The concept is bottom-level basic – maintenance is mandatory, not recommended.

This especially holds true for changing the oil on your PWC.

Yamaha recommends changing oil every 50 hours, saying that changing your engine oil regularly helps preserve engine health. Old oil contains contaminants that can harm your engine, while fresh oil ensures smooth operation. And Yamaha takes smooth operation seriously.

“At Yamaha, there is no single department in charge of oil,” said Mike Ricciardi, Yamaha WaterCraft Product Development Manager. “Rather, oil development is carried out by engineers in charge of developing and building our engines. We have taken extraordinary steps in the development of Yamalube lubricants. We have our own oil certification committee. This group brings together both our own chemical engineers and the very same team who designs our engines having access to proprietary specifications about our engines. This group has an unmatched pool of knowledge from which to draw in creating oil formulas that far exceed all other competitive brands.”

Visually, oil for personal watercraft and boats and oil for cars doesn’t look very different, but there are significant differences in how they are used, Ricciardi stresses.

As marine engines are for use on the water, rust prevention is one obvious concern, but the biggest is the load these engines are subjected to being that its common practice to run marine engines at full throttle for hours on end.

“Our Yamalube oil for Yamaha WaveRunner and Boat engines is blended specifically to deliver enhanced protection and durability as well as peace of mind on the water,” said Ricciardi. “As our boats and PWC evolve, Yamalube is the only line of care products that can keep up.”

Specifically crafted for Yamaha boats and personal watercraft, Yamalube undergoes rigorous testing to guarantee a smoother, more confident ride every time you hit the water. Specially formulated to combat rust and corrosion, safeguarding your engine from marine elements, Yamalube offers top-tier protection, engineered to excel under extreme conditions and extends engine life by minimizing wear.

Yamalube and oil change kits are available directly from Yamaha, and are available at many of WCJ’s partnering retailers.

Following are some oil change tips and tutorials straight from Yamaha:

Checking your oil level.
The oil level check procedure for your Yamaha four-stroke WaveRunner is a bit different than the procedure for your car. It’s easy to get an accurate reading if you follow the procedure outlined in your owner’s manual. A few things to keep in mind:
Always check your engine oil level with the engine up to full operating temperature.
It is OK if the oil level is anywhere within the hash marks of the oil level dipstick.
If you do need to top off your engine oil, be sure to use Yamalube® 4W 10W-40 Oil

What oil should I use?
The engine in your Yamaha WaveRunner is vastly different from your automotive engine; so avoid regular automotive engine oils. Use a motor oil specifically formulated for the rigors of the marine environment, like Yamalube 4W for four-stroke WaveRunners, and Yamalube 2W for two-stroke WaveRunners.

Let’s look at a few reasons why:
Engine load. The typical loads placed on your WaveRunner are much heavier than on your automobile, having to overcome a much greater amount of drag to create performance. This means your WaveRunner is working much harder than your automobile’s engine. Yamalube 4W and 2W marine engine oils contain specific anti-wear additives to account for this.

Engine speed. Your WaveRunner operates at a much higher RPM than your automobile’s engine. It must rev higher to create higher speeds, rather than just changing gears like your car. That means your WaveRunner may run all day long at 4500-6000 RPM, rather than the 2500 RPM your car reaches at highway speeds. That’s tough on your oil and can literally shear (or split) the molecules in ordinary automotive oil, reducing lubricity. Yamalube 4W and 2W have special shear-stable polymers to combat this and provide superior lubrication at all times.

Operating temperature. WaveRunners are cooled using raw water, which is often cool to very cold. On the other hand, saltwater will begin to crystalize if its temperature is raised above 170°, potentially causing blockage in the cooling passages and leading to engine overheat and possible damage. Because of these two factors, your WaveRunner operates full-time at a temperature much lower than your automobile and requires very different qualities in its lubricating oil. Yamalube marine oils have detergents, dispersants and viscosity index improvers to meet these marine-specific challenges head-on.

Operating Environment. Your WaveRunner is constantly near water, sucking in very humid air directly off the water’s surface in order to operate. This humid air also gets inside combustion chambers through open valves when the engine is not running. And in a saltwater environment, that air is even more corrosive. It’s one of the harshest environments imaginable for an engine. Yamalube 4W and 2W are purposely formulated with special anti-corrosion agents to help combat and prevent the corrosive effects of this environment.

