATDC @1 300 r/min (rpm) ∼ 8° BTDC

Ignition Timing
@3 000 r/min (rpm)

Idle Speed 1 300 ±100 r/min (rpm) - in water

1 300 ±100 r/min (rpm) - out of water
 SPECIFICATIONS 13

Drive System:
Coupling Direct drive from engine
Jet Pump: Type Axial flow, single stage
Thrust 6 780 N (692 kg) 1 524lb
Steering Steerable nozzle
Braking Water drag
*Performance:
Minimum Turning Radius 4.0 m 13.1 ft
Fuel Consumption 74.5 L/h @full throttle 19.7 gal (U.S.)/hr
Cruising Range 105 km @full throttle 65.3 mi
59 minutes
Dimensions:
Overall length 3 370 mm 132.7 in
Overall width 1 195 mm 47.0 in
Overall Height 1 150 mm 45.3 in
Dry Weight 4 021 N (410 kg) 904.1 lb
Maximum Draft 370 mm 14.6 in
Fuel Tank Capacity 78 L 20.6 gal (U.S.)
Engine Oil:
Type API SF or SG
API SH, SJ or SL with JASO MA
SAE10W-40
Oil Capacity 5.0 L 5.3 qt (U.S.)
14 SPECIFICATIONS

Electrical Equipment:
Battery 12 V 18 Ah

* The information shown here represents results under controlled conditions, and the information may
not be correct under other conditions.
 GENERAL INFORMATION 15
j
GENERAL INFORMATION

Serial Numbers
The hull and engine identification numbers are used to register the boat. They are the only means of iden-
tifying your particular machine from others of the same model. These serial numbers may be needed by your
dealer when ordering parts. In the event of theft, investigating authorities will require both numbers as well as
the model number and any unique features of your machine that could help identify it. Record these numbers
here.

A. Hull Identification Number (HIN) A. Engine Number

H.I.N. Eng. No.

 16 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
Parts Location

A. Handrail/grip
B. Towing Hook
C. Seat Latch
D. Rear Seat
A. Front Storage Case E. Front Seat
B. Engine Shut-off Lanyard F. Water Inlet Fitting
C. Engine Start and Stop Button G. Bypass Outlet
D. Multifunction Meter H. Engine Compartment
E. Throttle Lever I. Towing Eyes
F. Handlebars J. Waterwheel for speedometer
G. Center Storage Case K. Drain Screws
H. Ignition Switch L. Reboarding Step
I. Shift Lever M. Steering Nozzle
J. Rear View Mirror N. Reverse Bucket
K. Battery O. Exhaust Outlet
 GENERAL INFORMATION 17
j

A. Water Intake A. Air Intake Duct

B. Jet Pump Cover B. Spark Plugs
C. Grate C. Exhaust Pipe
D. Drive Shaft D. Supercharger
E. Injection Nozzles
 18 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
Label Location
All warning labels which are on your watercraft are
repeated here. Read them and understand them
thoroughly. They contain information which is im-
portant for your safety and the safety of anyone else
who may operate your watercraft. Therefore, it is
very important that all warning labels be on your wa-
tercraft in the locations shown. If any label is miss-
ing, damaged, or worn, get a replacement from your
Kawasaki dealer and install it in the correct position.
NOTE
żThe sample warning labels in this section have A. Caution/Warning
part numbers to help you and your dealer obtain B. Caution/Warning
the correct replacement. C. Emission Label
D. Fire Extinguisher
 GENERAL INFORMATION 19
j

E. Warning G. NMMA Label

F. Warning H. Caution
L. Fuel Information I. Caution/Warning
 20 GENERAL INFORMATION
j

J. Exhaust Emission Information K. Battery Danger/Poison

 GENERAL INFORMATION 21
j
(A)
 22 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
(A)
 GENERAL INFORMATION 23
j
(B) (C)

(D)
 24 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
(E) (G)

(F)

(H)
 GENERAL INFORMATION 25
j
(I)

(I)
 26 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
(I)
 GENERAL INFORMATION 27
j
(I)
 28 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
(J) (K)

(L)
 GENERAL INFORMATION 29
j
Environmental Hang Tag
 30 GENERAL INFORMATION
j

One Star – Low-Emission

The one-star label identifies engines that meet
the California Air Resources Board’s 2001 exhaust Three Stars - Ultra Low Emission
emission standards. Engines meeting these stan- The three-star label identifies engines that meet
dards have 75% lower emissions than conventional the Air Resources Board’s 2008 exhaust emission
carbureted two-stroke engines. These engines are standards. Engines meeting these standards have
equivalent to the U.S. EPA’s 2006 standards for 65% lower emissions than One-Star Low Emission
marine engines. engines.

Four Stars - Super Ultra Low Emission

Two Stars – Very Low-Emission The four-star label identifies engines that meet the
The two-star label identifies engines that meet Air Resources Board’s Sterndrive and Inboard ma-
the California Air Resources Board’s 2004 ex- rine engine 2009 exhaust emission standards. Per-
haust emission standards. Engines meeting sonal Watercraft may also comply with these stan-
these standards have 20% lower emissions than dards. Engines meeting these standards have 90
One-Star-Low-Emission engines. % lower emission than One Star-Low Emission en-
gines.
 GENERAL INFORMATION 31
j
Registration Numbers
The graphic design of your JET SKI watercraft pro-
vides a specific location on each side for the regis-
tration numbers and validation decals.

A. Location for Registration Number

B. Location for Validation Decal
The registration numbers must read from left to
right on both sides of the watercraft. Typically, the
validation decal must be placed 3 inches (76.2 mm)
beyond, and level with the first or last letter of the
A. Location for Registration Number identification number.
B. Location for Validation Decal
NOTE
żRequirements for registration numbers and vali-
dation decals may vary from those given here for
your state. Always follow the directions provided
at the time you register you watercraft.
Registration numbers must be block characters no
less than 3 inches (76.2 mm) in height. They should
be a color contrasting with the background. The
spaces between the numerals and the prefix/suffix
 32 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
letters must be equal to the width of any letter ex-
cept "I" or any number except "1." Multifunction Meter
Ahead of the steering handlebars is a multifunc-
tion meter. When the ignition switch is turned on,
the fuel meter is shown then turns off. The analogue
tachometer will make one sweep and then all dis-
plays on the panel are shown together with the warn-
ing light on and the buzzer will sound twice. After
this self-check procedure, the meter display shows
the normal readings.
NOTE
A = 3 inches (76.2 mm) minimum żThe display will go off 3 minutes after stopping
B=C the engine using the engine stop lanyard or stop
D = 3 inches (76.2 mm) button.
żThe MODE button operates when the engine is
running slower than 3 000 rpm.
żWhen the warning light goes on, an intermit-
tent buzzer sound accompanies. This buzzer
sound can be stopped by pushing either "SET" or
"MODE" button.
żTo turn off the flashing warning lights, it is neces-
sary to hold down either SET or MODE button for
more than one second.
żThen the MODE button can be operated normally.
 GENERAL INFORMATION 33
j

1. "MODE" Button
2. "SET" Button
3. Multifunction Display
4. Engine Cooling Water Temperature Indicator
5. Engine Oil Pressure Indicator
6. Immobilizer Indicator
7. FI Indicator
8. Low Battery Voltage Indicator
9. Fuel Level Gauge
10. Speedometer
11. Boost Meter
12. "LED" Warning Light
13. Tachometer (Analogue)
 34 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
Smart Learning Operation mode (SLO):
This watercraft is equipped with the Smart Learn-
ing Operation mode (SLO). This mode reduces the
maximum watercraft speed for a use by unskilled op-
erators.

FPO Mode Display

To shift the SLO mode to FPO, and vice versa,
choose the ignition key for the mode you desire and
insert into the key slot. Refer to the Ignition Switch
section, GENERAL INFORMATION chapter.
SLO Mode Display
Normal operation mode (Full Power Operation
mode, FPO) is shown by FPO display.
 GENERAL INFORMATION 35
j
żUnder the SLO mode, all the meter displays and
other functions work in the same manner as the
normal operation (Full Power Operation, FPO)
mode.

A. FPO mode Ignition key (orange-colored)

B. SLO mode Ignition key (yellow-colored)

NOTE
żWhen shifted to the SLO mode, the initial display,
as shown when the ignition switch is turned on, is
shown together with a buzzer sound.
żThen, “SLO” is shown blinking every three sec-
onds.
żWhen shifted to the normal operation mode (Full
Power Operation mode, FPO), the same initial dis-
play is first shown with buzzer sound and followed
by “FPO” for two seconds. However, “FPO“ is
shown only once when shifted and is not displayed
thereafter.
 36 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
Speedometer: Tachometer (Analogue):
The speedometer shows the speed of the water- The tachometer shows the engine speed in revo-
craft. During a sharp turn the speed shown can be lutions per minute (rpm).
6 to 12 mph (10 to 20 km/h) lower than the actual
speed.

Multifunction Displays:
The Clock, Time, Trip, Hour Meters, Tachometer,
NOTE and the Maximum Speed recorded will be displayed
żYou can change the speedometer display from under the speedometer. These modes will shift in
Mile/h to Km/h and vice-versa, see Hour Meter series if the "MODE" button is pressed for 1 second
section for the details. or more.
Boost Meter:
The boost meter segments show the amount of
boost pressure produced by the supercharger.
If the segments do not go on when the engine
is running, have your authorized JET SKI water-
craft dealer check the supercharger and multifunc-
tion meter.
 GENERAL INFORMATION 37
j
4. Push the "MODE" button to advance the min-
utes.
5. Push the "SET" button. The minutes display
stops flashing and the clock starts working.

Clock

1. Push the "SET" button for two seconds or more.

The hour display starts flashing.
2. Push the "MODE" button to advance the hours.
3. Push the "SET" button. The hour display stops
flashing and the minutes display starts flashing.
 38 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
NOTE Time Meter
żPushing the "MODE" button momentarily ad- The time meter shows the time passed since it was
last reset to zero.
vances the hour or minute step by step. Holding
the button down advances the hour or minute To reset the time meter:
continuously. 1. Push and hold the “SET" button. All the displays
żThe clock works normally from the back-up power in this mode start flashing.
2. After two seconds the displays stop flashing and
while the ignition switch is turned off.
żWhen the battery is disconnected, the clock resets the hour and minute display turns back to 00:00,
and then starts working, if the engine is running.
to 12:00, and starts working again when a battery
is connected. The meter works on until it is next reset, unless
the ignition switch is turned off.
NOTE
żThe time data is maintained by the back-up power
if the ignition switch is turned off, and it starts work-
ing when the craft is next operated.
żWhen the time comes to 99:59 when the engine is
running, it turns back to 00:00 and starts counting
upward again.
żWhen the battery is disconnected, the time display
resets to 00:00.
 GENERAL INFORMATION 39
j
Trip Meter
The trip meter shows the distance traveled since it
was last reset to zero.
To reset the trip meter:
1. Push the “SET" button and hold it in. All the
displays in this mode start flashing.
2. After two seconds the displays stop flashing and
the figure display turns to 000.0, and then starts
counting when the craft is operated. The meter
works on until it is next reset, unless the ignition
switch is turned off.
NOTE
żThe data is maintained by the back-up power if the
ignition switch is turned off.
żWhen the trip meter is reset while the craft is
stopped, it starts counting as soon as the craft
starts moving.
żWhen the figures come to 999.9 when the craft is
running, they turn back to 000.0 and start counting
again.
żWhen the battery is disconnected, the meter dis-
play resets to 000.0.
 40 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
Hour Meter
The hour meter shows the total hours that the wa-
tercraft has been operated. This meter cannot be
reset.
NOTE
żThe data is maintained even if the battery is dis-
connected.
żWhen the figures come to 9999, they turn back to
0000 and start counting upward again while the
craft is operated.

żWith the Hour Meter display, you can change the

speedometer display from mile/h to Km/h and vice
versa by pushing the “SET" button for more than
three seconds.
 GENERAL INFORMATION 41
j
Tachometer (Digital) To reset this records:
The tachometer shows the engine speed in revo- 1. Push the “SET” button and hold it.
lutions per minutes (rpm). All the displays in this mode start flashing.
2. After two seconds the displays stops flashing
and figure displays turn to 0000.

Maximum Speed & Engine rpm

The maximum speed ever recorded since last re-
set and its corresponding engine rpm are shown.
 42 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
Fuel Level Gauge Indicator/"FUEL"
Character/Warning Light:
The fuel in the fuel tank is shown in segments. All
fuel segments are displayed when the fuel tank is
full. As the fuel is consumed, the segments go out
accordingly. The last segment begins flashing when
only 1 bottom segment remains (E mark). The warn-
ing light goes on and the "FUEL" character under
the speedometer flashes with buzzer sound to warn
the operator as well. Buzzer sound will stop when
any button is held down for more than one second.
When they begin flashing, 32 liters (8.5 U.S. gal) of
fuel remain. Reduce speed to less than half-throttle
and fill the fuel tank as soon as possible because
there is no reserve tank in this watercraft (See the
Fuel and Controls sections).
 GENERAL INFORMATION 43
j
Engine Oil Pressure Indicator/"OILP"
Character/Warning Light:
The engine oil pressure indicator flashes with
buzzer sound to warn the operator whenever the oil
pressure is dangerously low. Also the warning light
goes on and "OILP" character under the speedome-
ter flashes. The engine revolution is automatically
controlled to 3 000 rpm. Return to shore immedi-
ately and fill the oil as soon as possible (Refer to
"ENGINE OIL"). Hold down any button for more
than one second to stop the buzzer sound.
NOTE
żIt is normal that the oil warning light will remain on
after the watercraft is capsized and up-righted if
the ignition key is on.
 44 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
Engine Cooling Water Temperature
Indicator/"HEAt" character/Warning Light:
If the engine cooling water temperature gets too
high, the warning light goes on and the engine cool-
ing water temperature indicator flashes with buzzer
sound to warn the operator. Also "HEAt" character
under the speedometer flashes. The engine revolu-
tion is automatically controlled to 3 000 rpm. Return
to shore immediately and check the cooling system
for clogging (see the Special Procedures section in
the Operating Instructions chapter). Buzzer sound
will stop when any button is held down for more than
one second.
CAUTION
If the engine overheats, the "LED" warning
light goes on and water temperature indica-
tor, "HEAt" character flash and the engine
slows down. Return to shore immediately.
To prevent engine damage, do not operate
the craft until the cause of overheating is cor-
rected.
 GENERAL INFORMATION 45
j
Low Battery Voltage Indicator/"bAt" Engine Oil Temperature indicator/ “OILt”
Character/Warning Light: Character/Warning Light
The red "LED" warning light goes on and low bat- If the engine oil temperature sensor should fail to
tery voltage indicator and "bAt" character flash when function properly, the red “LED” warning light goes
the battery voltage is less than 11.5 volts. If they on and the engine oil pressure indicator and the
flash, return to the shore immediately. The buzzer “OILt” character begin flashing. The buzzer sound
sound also goes off. also goes off. Under this condition, the engine revo-
Remove your watercraft’s battery and charge it. lution is automatically controlled to 3 000 rpm.
Buzzer sound will stop when any button is held down Return to the shore immediately and have your au-
for more than one second. thorized Kawasaki JET SKI watercraft dealer check
your boat to determine the suspected problem. Hold
down any button for more than one second to stop
the buzzer sound.
 46 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
Engine Oil Overheat Indicator/”OILH” FI Indicator/"FI" Character/Warning Light:
Character/Warning Light: If the fuel-injection-related parts should fail to func-
If the engine oil temperature gets too high, the tion properly, the red "LED" warning light goes on
warning light goes on and the engine oil pressure and the FI indicator and the "FI" character begin
indicator flashes with buzzer sound to warn the op- flashing. The buzzer sound goes off.
erator. Also “OILH” character starts flashing. Return to the shore immediately and have your au-
Under this condition, the engine revolution is thorized Kawasaki JET SKI watercraft dealer check
automatically controlled to 3 000 rpm. Return to your boat to determine the suspected problem. Hold
shore Immediately and check the cooling system for down any button for more than one second to stop
clogging and engine oil level. If the cause is other the buzzer sound.
than the above two, have your authorized Kawasaki Depending on the nature of the trouble, the engine
JET SKI watercraft dealer check your boat to deter- revolution is automatically controlled to 3 000 rpm.
mine the suspected problem. (See the TROUBLE
SHOOTING for the causes listed Engine RPM does
not increase more than 3 000).
Hold down any button for more than one second
to stop the buzzer sound.
 GENERAL INFORMATION 47
j
Immobilizer Amplifier Indicator/“Id A” Character/ Immobilizer Key Matching Indicator/“IdEr”
Warning Light: Character/Warning Light:
If the amplifier for the immobilizer system should If a key other than registered is tried, the red “LED”
fail to function properly, the red “LED” warning light, warning light, the immobilizer indicator and the “IdEr”
the immobilizer indicator and the ”Id A” character character begin flashing. The buzzer sound goes
begin flashing. The buzzer sound goes off. Have off.
your authorized Kawasaki JET SKI watercraft dealer
check your boat.
Hold down any button for more than one second
to stop the buzzer sound.
 48 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
Communication Trouble Indicator/“Err”
Character/Warning Light: Fuel
If there should be a trouble in communication
between the multifunction meter and the Electronic
Control Unit (ECU), the red “LED” warning light
CAUTION
goes on and the FI indicator and the “Err” character Do not use racing fuels or fuel additives. This
begin flashing. The buzzer sound also goes off. watercraft has not been tested and certified
Have your authorized Kawasaki JET SKI watercraft for use with such fuels. Damage to the en-
dealer check your boat. gine and fuel system may result from the use
Hold down any button for more than one second of improper fuel.
to stop the buzzer sound.
Fuel Requirements:
Fuel Type
Use clean, fresh unleaded gasoline with a mini-
mum Antiknock Index of 90. The Antiknock Index is
posted on service station pumps in the U.S.A. The
octane rating of a gasoline is a measure of its re-
sistance to detonation or “knocking”. The Antiknock
Index is an average of the Research Octane Num-
ber (RON) and the Motor Octane Number (MON) as
shown in the table below.
Minimum
Octane Rating Method
Rating
Antiknock (RON + MON)
90
Index 2

CAUTION
Use minimum of 90 octane gasoline only to
prevent severe engine damage.
 GENERAL INFORMATION 49
j
CAUTION CAUTION
If engine “knocking" or “pinging" occurs, Avoid using blends of unleaded gasoline and
use a different brand of gasoline of a higher methanol (wood alcohol) whenever possible,
octane rating. If this condition is allowed to and never use “gasohol" containing more
continue it can lead to severe engine dam- than 5% methanol. Fuel system damage and
age. performance problems may result.
Gasoline quality is important. Fuels of low
quality or not meeting standard industry Gasoline/Ether Blends - The most common ether
specifications may result in unsatisfactory is methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE). You may use
performance. Operating problems that result gasoline containing up to 15% MTBE.
from the use of poor quality or nonrecom-
NOTE
mended fuel may not be covered under your
warranty. żOther oxygenates approved for use in unleaded
gasoline include TAME (up to 16.7%) and ETBE
Fuels Containing Oxygenates (up to 17.2%). Fuel containing these oxygenates
Gasoline frequently contains oxygenates (alco- can also be used in your Kawasaki.
hols and ethers) especially in areas of the U.S. and
Canada which are required to sell such reformu-
lated fuels as part of a strategy to reduce exhaust
emissions.
The types and volume of fuel oxygenates ap-
proved for use in unleaded gasoline by the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency include a broad
range of alcohols and ethers, but only two compo-
nents have seen any significant level of commercial
use.
Gasoline/Alcohol Blends - Gasoline containing up
to 10% ethanol (alcohol produced from agricultural
products such as corn), also known as “gasohol" is
approved for use.
 50 GENERAL INFORMATION
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CAUTION Filling the Tank:
Never use gasoline with an octane rat-
ing lower than the minimum specified by WARNING
Kawasaki. Gasoline is extremely flammable and can
Never use "gasohol" with more than 10 be explosive under certain conditions. Pull
% ethanol, or more than 5% methanol. the lanyard key off the stop button. Do not
Gasoline containing methanol must also smoke. Make sure the area is well ventilated
be blended with cosolvents and corrosion and free from any source of flame or sparks;
inhibitors. this includes any appliance with a pilot light.
Certain ingredients of gasoline may cause
paint fading or damage. Be extra careful Avoid filling the tank in the rain or where heavy dust
not to spill gasoline or gasoline oxygenate is blowing so that the fuel does not get contaminated.
blends during refueling. The fuel tank is located at the front end of the en-
When not operating your Kawasaki for 30 gine compartment and the fuel filler cap is under the
to 60 days, mix a fuel stabilizer (such as front storage lid. Open the lid and turn the cap coun-
STA-BIL) with the gasoline in the fuel tank. terclockwise and remove it.
Fuel stabilizer additives inhibit oxidation of
the fuel which minimizes gummy deposits.
Never store this product with "gasohol" in
the fuel system. Before storage it is recom-
mended that you drain all fuel from the fuel
tank and fuel system. See the Storage sec-
tion in this manual.

A. Fuel Filler Cap

 GENERAL INFORMATION 51
j
Remove the seats and observe the fuel level in the
fuel tank to avoid overfilling when filling.
Also observe the fuel level gauge on the meter for
the segments to increase while filling.
Fill the tank with the recommended octane rating
gasoline. The use of a small diameter pour spout (or
funnel) will make filling easier. Pour slowly to avoid
"spit back" and allow air to escape from the tank.

WARNING
Never fill the tank completely to the top. As
the fuel expands in a warm tank, it may over-
flow from the vent tube. After refueling, make
sure the filler cap is closed securely.
A. Fuel Tank
B. Filler Neck
C. Fuel Pump
D. Maximum Fuel Level
After transporting or refueling and before starting
the engine, open the front storage compartment lid
and remove the seats (see the Seat Latch section)
for several minutes to ventilate the engine compart-
ment.
WARNING
A concentration of gasoline fumes in the en-
gine compartment can cause a fire or explo-
sion.
 52 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
Engine Oil
In order for the engine to function properly, main-
tain the engine oil at the proper level, and change
the oil and replace the oil filter in accordance with
the Periodic Maintenance Chart. Not only do dirt and
metal particles collect in the oil, but the oil itself loses
its lubricative quality if used too long.
Oil Requirements:
Type: API , SF or SG
API SH, SJ or SL with JASO MA
SAE10W-40
Capacity: 4.0 L (4.2 US qt) Oil Level Inspection:
5.0 L (5.3 US qt)
when engine is completely dry. • Check the engine oil level each day before operat-
ing your watercraft and add oil if necessary. Refer
to the Pre-Ride Check List in Operating Instruction
chapter.
Although 10W-40 engine oil is the recommended
oil for most conditions, the oil viscosity may need • Whenever you check the oil level, keep your wa-
tercraft level side to side and fore to aft as much
to be changed to accommodate atmospheric condi- as possible.
tions in your riding area.
• Remove the dipstick, wipe it dry and insert it back
to the dipstick tube, and then remove it again to
check the oil level.
 GENERAL INFORMATION 53
j

A. Dipstick A. Dipstick
B. Dipstick Tube B. "H" (High) Line when cold
C. "H" (High) Line when hot
• The oil level must be between the "H" (High) and
"L" (Low) lines on the stick. Use the cold level
D. "L" (Low) Line when cold
E. "L" (Low) Line when hot
mark.
NOTE • IfLine
the oil level is too low, add oil to reach the Low
level. Use the same type and brand of oil that
żBe careful when reading the dipstick as different is already in the engine.
level marks on the dipskick should be used de-
pending if the oil is warm or cold. See the next
• See Maintenance and Adjustment chapter for
adding oil procedure.
illustration.
CAUTION
Be careful not to allow any dirt or foreign ma-
terials to enter the engine.
 54 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
Tilt Lever:
Controls The handlebar tilt can be changed to your choice.
Push down the tilt lever and move the handlebars
Steering Handlebars: up or down, you can select the best position in five
different angles.

A. Handlebars
The steering handlebars function much the same A. Steering Handlebars
as snowmobile or bicycle handlebars. Turning the B. Tilt Lever
handlebars will cause the watercraft to turn ONLY
WHEN THE ENGINE IS RUNNING AND ONLY WARNING
WHEN THE THROTTLE IS APPLIED. The han- Never touch the tilt lever during operation, or
dlebars are connected by a control cable to the jet the handlebars may suddenly change posi-
pump steering nozzle at the rear of the boat. tion, which may cause an accident.
 GENERAL INFORMATION 55
j
Kawasaki Smart SteeringTM (KSSTM) Important Information:
Your JET SKI watercraft provides turning action When you make an emergency maneuver: YOU
under certain conditions when the throttle is re- MUST HAVE THRUST TO TURN, so keep the throt-
leased. There must be thrust at the jet nozzle to tle on or apply throttle as needed to maintain thrust
initiate and complete turns. This is a supplemental at the jet nozzle.
steering system which assists operators in learning You can turn quicker by applying the throttle as
to negotiate turns and maneuver. needed and not relying upon the steering system.
Your JET SKI watercraft continuously detects the The system functions when all of these conditions
operator’s steering input as well as boat speed. are present:
When the throttle is released while boat speed is – engine speed averages more than 3 000 RPM for
high and a turn is initiated, the JET SKI watercraft a specified time
automatically increases engine speed to provide – the throttle is released completely
additional thrust. The system does not work when – and the handlebars are held fully to the left or right.
the engine is off or boat speed is low.
Smart Learning Operation mode (SLO)
This watercraft is equipped with the Smart Learn-
ing Operation mode (SLO), which reduces the maxi-
mum watercraft speed by approximately 30 percent.
SLO mode is displayed on the meter as SLO,
whereas the non-restricted ordinary mode (Full
Power Operation mode, FPO) is displayed as FPO.
Under the SLO mode, all the functions of the mul-
tifunction meter and KSS function remain the same
as the ordinary mode, FPO.
To switch from FPO mode to SLO and vice versa,
stop the engine and replace the ignition key from
FPO to SLO and vice versa. See the Ignition Switch
section and Multifunction Meter section in this chap-
ter.
We suggest that the owner/operator become famil-
iar with the SLO mode so that they can assist others
in understanding how it works.
 56 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
Stop Button: starts. Without the lanyard key the engine neither
The stop button is in the case on the left hand side cranks nor starts.
of the handlebar. The stop button is red and marked
“STOP." Pushing the stop button turns off the engine.
CAUTION
The engine is also stopped by pulling the engine Do not push the "START" button while the
shut-off lanyard key off the stop button. engine is running or while the starter is still
After riding, remove the engine shut-off lanyard spinning, as it will hasten starter wear and
key from watercraft to avoid unauthorized use by may cause the starter to jam.
children or others.

A. Stop Button A. Start Button

B. Lanyard Key B. Lanyard Key

Start Button: NOTE

The start button is in the case on the left hand side żFor the engine to start, the ignition switch must be
of the handlebar. The start button is green and is inserted and the engine shut-off lanyard key must
marked “START." Pushing the start button with the be pushed under the stop button.
engine shut-off lanyard key pushed under the stop żRefer to the Starting the Engine section in the Op-
button starts the engine. Release it when the engine erating Instructions chapter.
 GENERAL INFORMATION 57
j
Throttle Lever:
The throttle lever is located on the right hand side
of the handlebars. Squeezing the lever towards the
handlebar grip increases engine speed. When re-
leased, spring pressure returns the lever to the idle
position. Always check that the throttle lever re-
turns normally before starting the engine. In ad-
dition, there must be adequate throttle cable play.
Refer to the MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS
chapter for the throttle cable adjustment procedure.

A. Shift Lever
B. Trigger
C. "F" (Forward) position
D. "R" (Reverse) position
To shift into Reverse from Forward, squeeze the
trigger on the lever while pulling the lever all the way
up.
To shift into Forward, squeeze the trigger while
pushing the lever all the way down.
Be sure to allow the watercraft to slow down before
shifting from Forward to Reverse.
A. Throttle Lever

Shift Lever:
The shift lever is located on the left side under
the steering handlebars and has two positions: “F"
(Forward) and “R" (Reverse).
 58 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
WARNING
Do not shift into reverse while running for-
Ignition Switch
ward at high speed and do not use reverse as
The ignition switch is located in the center storage
a brake, or the watercraft bow may suddenly
case.
dive into the water, which can cause injury
This watercraft is equipped with two kinds of ig-
to the occupants by throwing them forward.
nition keys, one of which can control the watercraft
The operator should slow the watercraft to a
speed for the unskilled and the other for normal op-
stop and alert the passengers before shifting
eration.
to Reverse.
Also those keys are equipped with immobilizer
Refer to the Operating the JET SKI Watercraft system to protect your watercraft from theft.
in Reverse section in the OPERATING INSTRUC- SLO/FPO Modes:
TIONS chapter.
Depending on his/her skill, rider can choose ei-
ther Smart Learning Operation Mode (SLO), which
reduces the maximum watercraft speed or in ordi-
nary Full Power Operation Mode (FPO).

Keys are color-coded.

FPO in orange color
SLO in yellow color & marked SLO
 GENERAL INFORMATION 59
j

A. FPO Key (Full Power Operation Mode: And when SLO key is inserted:
orange-colored)
B. SLO Key (Smart Learning Operation Mode:
yellow-colored and marked SLO)
When FPO key is inserted, the multifunction meter
will show the following display.

Refer to the control section of this chapter for SLO

information.
 60 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
How to use the Immobilizer-function keys: NOTE
Insert either SLO or FPO key into the key slot in żWhen shifting the mode from SLO to FPO and vice
the center storage case and press the key further in. versa, be sure to stop the engine. If the engine is
Then the communication is performed between the on, the mode cannot be shifted.
ECU (electronic control unit) and the immobilizer key
and the code of the immobilizer key is checked. • Be sure to keep the key inserted in the slot while
riding the watercraft. This is important because if
If in agreement with the code into which the im-
you lose the keys at sea you will be unable to start
mobilizer key code is registered, a red “LED” light
the engine again and may end up being stranded.
flashes with buzzer sound and the initial display will
be shown on the multifunction meter.
Observe the following precautions to protect your
This is the state in which engine starting is possi-
immobilizer keys.
ble.
CAUTION
Do not expose the keys to excessively high
temperature.
Do not place the keys close to magnets.
Do not place heavy item on the keys.
Do not damage the plastic covers.
Do not give shocks to the keys.