Yamalube® WaveRunner engine oils provide specific protection other oils don’t, using a proprietary blend of marine-specific anti-wear additives, shear-stable polymers, corrosion inhibitors, detergents, dispersants and viscosity index improvers. In short, they’re far superior to automotive engine oils in their strength of protection, durability and corrosion resistance.

Aren’t all oil filters pretty much the same?
Outwardly, perhaps. But it’s what’s on the inside that counts most. Yamaha oil filters are manufactured specifically to protect Yamaha engines, using only the finest components and construction methods available. This includes a special filter media and metal filter media bases (instead of cardboard), to help them achieve a level of durability and filtration far superior than most “off-the-shelf” oil filters. From the quality of the materials used to their high-quality construction, they simply outperform and out-protect most aftermarket alternatives.
What Yamalube oils are right for my WaveRunner?

Yamalube 4W: Reformulated to better protect your investment from the harsh effects of cold starts, hours of trolling and high-load, high-speed operation, its special anti-corrosive additives are particularly suited for the harsh marine environment.

Yamalube 2W: This Yamaha-formulated oil provides outstanding protection for two-stroke, water-cooled engines, with its special blend of additives that help combat ring stick, corrosion, varnish and wear. It’s a standard by which other two-stroke oils are judged.

Can I change my own oil?
Absolutely, but you don’t have to. If you’d rather leave it to your Yamaha WaveRunner dealer, they will be happy to take care of it for you in their specially trained and properly equipped service department. That also means you won’t have to dispose of the used oil yourself. But if you prefer to do it yourself, your Yamaha dealer can set you up with a Genuine Yamalube Oil Change Kit, specific to your Yamaha WaveRunner. It includes the right type and amount of Yamalube oil, and a Genuine Yamaha oil filter. 

While there’s always plenty of excitement to be had chasing adrenaline across the water on a PWC, sometimes the best part of a day out on the lake is the time spent relaxing with friends and family. Traditional docks and lakeside beaches can be great, but for those without easy access to them, carving out your own space at a public area can be a challenge. That’s where inflatable water mats come in, offering the perfect place to entertain and relax without ever being more than a few inches from the water.

Boating Magazine recently highlighted some of the top models on the market, showing just how versatile these devices have become. Some, like Bote’s 100-square-foot inflatable dock, are designed to offer traction and stability, mimicking traditional deck conditions. Others, like the Mission Outdoor Reef 85 Inflatable Water Mat, are more playful and ideal for kids. There are even inflatable pools and “water hammocks” that provide an enclosed, laid-back experience, allowing you to enjoy the water without needing to swim the whole time.

One key consideration, especially for those anchoring these mats off a PWC, is their weight. Models vary widely in this regard. Some are as light as 23 pounds, making them easy to haul even on smaller watercraft, while larger options like the 72-pound Bote dock might be too much for a smaller engine to handle. One route to consider is purchasing an inflatable dock made specifically for PWC use, such as the Paradise Pad Jet Ski Dock or T Pad Dock, both from LightAsAir Boats.

For anyone looking to add a fun new accessory to their water adventures, check out Boating Magazine’s guide for a breakdown of which models are worth the investment!

Have you ever wanted to be able to capture a thrilling moment on your personal watercraft without stopping and missing a beat? Whether you’re tearing across the water on your Sea-Doo or cruising with friends, Active JetSport’s innovative GoPro mount for the 2021+ Sea-Doo RXP-X and GTR-X 300 lets you document your adventures with ease. This versatile mount not only keeps your camera secure but also offers multiple attachment options to ensure you’ll be able to not only capture your best moments, but attach a wide variety of tech to your JetSki with no hassle at all.

Constructed from high-quality aluminum and finished with a hard black anodized coating, this mount is built for durability, designed to withstand the toughest conditions on the water. Installation is simple, taking just one minute with the included wrench, so you can spend more time riding and less time fussing over gear. With three accessory slots, the Active JetSport mount supports a wide range of gadgets that use the standard ¼-20 UNC threads—whether it’s your GoPro, GPS, or gauges, it’s all easily within reach.

Another thing that really sets this mount apart are the two 360-degree rotating mounts, meaning you’re no longer stuck with a single camera angle. Want to capture your friend shredding on your left, then pivot to a scenic shot on your right? No problem—just rotate the camera without having to stop your ride.

This mount is compatible with several Sea-Doo models, including the latest 2024 RXP-X 325 and GTR-X 300, as well as models from 2021-2023. It’s a versatile upgrade that ensures you won’t miss a single second of your watercraft adventures. Whether you’re filming for fun or tracking performance, this mount is the ultimate companion for your Sea-Doo.

Be sure to check the Sea-Doo RXP-X GTR-X 300/325 GoPro Mount out now on ActiveJetSport’s website!

Cycle Springs Powersports’ huge selection of PWCs from all of the top lines, amazing sale prices,and generous trade-in deals are the up-front benefits that draw the majority of customers through the door, or to their website.

But for many customers, it’s the benefits on the back end of the deal that make them repeat customers, with the upgrades and protections that Cycle Springs offers for each purchase ensuring that customers not only leave the store happy, but stay happy.

Cycle Springs offers a family of add-ons, dubbed their “salt series” that offer protections from the harshness of the elements, improve comfort, and increase the overall riding experience on your new purchase.

Protection upgrades
External Engine Protection – Protect the outside of your watercraft engine with our industry exclusive engine protection system! Mid-pressure rail system with customized spray heads is used to coat, rinse lubricate and protect all engine bay components from condensation, humidity and saltwater exposure. Easy access port and refillable cartridge to save money, time and to increase the longevity of your vessel.

Internal Engine Protection – Professionally installed fogging port for protection of the engine’s cylinder wall, valves, and pistons against internal corrosion. Fogging for storage and saltwater usage is recommended by all manufacturer bulletins. The installed port provides easy access to ensure continued warranty engine coverage.

Hull Protection – Custom designed and manufactured pop up stainless steel cleats are installed allowing secure docking to protect your watercraft. Specially designed installation process to ensure proper fit and strength for long-lasting usage.

Comfort upgrades
Personal Misting System – Remote controlled personal misting system refreshes with a touch of a button. Flush mounted mid pressure spray nozzles are strategically positioned to create a cool and relaxing fine mist.

PWC Underseat Storage – Hand laid fiberglass under seat compartment for additional storage and other heavy items for increased storage capacity for your PWC. (Currently only available on VX models).

Maintenance Upgrade
Fuel Injection Treatment – With the replacement of carburetors with electronic injection systems, it is vital to service, clean, and maintain your fuel injection system. To optimize performance, fuel economy and reliability, Cycle Springs Powersports offers a state of the art computerized fuel injection flow and cleaning process. For just a small charge you can make sure your vehicle/vessel is running optimally when you need it and eliminate hard starting, surging, poor fuel economy and excessive wear on internal components.

In addition, with Cycle Springs Powersports Advantage membership, benefits include
Reimbursement – If your vehicle is stolen and not recovered, or deemed a total loss from theft within the first 12 months from purchase, you could qualify for up to $1,000 reimbursement. This can be applied to your next vehicle purchase, equal or greater in value than the stolen unit. Required documentation includes a police report of the theft, primary insurance receipts, and an insurance settlement letter within 60 days of the event.

Key Repair/Replacement – If you lose, damage, or destroy your key or key fob, we’ll reimburse up to $200 for its repair or replacement at Cycle Springs locations. This covers the key insert, metal key, key/remote housing, Bluetooth unit, and any programming costs. This benefit is available once every 12 months.

Parts Discount – Enjoy a 15% discount on any part or accessory at Cycle Springs, with unlimited use for the first 12 months. Maximum total discount is $5,000.

Inspection – Eligible for a free 27-point multi-point inspection, ideal for those considering an extended manufacturer warranty. Available 10-12 months from the sale date.

VIP Events – As a VIP customer of Cycle Springs you will receive complimentary invitations to special events before the public. These advanced communications will be used for, but not limited to, manufacturer-hosted parties, new model showings, golf, and other charity luncheons and events.