• Ifwarning
unregistered key is tried, an alarm buzzer and
light go off at the multifunction meter.
Alarms are also given if immobilizer system
causes any trouble, see Multifunction Meter sec-
tion in this chapter.
A. Center Storage Case NOTE
B. Key Slot
C. Immobilizer Key
żSince the immobilizer system uses the electric
wave for communication, key identification error
may occur where other electric waves abound.
 GENERAL INFORMATION 61
j
• Whenever the watercraft is not in use, be sure
to remove the key from the key slot to prevent
(1) This device may not causes harmful interfer-
ence.
unauthorized use. (2) This device must accept any interference re-
ceived, including interference that may cause
Spare keys:
undesired operation.
•If you lose the key, contact a Kawasaki dealer for
making new one. Take the watercraft to the dealer
to have the key registered to the ECU. You need at
least one registered key to have a new key regis-
tered to ECU, and if you have lost both registered
keys, you have to renew the ECU. For this reason,
we suggest that you keep the registered keys sep-
arately.
NOTE
żThere is a limit to the number of keys you can
make at one time, contact your authorized dealer
for more information.

Declaration of conformity:
FCC Warning
Changes or modifications not expressly ap-
proved by the party responsible for compliance
could void the user’s authority to operate the
equipment.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC

Rules and RSS-Gen of IC Rules. Operation is
subject to the following two conditions:
 62 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
Seat Latches
There are two individual seats which can be un-
locked using the latch under the rear of each seat.
Remove the rear seat first.
The procedure to open and close is the same for
both seats.
To Open: Pull the latch handle and remove the
seat up and to the rear.
To Close: Engage the front of the seat in place
and slide it all the way forward by pushing the rear
of the seat and then push down on the rear of the
seat to lock it.
A. Front Seat
B. Latch Handle

When transporting the watercraft, make sure the

seats are secured to prevent them from becoming
dislodged and damaged or lost.
The handrail behind the seat is for boarding from
deep water. Also, when towing a water skier, the
handrail should be held by the observer who faces
rearward to watch the water skier. It is not designed
for any other purposes.
See page 77 for instructions on where to attach
tow ropes.

A. Rear Seat CAUTION

B. Latch Handle
C. Handrail Do not use handrail and hook for towing an-
other watercraft, lifting craft, or attaching tie
-downs.
 GENERAL INFORMATION 63
j
Storage Compartment
The box type storage case is located in the bow.
Store this Owner’s Manual, put in a plastic bag, in
the storage case.
To open the lid, pull the knob and raise the lid all
the way up.
To close the lid, push on it near the knob until it
latches.

A. Front Storage Case

B. Fire Extinguisher
Remove the storage case, and you will find an-
other space in the bow where the battery and the
fuse are located. At the bottom of the compartment,
there is a drain plug. Remove this plug when drain-
ing water in the compartment.

A. Front Storage Lid

B. Knob
You will find a container for a fire extinguisher at-
tached in the storage case. (The fire extinguisher is
not standard equipment with this watercraft.)
 64 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
Center & Rear Storage cases
There is a center storage case in front of the seat.
The ignition switch is inside this case.
To open the lid, pull the knob.
To close the lid, push the knob until it latches.

A. Battery Recess Cover

B. ECU (Fuse) Cover
C. Drain Plug

CAUTION
Make sure that you put the storage case in
position when riding. Running the watercraft
without the case will cause the water to enter A. Center Storage Case
the storage compartment. B. Knob
The box type rear storage case is located under
NOTE the rear seat. Only keep light items in these storage
żMake sure that the storage compartment lid is
cases.
properly secured before riding the watercraft.
 GENERAL INFORMATION 65
j
Tool Kit
The tool kit container is stored at the back of the
rear seat. Unhook the rubber straps to take out the
tool kit.

A. Rear Storage Case

A. Tool Kit
B. Rubber Straps
 66 GENERAL INFORMATION
j
Bilge Systems Drain Screws
This watercraft is equipped with a jet vacuum There are two drain screws in the stern to drain wa-
drainage system at the rear end of the engine ter accumulated in the engine compartment. Open
compartment. This system utilizes the water jet for them only when the craft is out of the water.
propulsion to drain the bilge in the engine compart-
ment. This system functions when the engine is CAUTION
running on the water. Before launching be sure to securely tighten
the screws to avoid flooding and swamping
CAUTION the craft.
Check the function of the bilge system at reg-
ular interval according to the Periodic Main-
tenance Chart. Refer to the MAINTENANCE
AND ADJUSTMENTS chapter. Clear debris
from the pump inlets.

WARNING
The capacity of the bilge pumping system is
not designed to drain the craft in the case of
damage.

NOTE
żTo drain any water remaining in the bilge, remove
the drain screws at the rear end when the craft is A. Drain Screws
out of the water.
 GENERAL INFORMATION 67
j
Reboarding Step
The watercraft is equipped with a folding type re-
boarding step at the stern. When going back aboard
from the rear of the craft, pull the step down. It is
raised back to the original position by spring tension
when released. You can reboard more easily from
the water by using this step and the hand rail behind
the rear end of the seat (see the Safe Operation and
Launching sections in the OPERATING INSTRUC-
TIONS chapter).
Also, this step is designed only for reboarding from
the deep water, so it should not be used for pulling
other crafts. A. Reboarding Step
B. Hand Rail
WARNING
To avoid injury do not drag anyone through
the water while they are holding onto the re-
boarding step.
 68 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
j
Safe Operation See the Multifunction Meter and Controls in the
GENERAL INFORMATION chapter.
Operation by Children: Operator Swimming Ability:

WARNING WARNING
The JET SKI watercraft is not a toy; it is a Riders of personal watercraft can fall into the
one to three person high performance IN- water and experience exposure. Operator
BOARD BOAT LESS THAN 4.8 M (16 FEET) and passengers must be competent swim-
IN LENGTH with a capacity load limit of 225 mers and never travel farther from shore than
kg (496 lb). Underage operators may be haz- they can swim.
ardous to themselves and others. Kawasaki Drowning Hazard: a personal flotation de-
recommends a minimum operator age of 16 vice (PFD) must be worn by the operator and
years old. Know the operator age and train- passengers. Kawasaki recommends that the
ing requirements for your state. A boating operator and passengers wear a vest-type
safety course is recommended and may be PFD (type 1, 2 or 3) at all times.
required in your state.
Maximum Number of Persons:
Operation by unskilled riders: This watercraft is designed to carry the operator
•This watercraft is equipped with the Smart Learn-
ing Operation mode (SLO), which reduces the
and up to 2 passengers. Never exceed the maxi-
mum load limit or allow more than 3 persons (or 2
maximum watercraft speed by approximately 30 persons if water-skier is being towed) to ride the wa-
percent. tercraft at one time.
Unskilled operators should practice operation of
the craft using the SLO mode until they become
more familiar with its operation.
 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 69

WARNING • Kawasaki recommends that the operator and pas-

sengers wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved vest
Do not exceed the maximum recommended
-type personal flotation device (type 1, 2 or 3) at all
number of persons. Regardless of the num-
times. Other countries may have their own stan-
j
ber of persons on board, the total weight of
dards and regulations; be sure to follow them.
persons and cargo must never exceed the
load capacity limit. •Check the throttle control, steering, and shifting for
proper operation before starting the engine. Mal-
Overloading this watercraft can adversely af-
functioning controls can cause an accident.
fect handling and stability which can lead to
an accident. Always use the seats. •Operate defensively at safe speeds and keep
a safe distance away from people, objects, and
other watercraft.
Load capacity limits: 3 persons or 225 Kg (496 żDo not follow directly behind watercraft or other
lb) including cargo. boats.
Cargo carried in open storage area must not żDo not go near others to spray or splash them with
exceed 23 Kg (50 lb) water.
•Look carefully around you for other boats and ob-
jects in your path before starting and making quick
Safe Riding Rules: maneuvers, especially before executing any quick
turns. Because the watercraft is very maneuver-
WARNING able, other boaters may not be expecting you to
Always follow these rules when operating turn as quickly as you are able (see the Turning
your watercraft, for your own safety and that the JET SKI Watercraft section). Before making a
of others. turn, always look over your shoulder to make sure
no other watercraft is coming from behind. Do not
• Always comply with any Navigation Rules in ef-
fect in your area. The Coast Guard office or state
rely solely on the rear view mirror; you may mis-
judge a watercraft’s direction, distance or speed,
boating authority nearest you can usually furnish or you may not see it at all.
you with the applicable rules. Check local and
state regulations before operating. Kawasaki rec-
•Take early action to avoid collisions. Remember,
watercraft and other boats do not have brakes.
ommends that all operators complete an approved
boating safety course.
•Passengers should hold on to the person in front
of them or a hand strap while keeping both feet
• See the Navigation Rules section in this chapter
for basic navigation rules.
on the deck for balance during operation or they
 70 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
can lose balance and be injured. Never allow the
passenger to ride in front of the operator.
• All operators of this watercraft must know the right-
ing procedure because this craft will not self-right
j • The operator must always keep the engine shut
-off lanyard attached to himself while operating the
if it is capsized (see Righting the Capsized Water-
craft in the Riding the JET SKI Watercraft section).
watercraft. If the operator falls, the lanyard stops
the engine (see the Starting the Engine section).
• Never operate the watercraft after dark. It was
not designed for such use, and has no lighting
• Alcohol and drugs impair judgement and reaction equipment.
time. Never drink and ride. • Avoid operating the watercraft in waters full of
• Wear suitable eye protection while operating this
watercraft. In some circumstances water spray
weeds or debris, as they may clog the jet pump,
and cause an injury if you fall.
can momentarily interfere with vision and create
a hazard.
• Do not operate in shallow water, or the impeller
may be damaged and sand may clog the water
• Operator and passengers should wear foot protec- cooling hoses.
tion at all times. Objects hidden underwater may
injure your feet.
• Be very careful of other boats, especially those
towing water skiers. Give them plenty of room.
• Kawasaki recommends that the operator and pas-
sengers of personal watercraft wear protective
• Never go over a ski jump. You could damage the
watercraft or injure yourself.
swimwear such as wet-suit bottoms. Riders of
personal watercraft may suffer injury due to the
• Do not operate the watercraft in ocean surf. In
addition to being dangerous, it may be illegal in
forceful injection of water into body cavities either certain localities.
by falling into the water or while mounting the
craft.
• Slow down before crossing waves. Do not ride if
you have a back condition. High speed operation
• The operator should slow the watercraft to a stop in choppy or rough water may cause back injuries.
and alert the passengers before shifting to reverse
to prevent the bow from suddenly diving into the
• The operator should always stop the engine and
pull the engine shut-off lanyard key before a
water, which can throw the passengers forward passenger uses the reboarding step. A reboard-
and injure them. ing passenger could be injured if their leg slips
• You need throttle to turn. Releasing the throttle
completely reduces the ability to steer and the wa-
through the reboarding step and they are dragged
through the water. The passenger should not use
tercraft can hit an object you are trying to avoid. the reboarding step while the engine is running.
• Use caution when towing another watercraft. Tow-
ing affects steering control and can create a haz-
• The operator must judge what is a safe speed
taking into consideration visibility, traffic, weather
ardous condition. conditions, waves, etc. Water conditions such
 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 71

as converging waves can have considerable influ- Jet Pump Safety:

ence on the ride characteristics of a personal wa- Although the jet pump is inherently safer than a
tercraft and can cause the operator and passen- propeller drive, certain safety precautions must al-
gers to fall off. Additionally, attempting to achieve
j
ways be observed.
maximum speed in adverse conditions can cause
abrupt movement of the boat causing possible in- WARNING
jury to the riders.
Keep your hands, feet, and clothing away
CAUTION from the jet pump intake (bottom of the boat,
in the middle) and never stick anything into
Jumping waves can overstress the water- the pump outlet (steering nozzle at the back
craft hull causing it to crack. of the boat) whenever the engine is running,
or a severe injury can occur.
 72 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING
Drowning Hazard: a personal flotation de-
j vice (PFD) must be worn by the operator and
passengers. Kawasaki recommends that the
operator and passengers wear a vest-type
PFD (type 1, 2 or 3) at all times.

A. Steering Nozzle

Personal Flotation Device and Safety Gear:

U.S. federal regulations require that one U.S.
Coast Guard approved personal flotation device
(PFD) be carried for each person aboard when
operating on water under Coast Guard jurisdiction.
In some state waters not under federal jurisdiction,
other flotation devices are permissible in addition to
those specified by federal law. Other countries may
have their own standards and regulations; be sure
to follow them. As a rule, waist-type ski belts do not
qualify as adequate flotation devices. The full vest
type is recommended. Check local regulations to
see what type of personal flotation device may be
required in your area.
 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 73

WARNING You must decide.

If you plan to ride under conditions in which you
In some circumstances water spray can mo-
believe there is a higher chance that your head may
mentarily interfere with vision which could
be hit by a hard object, such as falling during a race,
j
be hazardous. Wear suitable eye protection
you may choose to wear a helmet and accept the
while operating this watercraft.
risks. On the other hand, if head impact with the
Objects hidden underwater may injure your
water is more likely, you may choose to not wear a
feet. Operator and passengers should wear
helmet.
foot protection at all times.
Riders of personal watercraft may suffer in- Fire Extinguisher:
jury due to the forceful injection of water into A charged and functional fire extinguisher must be
body cavities either by falling into the wa- carried on board, and may be stored in the storage
ter or while mounting the craft. Kawasaki compartment (see the Storage Compartment sec-
recommends that the operator and passen- tion in the GENERAL INFORMATION chapter). Be
gers of personal watercraft wear protective sure to install the fire extinguisher securely.
swimwear such as wetsuit bottoms. Because the watercraft is an inboard boat less
than 4.8 m (16 ft) in length, federal regulations re-
Watercraft Helmet..... Something You Should quire that a fire extinguisher rated “B-1" (minimum
Know: 1 kg or 2 pound capacity) be aboard when operat-
A helmet could protect your head, but could con- ing on navigable waters under Coast Guard Juris-
tribute to neck injuries. diction. In addition, most states, parks, and wildlife
Before wearing a helmet on a personal watercraft departments require that a U.S.C.G. approved fire
you must weigh the benefits and risks. extinguisher be carried aboard, even on waters not
Benefits: Helmets offer some head protection under federal jurisdiction.
from impacts with hard objects. Other countries may have their own standards and
Risks: Helmets could reduce peripheral vision regulations; be sure to follow them.
and increase fatigue; both of which could lead to a
collision. Helmets could also increase loads on the WARNING
neck and throat when you fall into the water, which Do not use your watercraft unless it has a fire
could result in severe injuries. extinguisher on board.

Standard equipment does not include a fire extin-

guisher. Many owners prefer to provide their own
 74 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
fire extinguishers. If you wish, your dealer can fur-
nish you with an approved Kawasaki accessory fire Loading
extinguisher (P/N. W99997–101A).
j
WARNING
Incorrect loading or use of accessories, or
modification of your watercraft may affect
stability and handling of the watercraft and
result in an unsafe riding condition.
Before you ride the watercraft, make sure
that the watercraft is not overloaded and that
you have followed these instructions.

Load Capacity Limits:

3 persons or 225 kg (496 lb) including cargo.
Cargo carried in open storage area must not
exceed 23 kg (50 lb).

With the exception of genuine Kawasaki Parts and

Accessories, Kawasaki has no control over the de-
sign or application of accessories. In some cases,
improper installation or use of accessories, or water-
craft modification, will void the warranty. In selecting
and using accessories, and in loading the watercraft,
you are personally responsible for your own safety
and the safety of other persons involved.
NOTE
żKawasaki Parts and Accessories have been spe-
cially designed for use on Kawasaki watercraft.
 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 75

We strongly recommend that all parts and ac- at the stern are also available. Do not overload
cessories you add to your watercraft be genuine the storage area, maximum cargo weight must not
Kawasaki components. exceed 23 kg (50 lb).
j
Because a personal watercraft is sensitive to • Make sure that the cargo will not move around
while you are riding. Recheck cargo security as
changes in weight distribution, you must take ex-
often as possible and adjust as necessary.
treme care in carrying cargo, passengers and/or in
the fitting of additional accessories. The following • Do not carry large or bulky items affecting visibility
or operator ability to control the watercraft. Do not
general guidelines have been prepared to assist
install accessories or carry cargo that impairs the
you in making your determinations.
performance of the watercraft.
• Passengers can affect control of the watercraft by
improper positioning or sudden movements. It is
important that passengers sit still while the water-
WARNING
craft is in motion and not interfere with the oper- Cargo in the open storage area could inter-
ation of the watercraft. Do not carry animals on fere with reboarding by causing a loss of bal-
your watercraft. ance and possible injury.
• You should instruct any passenger before riding to
hold on to the person in front of them, hand strap,
Do not stack cargo in such a way that it inter-
feres with reboarding.
or handrail; and keep both feet on the deck for
balance.
• Use the open storage area aft of the seat for car-
rying cargo. Be sure that any loose items are
packed in a buoyant container to prevent them
from falling overboard and becoming lost. Loose
articles or rope could fall overboard and become
lodged in the intake grate or pump.
• Use the cargo net (not standard equipment with
this watercraft) or other suitable tie-down straps to
secure cargo on the open storage area. The hook
under the rear end of the seat and the towing eyes
 76 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

Pulling a Water Skier, Tuber,

j Wakerboarder, etc.
Water skiing should be considered a three person
team sport. Do not consider the rear view mirrors as
an observer. As a team, the boat operator, the back-
ward-facing observer, and the skier must know their
equipment, boating laws, each person’s responsibil-
ities, communication signals, and the fundamentals
of the sport. The navigation rules do not provide any
special privileges for vessels towing skiers.
Minimize the danger of collisions with other boats,
fixed objects, or swimmers by staying out of con-
A. Hook gested areas. Keep the skier at least twice the
B. Open Storage Area length of the tow rope away from shore and shallow
C. Hand Rail water. Do not pull the tow rope in front of another
D. Towing Eyes boat. Many lakes have designated ski areas. Al-
ways follow local regulations regarding the towing
of water skiers.
To the Operator:
As the skipper you are responsible for the conduct
and safety of your team. Be extra observant when
pulling a water skier, tuber, wakerboarder, etc; other
boats may not be expecting a personal watercraft
to be pulling someone behind it. Always display a
ski flag to indicate a downed skier or a skier getting
ready to ski. Return to a fallen skier without delay,
but always approach slowly.
Start off by idling ahead until the tow rope is tight.
When the skier signals he or she is ready, be sure
the water ahead is clear and start off with enough
 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 77

power to raise the skier. Ease up on the throttle entering the pump intake and winding around the im-
once the skier is up. Remember, before pulling up peller.
the skier, double check the path ahead for boats or
obstacles and be sure the tow rope is not wrapped
Where to Attach a Tow Rope: j
When towing a water skier, tuber, wakerboarder,
around the skier.
etc., do not tie the towrope other than the towing
Always judge the speed according to the skier’s
hook under the rear end of the seat. When towing
ability. A good speed for beginners is 29 to 40 km or
another watercraft, secure the tow rope to the tow-
18 to 25 miles per hour. Give skiers a smooth, easy
ing eyes at the stern. (See photos on the following
ride and let them signal what they want to do. Boats
page.) Use caution when towing another watercraft.
pulling skiers must follow all speed limits.
Towing affects steering control and can create a haz-
A skier’s weight and speed in turns can affect the
ardous condition. Also, other boat operators may not
steering of the watercraft by pulling it off course.
expect the watercraft to be towing anything.
Both the operator and the skier must coordinate their
actions so that the craft is not misdirected. Always
anticipate the added length of the tow rope and skier
by allowing extra time and space for maneuvering.
Turn wide and not too fast to avoid whipping the skier
at excessive speeds.
The operator should not accelerate or continue
moving when the observer or passenger is bringing
in the ski rope or otherwise not in a secure position.
To the Observer:
The observer’s job is to relay all signals from the
skier to the operator, inform the operator immedi-
ately if the skier falls, and display the ski flag. The
observer should hold the handrail securely as he or
she faces rearward to watch the water skier. The ob-
A. Towing Hook
server must also tend the ski rope to prevent it from
 78 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

Navigation Rules
j The navigation rules or nautical "rules of the road"
are like highway traffic laws. They dictate who has
the right-of-way when boats meet in open water. As
the boat operator you are obligated to know and
obey these rules. They are also legally binding on
boat operators.
This section provides basic navigation rules. We
recommend that you obtain more information on
navigation rules and navigation aids from your state
when registering your craft. If you have never owned
a boat before, an excellent introduction to the arts
A. Towing Eyes of boat handling and seamanship can be obtained
from the U.S. Power Squadrons, the U.S. Coast
Guard Auxiliary, or other volunteer organizations.
In nautical terms, the stand-on (privileged) boat
has the right of way; and the give-way (burdened)
boat must give way. Whenever you come near an-
other boat, be cautious and use common sense. You
cannot rely on other boaters to know or follow these
rules.
Sailboats:
Sailboats have right-of-way over power boats in
nearly all cases. Stay clear of these craft and do
not create a wake which may cause them trouble.
 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 79

Overtaking and Passing Situation: Meeting Situation:

If you are meeting another power boat head on,

neither you nor the other boat has right-of-way. Each
boat should keep to its right.

Give-way (Burdened) Stand-on (Privileged)

Vessel Overtaking Vessel Being Overtaken
If you are overtaking and passing another boat,
the boat being passed has right-of-way, and you are
required to stay clear.
 80 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Crossing Situation: carefully for a water skier or any towed object. Pass
behind the object in tow.
If you have another boat on the left, you have right
j -of-way. You must keep your course and speed.

Give-way Stand-on (Privileged) Vessel

(Burdened) holds course and speed.
Vessel
If you have another power boat on your right, the
boat on the right has right-of-way. You must keep out
of the way of the boat by directing your course to the
starboard (right) and passing astern of (behind) the
stand-on boat. If necessary, you may have to slow,
stop, or reverse your craft to allow the stand-on boat
to pass. Before passing behind another boat, look
 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 81

Cable Adjustments section in the MAINTENANCE

Pre-ride Checklist AND ADJUSTMENTS chapter). The throttle lever
must return to the fully closed position when re-
Each day before using the watercraft, check the leased.
j
following items:
WARNING
Check Outside Craft:
If the throttle does not return freely and com-
Ƒ CLEAN PUMP - Clear the water inlet, jet pump, pletely, it may cause loss of control.
and drive shaft of foreign objects.
Ƒ PUMP COVER TIGHT - Check the jet pump cover Ƒ VENTILATE ENGINE COMPARTMENT - Open
and inlet grate for looseness. Tighten the mount- the front storage case lid, remove the seats and
ing bolts, if needed. keep open for several minutes to purge gasoline
Ƒ HULL DAMAGE - Inspect the hull for damage. fumes from the engine compartment.
Ƒ DRAIN SCREWS - Check that the drain screws in
the stern are securely installed. WARNING
Ƒ STEERING-Check the operation of the steering
for binding, rough spots, or excessive play. Ad- A concentration of gasoline fumes in the en-
just the cable if needed (see the Control Cable gine compartment can cause a fire or explo-
Adjustments section in the MAINTENANCE AND sion.
ADJUSTMENTS chapter). The steering cable is
sealed at both ends and does not need lubrica- Ƒ BATTERY TERMINALS - Check the battery termi-
tion. If the seals are damaged, the cable must be nal screws for tightness, and make sure terminal
replaced. covers are in place.
Ƒ SHIFT LEVER - Check the operation of the shift WARNING
lever for binding, rough spots or excessive play.
Adjust the cable if needed (see the Control Cable Loose battery cables can create sparks
Adjustments section in the MAINTENANCE AND which can cause a fire or explosion resulting
ADJUSTMENTS chapter). in injury or death. Make sure the battery
terminal screws are tightened securely and
Check Inside Craft:
the covers are installed over the terminals.
Ƒ THROTTLE CONTROL - Check the operation of
the throttle for binding, rough spots or excessive Ƒ FIRE EXTINGUISHER - Check your fire extin-
play. Adjust the cable if needed (see the Control guisher for a full charge.
 82 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Ƒ FUEL PRESSURE - Loosen the fuel tank cap WARNING
to relieve any pressure, then tighten the cap se-
Do not run the engine in a closed area. Ex-
curely.
j Ƒ FUEL LEVEL - Check the fuel level. Refill if nec- haust gases contain carbon monoxide: a col-
orless, odorless, poisonous gas. Breathing
essary.
exhaust gas leads to carbon monoxide poi-
Ƒ ENGINE OIL LEVEL - Check the oil level in the soning, asphyxiation, and death.
engine. Refill if necessary. Refer to GENERAL
INFORMATION CHAPTER, Engine Oil section.
Ƒ FUEL LEAKS - Check the engine compartment for CAUTION
fuel leaks.
Ƒ OIL LEAKS - Check the engine compartment for Do not run the engine with the watercraft out
oil leaks. of the water for more than 15 seconds at a
Ƒ FASTENERS - Check and tighten any loose bolts, time. Overheating will cause engine and ex-
nuts, or clamps. haust system damage.
Ƒ HOSE CONNECTIONS - Be sure all hose connec-
tions are secure and that all hose clamps are tight. Ƒ STOP BUTTON- Again start the engine, run it for
Check all hoses for cracks or deterioration and re- a few seconds, and then check that the engine
place if necessary. “STOP" button works.
Ƒ DRAIN BILGE - Drain any water out of the engine Ƒ SEATS- Check that the seat latches are secure.
compartment by removing the drain screws. In- Ƒ STORAGE COMPARTMENT- Check that the lid is
stall the drain screws securely when all the water secure.
has been drained. Ƒ RIDER PROTECTION- Always wear the proper
Ƒ ENGINE SHUT-OFF LANYARD KEY-Start the en- flotation device and protective gear.
gine and run it for a few seconds (see the Starting Ƒ MULTIFUNCTION METER- Check the operation
the Engine section). Pull the lanyard key off the of the multifunction meter. See GENERAL IN-
engine stop button to check that the engine stops FORMATION chapter for the detail.
immediately.
Ƒ AIR BOX DRAIN CAP - Check for water and dis-
charge it if there is any.
 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 83

Break-In Stopping the Engine

A new watercraft should be ridden with care dur- The engine can be stopped in one of the following
j
ing the break-in period to allow mechanical compo- two ways.
nents to "bed-in" and produce smooth, long wearing żPush the red “STOP” button. It is not necessary
surfaces. to hold the button "in" to stop the engine. After the
During the first five minutes of engine operation, engine stops, the “STOP" button resets itself and
do not exceed the engine revolution more than 2 500 the engine is ready to start.
rpm. żPull the engine shut-off lanyard key off the stop
During the first five hours of engine operation, do button. To start the engine the lanyard key must
not subject the engine to heavy lugging or prolonged be pushed under the stop button.
full throttle operation. For this period, up to 3/4 throt-
tle is recommended. Remove the ignition switch key after stopping the
Vary the operating speed often, not running for a engine in either case.
prolonged time at any one speed. Avoid full throttle
starts. WARNING
Careful treatment of the craft during the break-in You have no directional control of the water-
period will result in more efficient, reliable perfor- craft when the engine is stopped.
mance and a longer life for the craft.
In addition to the break-in described above, we
recommend that the owner take his watercraft to an
authorized Kawasaki JET SKI dealer after the first
ten hours of operation for initial maintenance ser-
vice. See the Periodic Maintenance Chart in the
MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS chapter.
 84 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING
After riding, remove the ignition switch key
j and engine shut-off lanyard key from water-
craft to avoid unauthorized use by children
or others.

CAUTION
Always remove the ignition switch key after
stopping the engine to prevent the battery
from discharging.

A. Engine Stop Button

B. Lanyard Key
If the engine must be stopped immediately in an
emergency, push the “RED" engine stop button or
pull the engine shut-off lanyard key off the stop but-
ton.
Some possible “EMERGENCY" situations are:
• The engine speeds out of control.
• The throttle lever does not release completely.

WARNING
If the throttle fails, do not operate the water-
craft until the source of the problem is found
and corrected.
 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 85

CAUTION
Starting the Engine The watercraft must be in water at least 0.8
m (2.5 ft) deep when starting to prevent jet j
• Read the Pre-ride Checklist in this manual and
follow its instructions before putting the watercraft
pump damage by objects sucked up from the
bottom.
in the water.
• After transporting or refueling and before starting
the engine, open the front storage compartment • Inthethestopseated position push the lanyard key under
button and put your left hand through the
lid and remove the seats for several minutes to other end of the lanyard to attach it to your wrist
ventilate the engine compartment. and keep it free from handlebars so that engine
stops if operator falls off. Pull the lanyard to make
WARNING sure it is securely attached.
A concentration of gasoline fumes in the en- NOTE
gine compartment can cause a fire or explo-
sion. żThe engine neither cranks nor starts with the lan-
yard key removed from the stop button.
• Place the watercraft in at least 0.8 m (2.5 feet) of
water which is clear of weeds and debris. Make • Insert the ignition key into the key slot in the center
storage case and press the key further in.
sure the area ahead of the watercraft is clear of
swimmers, boats, and obstacles. NOTE
żThis watercraft is equipped with two kinds of igni-
tion keys, SLO and FPO, choose an appropriate
key depending on your skill. Also those keys are
equipped with immobilizer system, use coded and
registered keys only. Refer to the Ignition Switch
section in GENERAL INFORMATION chapter for
more details.

• Be sure to keep the key inserted in the slot while

riding the watercraft. This is important because if
you lose the keys at sea you will be unable to start
the engine again and may end up being stranded.
 86 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

• and
With your left hand, push the green start button
release it when the engine starts. If the en-
CAUTION
Do not push the start button while the engine
gine does not start within 5 seconds, release the
j button. Wait 15 seconds before trying again. If the
is running or while the starter is still spin-
ning, as it will hasten starter wear and may
engine does not start after several attempts, see
cause the starter to jam.
the TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE chapter.
• After the engine has started, allow it to warm up for
about 1 minute. Apply a little throttle occasionally.
Excessive idling can foul the spark plugs.
• Check that water comes out of the bypass outlet
in the right side of the hull when the throttle is ap-
plied. This indicates that cooling water is circulat-
ing. If there is none, shut off the engine and find
the source of the trouble. When the exhaust sys-
tem is dry, it can take up to 15 seconds for water
to appear at the bypass outlet.

A. Start Button
B. Lanyard Key

NOTE
żWait 15 seconds between each operation of the
starter. This will extend battery and starter life sig-
nificantly.

A. Bypass Outlet
 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 87

CAUTION
Launching Avoid quick turns or acceleration when leav-
ing the dock, or you might hit the dock and j
Launching from a Dock: damage the watercraft. The operator should
make sure there is room for a turn before
• Do not jump onto the watercraft from the dock.
making any quick maneuvers.
• First place one foot on the deck near the dock,
then while holding the handlebar and balancing
the craft by transferring body weight straddle the • Accelerate gradually as you proceed into open wa-
ter. Remember to observe "No Wake" zones and
craft and sit down on the seat.
speed limits.
• Check that the shift lever is in the "F" position to
go forward or "R" for reverse. • As speed increases the boat will level out in the
water. This is called planing.
• When leaving the dock, either push the watercraft
away from the dock or run at a slight angle away • Once the boat has planed, you can back off the
from it until there is enough room for the rear of throttle and select your desired speed.
the craft to swing, since the watercraft turns at the • Keep alert for other boats, swimmers, or obstruc-
tions in your path.
stern and not at the bow.
• Check that the water in your path is clear and
move the handlebar in the direction you want to
Launching from a Ramp:

go. • Before putting the watercraft in the water, be sure

you have followed the Pre-ride Checklist.
WARNING • Before launching, check the ramp for suitable sur-
face conditions, inclination and width for both the
Don’t forget to watch out for other boats or trailer and tow vehicle.
obstructions in your path. This is especially
critical during a beginner’s first exciting ride.
• Attach a bow line to the watercraft and detach the
trailer tie-downs.

• Apply the throttle to produce enough thrust from CAUTION

the jet pump to allow directional control over the Be sure the drain screws in the stern are
watercraft. securely installed to prevent the craft from
flooding and swamping.
 88 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

• water.
Wait until it’s your turn then back the trailer to the
Unlock the winch and push the craft slowly
WARNING
The operator should always stop the engine
off the trailer into the water.
j and pull the engine shut-off lanyard key be-
• Move your watercraft to a docking or loading area
and park your tow vehicle. Do not block the ramp.
fore a passenger uses the reboarding step.
A passenger could be injured if their leg
Deep Water Start: slips through the reboarding step and they
are dragged through the water.
Solo Operation The passenger should not use the reboard-
• Move to the rear of the watercraft. ing step while the engine is running.
• Make sure the engine is stopped.
• Grasp either the handrail behind the seat or the
towing hook under the handrail, pull the reboard- Shallow Water Start:
ing step down, and while placing one knee and Whenever possible, anchor the watercraft in shal-
then one foot or both feet on the step, pull your- low water instead of dragging it onto shore. This will
self up onto the deck. Place one knee on the deck reduce scratches to the hull and prevent sand and
rear end, then the other. Be careful not to slip on rocks from entering into the jet pump causing dam-
the step or boat as you reboard. age to the pump when restarting the engine.
• Grasp the hand strap and while balancing the craft
place your feet on the deck.
If the watercraft is beached, sand and rocks which
are pushed into the jet pump by natural wave action
• Sit astride the seat. can be flushed out by pushing down on the stern
vigorously many times.
Operator and Passengers
• While the operator is balancing the craft, the pas-
sengers climb aboard from the rear of the craft in
CAUTION
the same way as in Solo Operation. The watercraft must be in water at least 0.8
m (2.5 ft) deep when starting to prevent jet
pump damage by objects sucked up from the
bottom.

• You can board either from the side of the craft

or from the rear. In either case balance the craft
when going aboard for more stability.
 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 89

CAUTION
Stopping the JET SKI Watercraft Stop the engine before the water is less than
0.8 m (2.5 ft) deep from the seabed to prevent j
Normal Stopping: jet pump damage by objects sucked up from
the bottom.
WARNING 3. Press the engine stop button or pull the lanyard
Never directly approach any moving or sta- key off the stop button to come to a complete
tionary object closer than 100 m (328 feet) stop.
when traveling at top speed. Always throt-
tle down before approaching your intended
stopping area.

WARNING
Do not shift into reverse to brake the craft,
or the watercraft bow may suddenly dive into
the water, which can cause injury to the oc-
cupants by throwing them forward.

This watercraft is stopped by using natural water

drag to bring the craft to a halt.
1. Release the throttle before you reach your in-
tended stopping area.
A. Throttle Lever
2. Coast towards the stopping area with the engine
idling.
 90 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Push the engine stop button when you are ap-
proaching the shore and intend to stop. The engine
stops immediately, so it prevents sand or debris from
j entering and damaging the jet pump. Never run the
engine in water less than 0.8 m (2.5 ft) deep.

WARNING
Do not stop the engine if you may need to
reapply throttle to quickly steer the water-
craft. You have no directional control when
the engine is stopped.

Stopping Skills:
A. Engine Stop Button Stopping distance depends partially on rider and
B. Lanyard Key passenger weight and position, idle set speed, and
Releasing the throttle slows forward motion but the operating speed. Experienced operators can usu-
engine will still be running, so you can steer the boat ally shorten stopping distance by using various rid-
after reapplying the throttle. In this manner you can ing techniques. Turning the boat sharply (using the
turn and move away from any obstacles. throttle) while stopping is a method which can be
used to decrease stopping distance.
WARNING Minimum Stopping Distances:
Releasing the throttle completely reduces The minimum stopping distance of this watercraft
the ability to steer. This can cause you to hit with the operator and passengers from maximum
an object you are trying to avoid. You must speed is 103 m (340 ft).
have thrust to turn, so keep the throttle on or This information represents results obtained under
apply throttle as needed to maintain thrust controlled conditions, and the information may not
at the jet nozzle. be correct under other conditions.
 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 91

Using the throttle is another important part of turn-

Turning the JET SKI Watercraft ing maneuvers. Applying the throttle produces thrust
from the jet pump giving you directional control over
Turning the watercraft requires a combination of the watercraft.
j
two actions: High thrust of the jet pump makes the boat turn
żTurning the handlebar more sharply.
żUsing the throttle

Point the handlebar to Point the handlebar to

the left for a left turn the right for a right turn

LEFT RIGHT
 92 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Low thrust of the jet pump makes the boat turn less If you release the throttle completely, there is little
sharply. thrust of the jet pump. The boat turns slowly and
steering ability is reduced.
j

IDLE = SLOW, GRADUAL TURN

WARNING
Releasing the throttle completely reduces
the ability to steer. This can cause you to hit
an object you are trying to avoid. You must
have thrust to turn, so keep the throttle on or
apply throttle as needed to maintain thrust
at the jet nozzle.
 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 93

If you stop the engine while riding, there is no WARNING

thrust of the jet pump. The boat goes straight ahead
This is a very maneuverable, sport water-
even though the handlebar is turned.
craft. Quick turns or acceleration can cause j
the passengers to fall overboard, and can
cause an accident with other boats.
The operator should look carefully for other
boats before making any quick maneuvers.
The passengers should hold on during quick
turns.

Your Kawasaki Smart SteeringTM (KSSTM) JET SKI

watercraft assists you in learning to negotiate turns
and maneuver. Refer to the Control section in the
NO THRUST = NO TURN GENERAL INFORMATION chapter.

WARNING
Do not stop the engine if you may need to
reapply throttle to quickly steer the water-
craft. You have no directional control when
the engine is stopped.

This is one characteristic of jet drive boats which

is important to remember when you make an emer-
gency maneuver: YOU MUST HAVE THRUST TO
TURN, so keep the throttle on or apply throttle as
needed to maintain thrust at the jet nozzle.
• Throttle down before entering a turn.
 94 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

Operating the JET SKI Watercraft in Docking the JET SKI Watercraft
j Reverse
• When docking use the throttle efficiently both to
• Be sure to slow the watercraft to a stop before
shifting to reverse while running forward. Release
control the craft’s speed and to keep directional
control over the craft.
the throttle lever completely. Pause for a while
so the watercraft slows down, then move the shift
• When you are approaching the shore where you
intend to land, push the engine stop button to pre-
lever into the "R" position. vent sand from entering the jet pump and the im-
peller. Do not operate the engine in water shal-
WARNING lower than 0.8 m (2.5 ft).
Do not shift into reverse while running for- CAUTION
ward at high speed and do not use reverse as
a brake, or the watercraft bow may suddenly Do not run the watercraft onto the shore, or
dive into the water, which can cause injury severe impeller or hull damage may occur
to the occupants by throwing them forward. and the water wheel at the stern may be dam-
The operator should slow the watercraft to a aged causing the speedometer to malfunc-
stop and alert the passengers before shifting tion.
to Reverse. Do not operate in shallow or debris-laden wa-
ter, or the impeller may be damaged and sand
• Turn around and look behind you before backing
up to be sure there are no other boats, swimmers,
may clog the water cooling hoses.

or obstructions in your path. Do not rely solely

on the rear view mirrors; you may not see them
• Remember that stopping the engine causes you
to lose steering control, so cut the engine only
clearly, or at all. Gradually open the throttle and after you have reduced speed and maneuvered
begin backing up cautiously. into your final approaching position. You cannot
make any emergency maneuvers with the engine
stopped.
 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 95

When the “LED" warning light goes on and “FUEL"

Riding the JET SKI Watercraft character and the last segment begin flashing, 32
liters (8.5 U.S. gal) of fuel remain. Reduce speed to
On your first ride, straddle the craft and sit down less than half-throttle and fill the fuel tank as soon as
j
on the seat. Familiarize yourself with the handling possible because there is no reserve tank in this wa-
of the boat. Vary the engine speed with the throttle tercraft. (See the Multifunction Meter section in the
lever to get the feel of throttle influence on steering. GENERAL INFORMATION chapter for more detail.)
If porpoising occurs, that is, the front of the craft
rises and falls rapidly, move your body weight further Stay alert at all times, and keep away from other
forward. boats, swimmers, and obstructions.
WARNING Fall Recovery:
Never ride with your chin immediately above If the operator falls off the craft, the lanyard key is
the handlebar. If you should hit a wave, you pulled off of the engine stop button and the engine
might injure yourself. is stopped immediately.

The engine revolution of the watercraft will be au-

WARNING
tomatically controlled to 3 000 rpm if some engine When you fall, do not hang onto the handle-
-related parts fail to function properly. bar. Let go, or you might injure yourself by
If the warning light, Fl indicator and “Fl” charac- striking the watercraft.
ter start flashing with buzzer sound or the warning
light, engine oil pressure indicator and “OILt” charac-
ter start flashing with buzzer sound, return to shore
• The best way to hit the water is bottom first, legs
together, with your arms over your head. This can
immediately and have the engine checked by your help prevent injury from underwater objects.
authorized Kawasaki JET SKI dealer.
The engine revolution will also be controlled to
• Go back aboard from the rear of the craft. Push
the lanyard key under the stop button, and push
3 000 rpm automatically when the water or engine the start button to start the engine.
oil temperatures or engine oil pressure warning start
Righting the Capsized Watercraft:
flashing. Return to shore immediately and check the
cooling system or engine oil level and add the rec- If the watercraft should capsize, the engine is
ommended oil if necessary. stopped by the lanyard key being pulled off of the
If other causes are suspected, see your authorized engine stop button by the operator. Use the follow-
Kawasaki JET SKI dealer. ing procedure immediately to right the craft.
 96 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING • Now, push down on the rear corner of the hull with
one foot, using your body weight to roll the cap-
This watercraft will not self-right if capsized.
sized craft toward you.
j Operators must know the proper righting
procedure or they could be stranded. • As the craft rolls over toward you, reach for the far
side of the hull, if needed, and pull it on over.

• Make sure the engine is stopped. If it is not

stopped, immediately pull the lanyard key off the
CAUTION
stop button or push the stop button to stop the Turn the capsized boat clockwise so that the
engine. port side always faces downward. Turning
counterclockwise can cause water in the
CAUTION exhaust system to run into the engine, with
possible engine damage.
If the engine continues running with the craft
capsized, water can enter the supercharger,
throttle body and engine, locking the engine.
This will cause severe and immediate dam-
age to internal engine parts.
Do not operate the watercraft with water in
the engine.
Do not try to start the engine until it is com-
pletely empty of water; internal engine parts
could be severely and immediately damaged.
If water gets into the engine compartment,
follow the procedure described in the After
Submerging section.

• Swim to the rear corner of the capsized craft.

• Push down on the port side of the craft with one
hand and reach across the hull and grasp the rear
of the deck with the other, as though trying to pull
• After the watercraft has capsized and been
righted, it may have water in the engine com-
yourself up onto the bottom of the hull. partment. Carefully go back aboard from the
rear, trying not to let more water into the engine
compartment under the seats.
 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 97

NOTE Please note that since this watercraft is equipped

żIf you have a passenger, he or she may want to with the supercharger, special care is needed when
the water has entered it.
return to shore on another watercraft to decrease j
the load on yours, and prevent it from taking on You need systematic inspections and remedies for
more water. the swamped watercraft. The following procedure
explains the necessary steps you must provide.
• Tow the watercraft slowly to shore, beach it, and
drain the water out of the engine compartment.
Read carefully the summary of the procedure first,
and then their detailed steps.
This will help prevent getting water in the engine,
which could cause severe and immediate damage
to internal engine parts.
After Submerging:

CAUTION
Do not operate the watercraft with water in
the engine.
Do not try to start the engine until it is com-
pletely empty of water; internal engine parts
could be severely and immediately damaged.
If water gets into the engine, follow this pro-
cedure immediately! If water is left in the en-
gine more than a few hours, it will destroy the
crankshaft bearings and damage other inter-
nal engine parts.

If the watercraft becomes swamped, water may

enter the engine and the supercharger. Water also
may enter the fuel tank.
 98 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Summary of the steps Details of the steps
1. Remove the watercraft from the water and re-
move the seats.
j 2. Observe the water level in the engine compart-
ment.
3. If the drive shaft is already submerged, drain
the water from the drain screws at the stern and
take the watercraft to your authorized dealer for
services immediately.
4. If the water level is below the drive shaft, drain
the water from the drain screws and proceed the
work in the following manners.
5. Check the drain cap at the bottom of air box for
water.

A. Air Box
B. Drain Cap
C. Fuel Tank
 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 99

6. If there is water, take the watercraft to the dealer take the watercraft to your authorized dealer for
for services immediately since there is a great services immediately. Do not operate the starter
possibility that water has entered the super- for longer than 5 seconds. Wait 15 seconds
charger and the engine. before using it again.
j
7. If there is no water in it, continue the following
steps. WARNING
8. Disconnect the two connectors on the primary Do not lean over the engine when performing
ignition cables located at the right front of the this procedure. A water and gasoline mixture
engine will be forcibly ejected from the spark plug
holes and could get into your eyes. If you do
get some in your eyes, wash your eyes imme-
diately with liberal amounts of clean, fresh
water. Consult a physician as soon as pos-
sible.
13. If there is no water coming out of the engine,
spray the spark plugs clean with air and then
restore them with their plug caps.
14. Reconnect the primary ignition cable connec-
tors.
NOTE
żBe sure to make correct connections.
Reconnect the cable connectors from No.1 & 4
A. Cable Connectors spark plugs with the cables marked and tagged 1
B. Engine Front End & 4, and connectors from No. 2 & 3 spark plugs
9. Pull and remove all the spark plug caps. with the cables marked 2 & 3. Make sure the con-
10. Remove all spark plugs. nector numbering by tracking the cables from the
11. Insert the ignition switch key, push the lanyard spark plugs.
key under the stop button, and push the start
button.
żBefore reconnecting, apply a high quality water-
proof marine grease to the connectors.
12. If there is water in the engine, it will be pumped
out from the plug holes, discharge the water and
 100 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
17. If the oil looks milky, then change the oil and
repeat items 15 & 16 until the oil does not turn
milky any more.
j 18. If the engine doe not start, there may be water
in the fuel system.
19. If the fuel tank has water in it, it must be emptied
with pump or siphon. Refill the tank with fresh
fuel. Dispose of the contaminated fuel at an
appropriate hazardous waste site.

WARNING
Gasoline is extremely flammable and can
be explosive under certain conditions. Pull
the lanyard key off the stop button. Do not
A. Cable Connector (from No.1 & 4 spark plugs) smoke.
B. Do. (from No.2 & 3 spark plugs) Make sure the area is well-ventilated and free
C. I.D. Tags (cables from ECU) from any source of flame or sparks; this in-
15. Start the engine by pressing the start button and cludes any appliance with a pilot light.
run less than 15 seconds.
CAUTION WARNING
Do not run the engine with the watercraft out Gasoline is a toxic substance. Dispose of
of water for more than 15 seconds at a time. gasoline properly. Contact your local author-
Overheating will cause severe engine and ex- ities for approved disposal methods.
haust system damage.
Never operate the engine at maximum speed 20. Continued trouble may require cleaning of the
out of water. Severe engine damage may oc- fuel line to drain water.
cur. 21. Open the front storage lid, remove the storage
case and check for water in the storage com-
16. Remove the dipstick and check for the water partment. If necessary, drain the water from the
presence in the engine oil. (If there is water in, drain plug at the bottom. Also remove the re-
oil looks milky.) cess cover and check the battery condition.
 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 101

End of the Day Checklist

These watercraft are not meant to be left in the
j
water for extended periods. Boats that are left in
the water are hauled out periodically, the bottoms
scraped and repainted with antifouling paint. Also
electrolysis can cause pump failure through erosion
of metal parts.
First, Drain the Exhaust System:
• Remove the watercraft from the water.
• Start the engine and run it for several seconds to
purge the exhaust system of excess water. Rev
A. Front Storage Compartment the engine repeatedly, until water stops coming
B. Drain Plugs out of the exhaust at the stern.
C. Battery Recess Cover
22. Reinstall the seats and secure them.
CAUTION
23. Reinstall the drain screws in the stern. Never operate the engine at maximum speed
24. Finally run the watercraft IN WATER for at least out of the water. Severe engine damage may
10 minutes to dry any remaining water and blow occur.
any foreign matter (like salt) out through the ex- Do not run the engine with the watercraft out
haust. of the water for more than 15 seconds at a
time. overheating will cause engine and ex-
haust system damage.

• After each use in salt water, flush the cooling

system with fresh water (see the Cooling System
Flushing section in the MAINTENANCE AND
ADJUSTMENTS chapter). This will help prevent
build up of salt deposits and eventual cooling
system blockage.
 102 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Second, Clean the Engine Compartment: Third, Clean the Outside Hull:
•Remove the seats. • Wash the hull, deck, water intake, and propulsion
j •If water has accumulated in the engine compart-
ment, remove the drain screws in the stern to drain
system with fresh water.
NOTE
water out of the compartment. Be sure to reinstall
the drain screws after draining. żPersonal watercraft are not meant to be left in the
water for extended periods. Continuous exposure
•When the watercraft has been used at sea, rinse
the engine room with fresh water.
to water over a long period of time will cause the
hull paint to bubble and peel. It also causes elec-
CAUTION trolytic erosion of the metal parts of the jet pump,
decreasing its service life. Larger boats which are
Be careful not to spray electric equipment; left in the water must be hauled out periodically,
also prevent water from entering the air in- so the bottom of the hull can be scraped and re-
take box in front of the engine. painted with anti-fouling paint. They also usually
have a sacrificial anode to reduce electrolytic ero-
• Ifweek,
you will not use the watercraft for more than one
lubricate the internal engine components to
sion of metal parts in contact with the water. Your
watercraft will last longer and look better, if you re-
help prevent corrosion. move it from the water at the end of every day’s
• If you will not use the watercraft more than two
weeks, remove the battery and keep fully charged
use.
using a maintenance charger. See MAINTE-
NANCE & ADJUSTMENT chapter.
• Wipe the engine compartment dry, and install the
seats.
• When the watercraft is ready for storage, leave the
seats off, or block it up with 10 mm (one half inch)
spacers to aid air circulation and prevent conden-
sation from forming.
 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 103

Special Procedures
• Clean the water intake, drive shaft, impeller, jet
pump housing, outlet, and steering nozzle of any
seaweed, grass, or other debris.
j
Clearing Clogged Impeller:
Occasionally, weeds or other debris may lodge
in the impeller/jet pump, severely impairing per-
formance. This foreign matter must be completely
cleaned out for the jet pump to function properly.
• Shut off the engine, and beach the craft.

WARNING
Never attempt to clear the jet pump of debris
while the engine is running, or a severe in-
jury can occur. Stop the engine and pull the
lanyard key off the stop button before check-
ing the pump for debris.

• Pull the lanyard key off the stop button. CAUTION

• Place a protective pad next to the boat.
Be sure the pump area and all its compo-
• Tip the boat on port side and remove the jet pump
grate and cover, if necessary. nents are completely clear. Engine cooling
water is supplied by the jet pump, and any
CAUTION loss of pump performance may cause over-
heating.
Always turn the boat on port side when
rolling. Rolling to the starboard side can
cause water in the exhaust system to run • Reinstall the jet pump cover and grate, apply non
-permanent locking agent to the bolts before se-
into the engine, with possible engine dam- curely tightening.
age.
Bolts Tightening Torque:
7.8 N·m (0.8 kgf·m, 69 in·lb)
 104 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Cleaning Fouled Spark Plugs: Jump Starting:
Fouled spark plugs can result from several If your watercraft’s battery is run down, it should
j causes. Among them, low idle speed and pro- be removed and charged. If this is not practical, a
longed idling. Water in the fuel or inside the engine booster battery and jumper cables may be used to
can also cause spark plug fouling. start the engine. The booster battery must be of the
• Remove the fouled spark plugs and install clean,
dry plugs. Fouled plugs may be cleaned with
same voltage as the watercraft battery (12 V).

electrical contact cleaner (P/N K61080-001B). WARNING

Wet plugs may be cleaned with a penetrating rust Battery acid generates hydrogen gas which
inhibitor, such as WD40 or Bel-Ray 6 in 1. is flammable and explosive under certain
Spark Plugs Tightening Torque: conditions. It is present within a battery at
11 ∼ 15 N·m (1.1 ∼ 1.5 kgf·m, 8 ∼11 ft·lb) all times, even in a discharged condition.
Keep all flames and sparks (cigarettes) away
from the battery. Wear eye protection when
• Start the engine, using very little throttle. working with a battery. In the event of bat-
tery acid contact with skin, eyes, or clothing,
Towing the JET SKI Watercraft:
wash the affected areas immediately with
In case you run out of fuel, have engine problems water for at least five minutes. Seek medical
or other complications, the watercraft may be towed. attention.
Attach one end of a 6 m (20 foot) tow rope to the eye
in the bow and the other end to the tow boat. Towing • Remove the ignition switch key.
must be slow, not over 8 km/h (5 mph). • Lay a cloth over
Remove the seats and front storage case.
CAUTION • battery. the open vents of the booster

It is important that these instructions be • Connect a jumper cable between the positive (+)
terminals of the two batteries.
followed or the engine compartment could
flood and the watercraft could partially sub- • Connect one end of the remaining jumper cable to
the negative (–) terminal of the booster battery.
merge.
 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 105

CAUTION • Connect the other end of the remaining jumper

cable to the exhaust pipe bolt.
Connecting two batteries in reverse polarity
(+ to –) can seriously damage the electrical j
system.

A. Negative Cable
B. Exhaust Pipe

A. Positive Cable WARNING

B. Battery
Do not make this last connection at the throt-
tle body, injector or battery. Take care that
you do not short the cables together, and do
not lean over the battery when making this
last connection. Do not jump start a frozen
battery. It could explode.
 106 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
CAUTION CAUTION
Do not operate the starter continuously for If the engine overheats, the “LED” warning
j more than 5 seconds or the starter will over- light goes on and “HEAt” or “OILH” charac-
heat. Wait 15 seconds between each opera- ters, with engine cooling water temperature
tion of the starter to let it cool. indicator or engine oil pressure indicator
flash and the engine slows down, return to
• Start the watercraft engine following the standard
engine starting procedure and then disconnect the
shore immediately. To prevent engine dam-
age, do not operate the craft until the cause
jumper cables in the reverse of the sequence just of overheating is corrected.
described.
• Dispose of the cloth covering the booster battery.
Engine Overheating:
This watercraft is equipped with temperature sen-
sors for cooling water and engine oil. The warning
light will go on and engine cooling water temper-
ature indicator, and “HEAt” character or engine oil
overheat indicator and “OILH” character will fash de-
pending on which sensor is activated.
A buzzer will also sound.
The engine revolution is automatically controlled
to 3 000 rpm if the engine overheats.
• If the above warning is made and the watercraft
slows down, return to shore immediately and
check the cooling system for clogging or engine
oil for the level. If you suspect other causes, see
your authorized Kawasaki JET SKI watercraft
dealer.
 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 107

After transporting and before starting engine, open

Transporting the front storage compartment and remove the seats
for several minutes to ventilate the engine room.
j
• When transporting the watercraft on a trailer, ob-
serve the trailer laws and regulations in your area. WARNING
• Be sure the trailer matches with the craft’s weight
and hull design.
A concentration of gasoline fumes in the en-
gine compartment can cause a fire or explo-
• Securely fasten the watercraft to prevent move-
ment between the craft and trailer.
sion.

CAUTION
Never attach tie-downs to the handrail be-
hind the seat nor to the hook under the seat
rear end.
Do not allow anything to touch the water
wheel at the stern, or it may be damaged
causing the speedometer to malfunction.
 108 STORAGE

STORAGE
During the winter, or whenever your watercraft will
not be in use for more than 30 days, proper stor- Preparation for Storage
age is essential. It consists of checking and replac-
j ing missing or worn parts; lubricating parts to en-
Cooling System:
sure that they do not become rusted; and, in gen-
eral, preparing the watercraft so that when the time •Clean the cooling system (See the Cooling Sys-
tem Flushing section in the MAINTENANCE AND
comes to use it again, it will be in top condition. See
your Kawasaki JET SKI dealer for this service or do ADJUSTMENTS chapter).
the following.
NOTE
żPersonal watercraft are not meant to be left in the
water for extended periods. Continuous exposure
to water over a long period of time will cause the
hull paint to bubble and peel. It also causes elec-
trolytic erosion of the metal parts of the jet pump,
decreasing its service life. Larger boats which are
left in the water must be hauled out periodically,
so the bottom of the hull can be scraped and re-
painted with anti-fouling paint. They also usually
have a sacrificial anode to reduce electrolytic ero-
sion of metal parts in contact with the water. Your
watercraft will last longer and look better, if you re-
move it from the water at the end of every day’s
use.
 STORAGE 109

Bilge System:
• Remove the handrail plate.

A. Blow air through all four hoses.

Engine Oil
A. Nuts
B. Handrail Plate •Change the engine oil. See MAINTENANCE AND
ADJUSTMENT chapter for the changing proce-
• Clean the bilge system (see the Bilge System
Flushing section in the MAINTENANCE AND AD-
dure.
Fuel System and Engine:
JUSTMENTS chapter), and before reconnecting
the four hoses to the plastic breather fittings, blow • Wash the engine compartment with fresh water
and remove the drain screws in the stern to drain
air through the hoses to force all water out of the
bilge system. the water. Wipe up any water left in the compart-
ment.
 110 STORAGE

WARNING CAUTION
Gasoline is extremely flammable and can Do not run the engine with the watercraft out
be explosive under certain conditions. Pull of the water for more than 15 seconds at a
the lanyard key off the stop button. Do not time. overheating will cause severe engine
smoke. Make sure the area is well ventilated and exhaust system damage.
j and free from any source of flame or sparks;
this includes any appliance with a pilot light. • Drain the fuel tank according to the method men-
tioned before.
• Lift the stern upward a little so that fuel and water
in the bottom of the fuel tank may flow toward the
• Leave the fuel filler cap loose to prevent conden-
sation in the tank.
fuel filler to completely drain the fuel tank. this
should be done with a siphon or pump.
• Disconnect the two connectors on the primary igni-
tion cables located at the right front of the engine.

WARNING
Gasoline is a toxic substance. Dispose of
gasoline properly. Contact your local author-
ities for approved disposal methods.

• Inspect/clean the fuel pump screen.

(See the Fuel System in the MAINTENANCE AND
ADJUSTMENT chapter.)
• Refill the fuel tank with fresh fuel approximately 10
L (2.6 gal U.S.).
• Insert the ignition switch.
• Push the lanyard key under the stop button, start
the engine, and run it in fifteen second periods
until the fuel in the fuel system is changed with A. Cable Connectors
the fresh fuel. Wait five minutes between fifteen B. Engine Front End
second running periods.
• Remove the spark plugs.
• Spray fogging oil directly into each cylinder.
 STORAGE 111

• Turn the engine over several times with the start

button to coat the cylinder walls.

WARNING
Do not lean over the engine when perform-
ing this procedure. An air/oil mist may be j
forcibly ejected from the spark plug holes
and could get into your eyes. If you do get
some in your eyes, wash your eyes immedi-
ately with liberal amounts of clean, fresh wa-
ter. Consult a physician as soon as possible.

• Spray
them.
the spark plugs with fogging oil, and reinstall
A. Cable Connector (from No.1 & 4 spark plugs)
Spark Plugs Tightening Torque: B. Do. (from No.2 & 3 spark plugs)
11 ∼ 15 N·m (1.1 ∼ 1.5 kgf·m, 8.1 ∼ 11 ft·lb) C. I.D. Tags (cables from ECU)

• Pull the lanyard key off the stop button and the
ignition switch key.
Battery:

• Reinstall the spark plug caps. •Remove the battery (see the battery section in the
MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS chapter).
• Connect the primary ignition cable connectors.
•Clean the exterior with a solution of baking soda
NOTE and water (one heaping tablespoon of baking soda
żBe sure to make correct connections. in one cup of water). Rinse thoroughly with water.
Reconnect the cable connectors from No.1 & 4
spark plugs with the cables marked and tagged 1
CAUTION
& 4, and connectors from No. 2 & 3 spark plugs Never remove the sealed cap, or the battery
with the cables marked 2 & 3. Make sure the con- can be damaged.
nector numbering by tracking the cables from the
spark plugs.
żBefore reconnecting, apply a high quality water-
• Coat both battery terminals with grease.

proof marine grease to the connectors.

• Store the battery in a cool, dry place. Do not ex-
pose it to freezing temperatures. During storage
 112 STORAGE
it should be given a slow charge (one ampere or
less) about once a month. Keep the battery well
• Lightly spray all exposed metal parts with a pene-
trating rust inhibitor, such as WD40 or BEL-RAY 6
charged especially during cold weather. in 1 to prevent corrosion.
Engine Mount Bracket Bolts: • Remove the seats, or block it up with 10 mm (one
half inch) spacers to insure adequate ventilation
j •Tighten all engine mount bracket bolts. and prevent condensation from forming.
NOTE • Cover the watercraft and store it in a clean, dry
żWe recommend that you have this service done place.
by your authorized dealer since it requires special NOTE
tools. żIf the watercraft is left outside, even covered, wa-
ter can collect in the footwells on either side of
Supercharger: the seat. Water left in the footwells can cause the
Take the watercraft to your authorized dealer for paint to bubble and peel, and the mat to peel off
the following services. the deck. If the watercraft is left on the trailer, raise
• Check the lubrication oil and refill if necessary. the tongue so that any water that gets in can run
• Check the drive belt for wear/damage and tension. out of the footwells.
• Apply corrosion protection coating to the super-
charger rotors. Lubrication:
Cleaning: • Carry out all recommended lubrication proce-
dures (see the Lubrication section in the MAIN-
• Wash the exterior and dry it thoroughly. TENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS chapter).
CAUTION
Use only a mild detergent in water to wash
the watercraft. Harsh solvents may attack
the surface or smear the colors.
 STORAGE 113

Removal from Storage

• Clean the terminals of the battery and charge if
necessary. Install the battery (see the battery sec-
tion).
The following procedure explains the steps nec- • Check the fire extinguisher for a full charge.
essary to put the watercraft back in service follow-
ing a storage period. See your Kawasaki JET SKI
• Fill the fuel tank with fuel and close the filler cap
securely.
dealer for this service, or do the following. See the j
MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS chapter for WARNING
detailed procedures. Gasoline is extremely flammable and can
• Carry out all recommended lubrication procedures
(see the Lubrication section).
be explosive under certain conditions. Pull
the lanyard key off the stop button. Do not
• Check for binding or sticking throttle, steering or
shift mechanism. The throttle lever must return
smoke. Make sure the area is well ventilated
and free from any source of flame or sparks;
fully when released. this includes any appliance with a pilot light.
• Clean and gap spark plugs (see the Spark Plugs
section).
• Check all rubber hoses for weathering, cracking, • After transporting or refueling and before starting
the engine, open the front storage case lid and
or looseness. remove the seats for several minutes to ventilate
• Turn the craft on port side on a protective pad,
and remove the jet pump cover. Check cooling
the engine compartment.
and bilge hoses for weathering, cracking or loose- WARNING
ness.
• Replace them if necessary. Reinstall the cover,
apply non-permanent locking agent to the bolts
A concentration of gasoline fumes in the en-
gine compartment can cause a fire or explo-
before tightening securely. sion.
Bolts Tightening Torque:
• Check for fuel leaks. Repair if necessary.
7.8 N·m (0.8 kgf·m, 69 ft·lb)
• necessary.
Check the engine oil level. Fill the specified oil if

• Check that the drain screws in the stern are se-

curely tightened.
 114 STORAGE

WARNING CAUTION
Do not run the engine in a closed area. Ex- Never run the engine with the watercraft
haust gases contain carbon monoxide: a col- out of the water for more than 15 seconds.
orless, odorless, poisonous gas. Breathing overheating will cause severe engine and
exhaust gas leads to carbon monoxide poi- exhaust system damage. Do not run the
j soning, asphyxiation, and death. engine at maximum speed out of the water.
Severe engine damage may result.
• Start the engine and run it for 15 seconds. Check
for fuel, oil and exhaust leaks. Any leaks must be
repaired.
• Install the seats, making sure that they are locked
in place.
 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS 115

MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS

Maintenance, replacement, or repair of the emission control devices and systems may be performed
by any marine Sl engine repair establishment or individual.

EMISSION CONTROL INFORMATION

Fuel Information
THIS ENGINE IS CERTIFIED TO OPERATE ON UNLEADED REGULAR GRADE GASOLINE ONLY. j
A minimum of 90 octane of the antiknock index is recommended. The antiknock index is posted on service
station pumps in the U.S.A.

Emission Control Information

To protect the environment in which we all live, Kawasaki has incorporated an exhaust emission control sys-
tem in compliance with applicable regulations of the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

Exhaust Emission Control System

This system reduces the amount of pollutants discharged into the atmosphere by the exhaust of this engine.
The fuel, ignition and exhaust systems of this engine have been carefully designed and constructed to ensure
an efficient engine with low exhaust pollutant levels.
 116 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS
Maintenance and Warranty
Proper maintenance is necessary to ensure that your watercraft will continue to have low emission levels.
This Owner’s Manual contains those maintenance recommendations for your engine. Those items identified
by the Periodic Maintenance Chart are necessary to ensure compliance with the applicable standards.

As the owner of the Personal Watercraft, you have the responsibility to make sure that the recommended
maintenance is carried out according to the instructions in this Owner’s Manual at your own expense.

The Kawasaki Limited Emission Control System Warranty requires that you return your Personal Watercraft
j to an authorized Kawasaki Personal Watercraft dealer for remedy under warranty. Please read the warranty
carefully, and keep it valid by complying with the owner’s obligations it contains.

Tampering with Emission Control System Prohibited

Federal law prohibits the following acts or the causing thereof: (1) the removal or rendering inoperative by
any person other than for purposes of maintenance, repair, or replacement, of any device or element of design
incorporated into any new engine for the purposes of emission control prior to its sale or delivery to the ultimate
purchaser or while it is in use, or (2) the use of the engine after such device or element of design has been
removed or rendered inoperative by any person.

Among those acts presumed to constitute tampering are the acts listed below:

Do not tamper with the original emission related parts.

* The Electronic Engine Control Unit
* Fuel Pump
* Spark Plugs
* Fuel Injectors
* Supercharger with intercooler & relief-valves
 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS 117

Periodic Maintenance Chart

NOTE
żComplete the Pre-Ride Checklist before each outing.
Frequency Initial 10 Every 25 Every 50 Every 100
Description Hours Hours Hours Hours
j
ż* Inspect supercharger drive belt for wear/damage
and belt tension • •
ż* Inspect supercharger gear oil level (refill if
necessary) •(Note 1)
Inspect all hoses, hose clamps, nuts, bolts, and
fasteners • •
Lubricate throttle body cable fitting at throttle body •
Lubricate throttle control cable and throttle cable
fitting at throttle case •
ż Clean and gap spark plugs (replace if necessary) •
Lubricate steering cable/shift cable ball joints and
steering nozzle/reverse bucket pivots •
* Lubricate handlebar pivot (disassemble) •
ż* Clean fuel pump screen •
ż* Inspect/adjust valve clearances •
Inspect/clean air box drain cap •
Replace engine oil •(Note 1)
 118 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS

Frequency Initial 10 Every 25 Every 50 Every 100

Description Hours Hours Hours Hours
Replace engine oil filter •
* Inspect/tighten engine mount bolts •(Note 1)
* Inspect fuel vent check valve •
ż Inspect throttle control system •
j
Flush bilge line and filter •
Flush cooling system (after each use in salt water) •
* Inspect air suction valve •
* Inspect impeller blades for damage (remove) •
* Inspect/replace coupling damper •
ż* Inspect throttle shaft spring (replace throttle body
if necessary) •
* Inspect steering cable/shift cable •
Inspect hull drain screws (replace if necessary.) •
Inspect battery terminals & charging condition •
*: These items must be performed with the proper tools. See your authorized Kawasaki JET SKI dealer
for service, unless you have the proper equipment and mechanical proficiency (refer to the Service
Manual).
ż: Emission Related
Note1 : or every year whichever comes first
 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS 119

Supercharger Control Cable

This watercraft is equipped with the supercharger There must be free play in the throttle mechanism.
and its intercooler, which play an essential role for Measure the distance the throttle lever moves before
high engine performance. the engine begins to pick up speed. Free play should
Have your authorized dealer service them in ac- be about 2 mm (0.08 in.).
cordance with the Maintenance Chart and Prepara-
tion for Storage.
j

A. about 2 mm (0.08 in.)

A. Engine Throttle Cable Adjustment

B. Supercharger Loosen and turn the locknuts at the end of the
C. Intercooler throttle cable until the suitable free play is obtained.
Tighten the locknuts securely.
 120 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS

A. Throttle Cable
B. Locknuts
• Check that the steering nozzle is at the same dis-
tance from each side of the pump cavity.
C. Throttle Assembly

Steering Cable Adjustment

• Center the handlebars in a straight ahead steering
position.

A. Equal

• If it is not, adjust the steering cable.

 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS 121

• Loosen the locknut on the end of the steering ca-

ble located to the right of the steering nozzle.

A. Joint
B. Locknut
A. Steering Nozzle
B. Steering Cable
• Reattach
again.
the joint and check cable adjustment

C. Locknut
D. Joint
• Apply non-permanent locking agent to the bolt.
And tighten the joint bolt and the locknut securely.
E. Bolt
Bolt Tightening Torque:
• Remove the bolt and disconnect the cable joint
from the steering nozzle.
9.8 N·m (1.0 kgf·m, 87 in·lb)

• Center the handlebars in a straight ahead steering

position.
• As an additional check, turn the handlebar all the
way to the left and right, and measure the distance
• Turn the joint on the cable to adjust the steering. between the nozzle and the edge of the pump cav-
ity. It should be equal at both extremes.
 122 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS
Shift Cable Adjustment
• Put the shift lever in the “F (Forward)" position.

A. Equal

Steering Cable Inspection A. Shift Lever

Steering cable inspection is best performed by B. "F" position
your authorized Kawasaki JET SKI dealer. If the
steering feels rough or “catchy," have your dealer
inspect the steering cable.
• The lower edge of the bucket should be held
above the top of the steering nozzle with slight
play so it doesn’t interfere with the water flow from
NOTE the jet pump.
żThe steering cable is sealed at each end and does
not require lubrication.
 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS 123

A. Reverse Bucket A. Shift Lever

B. Steering Nozzle B. "R" position

• Put the shift lever in the “R (Reverse)" position. • The lower stopper on the bucket should
against the rear edge of the pump cover.
rest
 124 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS

A. Stopper A. Locknut
B. Pump Cover End B. Ball Joint
C. Sleeve
• IfPuteither position is incorrect, adjust the shift cable.
• Loosen the locknut
the shift lever in Reverse. • Slide back the outer sleeve and take the ball joint
• on the end of the shift link. off the ball.
• Turn the ball joint and reattach it so the lower edge
of the bucket is held above the top of the nozzle
allowing the bucket to have 2 ∼ 3 mm (0.08 ∼ 0.12
in.) of play when the shift lever is put in the “F"
position.
NOTE
żThe cable end must remain screwed into the rod
more than 5 mm after the above adjustment.
 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS 125

Fuel System

Throttle Adjustments:
Idle Speed
Idle speed adjustment is best performed by your
authorized Kawasaki JET SKI dealer. If the idle
speed is unstable have your dealer inspect the throt- j
tle body.
Idle Speed
1 300 ±100 rpm - in water
1 300 ±100 rpm - out of water
A. Hole
B. Ball High Altitude Use
High altitude adjustment is not required as the
• Check the adjustment again. E.C.U. (electronic engine control unit) controls the
• When adjustment is correct, tighten the locknut. air/fuel mixture automatically.
Shift Cable Inspection Fuel Vent Check Valve:
Shift cable inspection is best performed by your
The fuel tank is equipped with a vent hose. A small
authorized Kawasaki JET SKI dealer. If the shift
plastic check valve mounted in the vent hose allows
lever feels rough or “catchy," have your dealer in-
air to enter the tank, but minimizes fuel spillage when
spect the shift cable.
the craft is tipped over. Have the check valve in-
NOTE spected in accordance with the Periodic Mainte-
żThe shift cable is sealed at each end and does not nance Chart by your authorized Kawasaki JET SKI
watercraft dealer.
require lubrication.
 126 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS

Engine Oil System

In order for the engine to function properly, main-
tain the engine oil at the proper level, and change
the oil and replace the oil filter in accordance with
the Periodic Maintenance Chart. Not only do dirt and
metal particles collect in the oil, but the oil itself loses
its lubricative quality if used too long.
j
Oil and/or Oil Filter Changes
In accordance with the Maintenance Chart,
A. Check Valve change the engine oil and oil filter with the following
B. Flow Direction procedure.

Fuel Pump Screen:

• Level the watercraft port to starboard as well as
fore to aft.
The watercraft is equipped with fuel pump screens • In a well-ventilated area, start the engine while
flushing the cooling system.
on the fuel pump to prevent dirt or other foreign ma-
terial from entering the fuel line. CAUTION
Have your Kawasaki JET SKI watercraft dealer
clean the fuel pump screen in accordance with the The engine must be running before the water
Periodic Maintenance Chart. is turned on and the water must be turned off
before the engine is stopped.
Do not run the engine without cooling water
flow for more than 15 seconds.

• Warm up the engine and stop it.

• Remove the oil filler cap and the dipstick.
 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS 127

• Put a rag or cloth under the oil filter to receive the

remaining oil.
• Remove the oil filter.

A. Oil Filler Cap

B. Dipstick

CAUTION A. Oil Filter Cartridge

B. Dipstick
Be careful not to allow any dirt or foreign ma-
terials to enter the engine. • Apply a thin film of oil to the gasket and tighten the
cartridge to the specified toque.
• Drain the oil thoroughly from the dipstick tube us-
ing a commercially-available vacuum pump.
Cartridge Tightening Torque:
16 ∼ 20 N·m (1.6 ∼ 2.0 kgf·m, 12 ∼ 15 ft·lb)
WARNING
Do not discard the engine oil as the engine
• Fill the engine with the oil specified in the table up
to the “H" (High) line on the dipstick. (Use a cold
oil is toxic substance and will pollute the en- level mark.)
vironment.
Contact your local authority for approved
disposal methods.
 128 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS

• Although
Check the oil level.
10W-40 engine oil is the recommended
oil for most conditions, the oil viscosity may need
to be changed to accommodate atmospheric condi-
tions in your riding area.

A. Dipstick
B. "H" (High) Line when cold
C. "H" (High) Line when hot
D. "L" (Low) Line when cold
E. "L" (Low) Line when hot

Engine Oil • Install the oil filler cap and dipstick securely.
Grade: API SF or SG • Check for oil leaks.
API SH, SJ or SL with JASO MA NOTE
Viscosity: SAE 10W-40 żThis procedure requires mechanical skills and
Capacity 4.0 L (4.2 US qt) tools. If you see it beyond your skill, ask your
5.0 L (5.3 US qt) Kawasaki dealer for the services.
[when engine is completely dry]

• Run the engine for several minutes while flushing

the cooling system.
 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS 129

After the oil is filled, measure the oil level carefully NOTE
by taking the following procedure. żSince the trim and list of the watercraft will signifi-
cantly affect the oil level, be sure that the operator
and/or cargo are not aboard the watercraft when
measuring the oil level. Also fill up the fuel tank if
it is not full.
żThis measuring procedure with the watercraft
afloat should be followed when the oil level is
found low and to be added. See OPERATING j
INSTRUCTIONS chapter.
 130 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS

Valve Clearance Spark Plug

Valve and valve seats wear decreasing valve The standard spark plug is NGK PMR9B set to a
clearances, and upsetting valve timing. 0.6 ∼ 0.7 mm (0.024 ∼ 0.028 in.) gap. Since the
engine is water-cooled and is generally operated at a
CAUTION constant throttle opening, cylinder head temperature
If valve clearance is left unadjusted, wear will is relatively stable. For this reason, if the engine
eventually cause the valves to remain par- is in good condition and properly tuned, it should
j not be necessary to use a spark plug of a different
tially open, which lowers performance, burns
the valves and valve seats, and may cause heat range. Since a spark plug of the wrong heat
serious engine damage. range can cause extensive engine damage, only the
standard spark plug is recommended.
Valve clearance for each valve should be checked
and adjusted in accordance with the Periodic Main-
tenance Chart.
Inspection and adjustment should be done by an
authorized Kawasaki dealer.
INTAKE 0.15 ∼ 0.24 mm (0.0059 ∼ 0.0094 in.)
EXHAUST 0.32 ∼ 0.41 mm (0.0126 ∼ 0.0161 in.)
 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS 131

Spark Plug Inspection and Replacement CAUTION

• Remove the spark plugs and inspect the ceramic
insulators. The appearance of the insulators re-
Do not adjust the plug gap. If the plug gap
is out of the specification, replace the spark
flects the efficiency of the combustion process.
plug.
When the engine is operating properly, the plug
insulators should be clean and show a light brown
color. If the insulators look glazed or very white, if NOTE
the electrodes appear overheated, or if there are żIf the plug is oily or has carbon built up. clean it
gray metallic deposits on the plugs, combustion by using a high-flash point solvent and non-wire
chamber temperatures are too high. Refer to the j
brush, or spark plug cleaner (sandblaster). Clean
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE. off any abrasive particles carefully if using a sand-
blaster.
CAUTION
As excessive operating temperature can CAUTION
cause serious engine damage, the cause
should be located and corrected immedi- Do not use a wire brush when cleaning the
ately. spark plug to prevent the electrode damage.

• Acates
dry, sooty black deposit on the insulators indi-
an overly rich fuel/air mixture. Check for cor-
Tightening Torque:
11 ∼ 15 N·m (1.1 ∼ 1.5 kgf·m, 8.1∼ 11.1 ft·lb)
rect throttle control cable adjustment. Refer to the
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE.
Spark Plug Fitting
• Inspect the condition of the spark plug. If the spark
plug electrodes are rounded, damaged, or the in- • Insert the plugs into the plug holes.
sulator is cracked, replace the plug. • Install
Tighten the plugs with the specific torque.
• Measure the spark plug gap. Use a wire-type • curely. the spark plug cap onto the spark plug se-
thickness gauge to prevent possible damage to
the platinum alloy electrode. NOTE
żBe sure to install the plug caps so that the spark
plug wires are positioned at a right angle to the
engine center line.
 132 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS

Battery
The battery is located in the front storage compart-
ment.
•Remove the battery recess cover in the front stor-
age compartment.

A. Spark Plug Caps

• Pull the caps lightly to make sure of their good

fitting.

A. Front Storage Compartment

B. Drain Plug
C. Battery Recess Cover

NOTE
żThe battery recess cover uses quick rivets.
The quick rivets can be removed by pushing the
central pins into the quick rivets, and when in-
stalling them, pull the central pins fully up first, and
then push them after inserting the rivets.
 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS 133

Quick Rivet Removal Quick Rivet Installation

A. Quick Rivet A. Quick Rivet

B. Central Pin B. Central Pin
C. Push in C. Pull up fully.
D. Push in
 134 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS
Battery Removal terminal posts or cables. Replace battery and/or
cables immediately if any damage is found.
Battery Installation
• Install the battery in the reverse order of removal.
Secure the black (ground) cable and black sub
cable to the negative terminal.
• After connecting the battery, coat the terminals
with waterproof grease.
j
WARNING
Loose battery cables can create sparks
which can cause a fire or explosion resulting
in injury or death. Make sure the battery
terminal screws are tightened securely and
the covers are installed over the terminals.
A. Positive Cable (Red)
B. Negative Cable (Black)
C. Straps

• Disconnect the negative (black) cable and black

sub cable from the battery first.
• Disconnect the positive (red) cable.
• the battery. tow rubber hold-down straps securing
Release the

• Lift the battery out of the hull.

• Clean the battery top and terminals using a solu-
tion of baking soda and water. Scrape off any ob-
stinate deposits with a wire brush and then rinse
the battery with fresh water. Dry it thoroughly and
coat the terminals with waterproof grease.
• Perform a visual inspection. Inspect for defective
or cracked case and cover, and loose or damaged Tighten the Terminal Screws Securely.
 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS 135

your watercraft, you must properly maintain the bat-

tery’s charge. When used regularly, the charging
system in your watercraft helps keep the battery fully
charged. If your watercraft is only used occasionally
or for short periods of time, the battery is more likely
to discharge.
Due to their internal composition, batteries contin-
ually self discharge. The discharge rate depends
on the type of battery and ambient temperature. As
temperatures rise, so does the discharge rate. Ev- j
ery 15°C (27°F) doubles the rate.
Electrical accessories, such as digital clocks and
computer memory, also draw current from the bat-
tery even when the key is switched off. Combine
Install the Rubber Covers. such “key-off" draws with hot temperatures, and a
battery can go from fully charged to completely dis-
CAUTION charged in a matter of days.

Do not reverse the battery connections, or Self-discharge

damage to the regulator/rectifier unit will re- Approx. Number of Days from
sult. 100% Charged to 100% Discharged
Temperature
Lead-Antimony Lead-Calcium
Battery Characteristics Battery Battery
The battery installed in this watercraft is a sealed
40°C (104°F) 100 Days 300 Days
type, and the sealing strip should not be removed
at any time after the specified electrolyte has been 25°C (77°F) 200 Days 600 Days
installed in the battery for initial service. It is not 0°C (32°F) 550 Days 950 Days
necessary to check the battery electrolyte level or
add distilled water.
However, in order to maximize battery life and en-
sure that it will provide the power needed to start
 136 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS

Current Drain (Y50-N18L-A) charge. Battery failure due to salvation is not war-
rantable.
Days from 100% Days from 100%
Discharging
Charged to 50% Charged to 100% Battery Maintenance
Ampere
Discharged Discharged It is the owner’s responsibility to keep the battery
7 mA 60 Days 119 Days fully charged. Failure to do so can lead to battery
failure and leave you stranded.
10 mA 42 Days 83 Days If you are riding your watercraft infrequently, in-
15 mA 28 Days 56 Days spect the battery voltage weekly using a voltmeter.
j If it drops below 12.6 volts, the battery should be
20 mA 21 Days 42 Days charged using an appropriate charger (check with
30 mA 14 Days 28 Days our Kawasaki dealer or visit buy Kawasaki. com) at
a rate of 1/10th of the battery capacity.
In extremely cold weather the fluid in an inade- If you will not be using your watercraft for longer
quately charged battery can easily freeze, which than two weeks, the battery should be charged using
can crack the case and buckle the plates. A fully an appropriate charger. Do not use an automotive
charged battery can withstand sub-freezing temper- -type quick charger that may overcharge the battery
atures with no damage. and damage it.

WARNING
Kawasaki-recommended chargers are:
Battery posts, terminals and related acces-
• Opti Mate ǿǿǿ
sories contain lead and lead compounds.
• Yuasa 1.5 Amp Automatic charger
Wash hands after handing.
• Battery Mate 150–9
If the above chargers are not available, use equiv-
Battery Sulfation alent one.
A common cause of battery failure is sulfation. For more details, ask your Kawasaki dealer.
Sulfation occurs when the battery is left in a dis- Battery Charging
charged condition for an extended time. Sulfate is a
normal by product of the chemical reactions within a
• Remove the battery from the watercraft (See Bat-
tery Removal).
battery. But when continuous discharge allows the
sulfate to crystallize in the cells, the battery plates
• Set the battery charge timer to the position indi-
cated by the tester.
become permanently damaged and will not hold a
 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS 137

• Following the charging and checking steps of the

battery charger, charge the battery. Lubrication
CAUTION As in all marine craft, adequate lubrication and cor-
Never remove the sealed cap, or the battery rosion protection is an absolute necessity to provide
can be damaged. long, reliable service. Refer to the Periodic Mainte-
Do not install a conventional battery in this nance Chart and Pre-ride Checklist in the OPER-
watercraft, or the electrical system will not ATING INSTRUCTIONS chapter for the frequency
work properly. of the following items:
j
• Lubricate the following with a penetrating rust in-
hibitor, such as WD40 or BEL-RAY 6 in 1:
NOTE
żIf you charge the sealed type battery, never fail to Lubricate the Throttle Control Cable with a
observe the instructions shown in the label on the Pressure Cable Lubber
battery.
 138 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS
Steering Nozzle/Reverse Bucket Pivots Shift Link Ball Joint

A. Steering Nozzle Pivot A. Shift Link Ball Joint

B. Reverse Bucket Pivot

• Lubricate the following with a high quality water-

proof marine grease.
 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS 139

Steering Link Ball Joint Throttle Cable Fitting at Throttle Case

A. Steering Ball Joint at Steering Shaft A. Apply grease.

• Ask your authorized dealer for this lubrication. CAUTION

Disassemble and lubricate the handlebar
pivot. This should be performed by your
Kawasaki JET SKI dealer.
 140 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS

Cooling System Flushing

• Remove the cap and connect a garden hose with
a screw-in fitting on its end.

To prevent sand or salt deposits from accumulat-

• Start the engine and allow it to idle before turning
on the water.
ing in the cooling system, it must be flushed occa-
sionally. Flush the system according to the Periodic CAUTION
Maintenance Chart, after each use in salt water, or The engine must be running before the water
whenever there is reduced water flow from the by- is turned on, or water may flow back through
pass outlet on the right side of the hull. the exhaust pipe into the engine, resulting in
j This procedure is also used to provide auxiliary the possibility of severe internal damage.
cooling when needed (for example during engine oil
change).
• An inlet for auxiliary water supply is provided on • Immediately turn on the water and adjust the flow
so that a little trickle of water comes out of the
the fitting for the cooling hose on the brim of the bypass outlet in the right side of the hull.
front storage case.

A. Bypass Outlet
A. Inlet Fitting
B. Cap
C. Front Storage Compartment
• Let the engine idle for several minutes with the
water running.
 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS 141

• Rev
Turn off the water. Leave the engine idling.
• the exhaust
the engine few times to clear the water out of
system.
Bilge System Flushing
To prevent clogging, the bilge system should be
CAUTION flushed out according to the Periodic Maintenance
Do not run the engine without cooling water Chart, or whenever you suspect it is blocked.
flow for more than 15 seconds. Overheating • Remove the handrail plate for access.
will cause severe engine and exhaust system
damage. j
• Switch off the engine, remove the garden hose,
reinstall the cap securely.

A. Handrail Plate
B. Breather Fittings

• Disconnect all bilge hoses at each plastic breather

fitting. They are mounted on the rear upper corner
in the engine compartment.
 142 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS
engine compartment will be filled with water when
the engine stops or idles. It may be necessary to
remove the fitting.

A. Bilge Hoses

• Connect the bilge filter hose (from the hull bottom)

to the garden hose, turn the water on, and flush it
out for about a minute. During this procedure, wa- A. Breather Hole
ter will flow into the engine compartment. Do not
allow a large amount of water to accumulate in the • Reconnect the bilge hoses.
engine compartment. Remove the drain screws in NOTE
the stern to drain the engine compartment. żIf your watercraft is to be stored, blow air through
• Connect the other hose to the garden hose, turn
the water on, and flush it out for several minutes.
both hoses at each breather fitting before they are
reconnected (see the Preparation for Storage sec-
• Repeat the above two steps for the other bilge
hoses.
tion in the STORAGE chapter).

• Before reconnecting the hoses to each plastic

breather fitting, make sure the small breather hole
in the fitting is clear. If the hole is clogged, the
 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS 143

Fuses
A 20 A main fuse is arranged in the fuse case
located in the front storage compartment. If a fuse
fails during operation, inspect the electrical system
to determine the cause, and then replace it with a
new fuse of proper amperage.
j

A. Fuse Case
B. Fuse

CAUTION
Do not use any substitute for the standard
fuse.
Replace the blown fuse with a new one of the
correct capacity, as specified on the electric
A. Fuse Case case.
B. ECU
 144 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS

j
 TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE 145

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
If this procedure does not isolate your problem, see your JET SKI dealer or refer to the Service Manual.

j
 146 TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

j
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE 147

j
148 OWNER SATISFACTION

OWNER SATISFACTION
Your satisfaction is important to your authorized Kawasaki dealer and to Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. If you
have a problem concerning warranty or service, please take the following action:
Contact the owner and/or service manager of your authorized Kawasaki dealer. Fully explain your problem and
ask for assistance in resolving the situation. The OWNER of the dealership is an independent business person
and is concerned with your satisfaction and your future business. For this reason the owner is in the best
position to assist you. Also, all warranty and service matters are handled and resolved through the authorized
Kawasaki dealer network.

If you are unsatisfied after working with your Kawasaki dealer and feel you still require further assistance,
WRITE to the address below. Please be certain to provide the model, product identification number, mileage
or hours of use, accessories, dates that events occurred and what action has been taken by both you and your
dealer. Include the name and address of the dealership. To assist us in resolving your inquiry, please include
copies of related receipts and any other pertinent information including the names of the dealership personnel
with whom you have been working in the resolution of your problem.
Upon receipt of your WRITTEN correspondence we will contact the dealership and work with them in resolving
your problem.
In order to provide a permanent record, all warranty and service resolutions take place only through WRITTEN
correspondence.

Please send your correspondence to:.

CONSUMER RELATIONS
KAWASAKI MOTORS CORP., U.S.A.
P.O. Box 25252
SANTA ANA, CA. 92799-5252
(949) 460–5688
 REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS 149

REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS

(For Products Sold in the Continental United States of America Only)
If you believe that your watercraft has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you
should immediately inform the U.S. Coast Guard (U.S.C.G.) in addition to notifying Kawasaki Motors Corpora-
tion, U.S.A.
If the U.S.C.G receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect
exists in a group of watercrafts, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, the U.S.C.G. cannot
become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or Kawasaki Motors Corporation, U.S.A.

Please send your correspondence to:

Office of Boating Safety Product Assurance Division-OPB-3

United States Coast Guard
2100 Second Street SW
Washington, DC 20593-0001
150 ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
To ensure a clean environment, observe the following:
• Properly dispose of your own trash (it is against the law to litter).
• Do not soil the beaches, coasts, and waters with fuel or oil.
• Take care to preserve natural habitats and living things.
• in the future.
Properly discard used batteries, engine oil, or other JET SKI watercraft components that you might dispose of
Consult your authorized Kawasaki dealer or local environmental waste agency for their proper
disposal procedure.
 MAINTENANCE RECORD 151

MAINTENANCE RECORD
Owner Name...................................................................................................................................

Address ..........................................................................................................................................

Phone Number ...............................................................................................................................

Hull Number ...................................................................................................................................

Engine Number ..............................................................................................................................

Selling Dealer Name ......................................................................................................................

Address ..........................................................................................................................................

Phone Number ...............................................................................................................................

Warranty Start Date .......................................................................................................................

Note: Keep this information and a spare key in a secure location.

Date Engine Hours Maintenance Performed Dealer Name Dealer Address
152 MAINTENANCE RECORD

Date Engine Hours Maintenance Performed Dealer Name Dealer Address

 MAINTENANCE RECORD 153

Date Engine Hours Maintenance Performed Dealer Name Dealer Address

154 MAINTENANCE RECORD

Date Engine Hours Maintenance Performed Dealer Name Dealer Address

 MAINTENANCE RECORD 155

Date Engine Hours Maintenance Performed Dealer Name Dealer Address