Be sure to check out all these added reasons to do all your powersports shopping at Cycle Springs by visiting their website, or dropping by the showroom at 29703 US Hwy 19 N. in Clearwater, Florida.

Long long ago, in a land far far away … well, OK, July 21, 2020 wasn’t THAT Long ago, but the places The Watercraft Journal featured on that day were – at least for many of us – far far away. 

Because July 2020 was when BRP launched their brand new Uncharted Society. 

Created specifically for the adventurous at heart – those who dream of exploring exotic destinations (aboard a Sea-Doo, of course), those who daydream of carving through Rocky Mountain snowy terrain (on a brand new Ski-Doo snowmobile) and those who yearned for a meandering trip through a a desolate western landscape (you guessed it – on a Can-Am) – Uncharted Society was the solution for the adventurer with, perhaps, dreams bigger than their pocketbook. 

Kicked off as a test project, the idea behind Uncharted Society was to eliminate a hefty portion of the cost barrier to embarking on those dreamed-of adventures. 

At the July 2020 launch, the program offered more than 40 expertly curated experiences using powersports vehicles in the United States. From the Grand Canyon, Zion National Park, the Gulf of Mexico, the Rockies, Joshua Tree, and more, BRP said the adventures were created to “encourage more outdoor enthusiasts to experience the thrill of powersports and for new audiences to live awesome adventures.  This will in turn increase awareness of and access to BRP vehicles, and introduce them to a new generation that might not have had traditionally been exposed to the thrill of powersports. For each of our adventures, we are collaborating with the best certified local outfitters to ensure we provide the best, most memorable experience possible. Wilderness Collective offers a wide variety of adventures on various terrain types using different BRP product lines. “Our collaboration with Uncharted Society and BRP goes so much further than offering the best machines to our customers; we align on a passion for adventure, a deep understanding of our customers and a bold vision for the future of powersports adventures.” Steve Dubbeldam, CEO of the Wilderness Collective.”

“Over the past few months, we have been working with some of the best outfitters out there to reimagine powersports adventures and what they can offer to guests. Uncharted Society is our first step in making experiencing our products more accessible by bringing to the market a curated premium collection of adventures for all,” Simon Cazelais, Director, Content Strategy & BRP-X Innovation Lab, said at the launch. 

So that was a little more than 4 years ago, and WCJ was curious to see if the program made it past its fledgling stage…

After visiting the Uncharted Society website, all we can say is, our Editor is currently packing her bags! (OK, (I WISH I was packing my bags!) 

Unlike many creative and innovative ideas that flounder and die after the first blush wears off, Uncharted Society seems to be cruising right along at top speed – and their website is well designed to grab the attention of the adventurer-at-heart. 

Although we have followed along on a few adventures with individuals, friends, couples and families that were arranged through the Uncharted Society in the past four years, WCJ has not yet given a tour around this well-laid out website, nor detailed exactly what BRP crafted to cater to its adventure-seeking audience. 

From the original 30 adventure packages, Uncharted Society has now created more than 300 unique opportunities to fit just about any outdoor adventure aspiration – and while there are a plethora of stateside aventures just waiting for your next 3-day weekend or quick jaunt – for those with eyes set beyond America’s borders, there are international opportunities galore, including chilly Sea-Doo cruises in Alaska and warmer ones in Spain, ATVs in Iceland, a 5 day, 6 night guided Ski-Doo adventure in New Brunswick, Canada, Can-Am Maverick trips in the sand dunes of Dubai, and Ski-Doos in Chile. 

With the arrangement of the website, you can find your perfect adventure a number of ways; by destination, by vehicle, by ride type (rental or guided), and by duration (Half day or less, Full-day, Multi-day, Multi-hour) – and there does seem to be a little something for everyone. 

And if you’re not sure about jumping into the adventure – take a browse through the Uncharted Society Blog, and you may find just the right fit.

So, whether you have a specific adventure or expedition you’ve been dreaming about, or are just looking for inspiration, Uncharted Society is definitely a place to start planning when you’re ready to turn dreams into reality.

Sometimes, the most game-changing pieces of gear are the least glamorous: from the simple headlamp that makes night fishing a thousand times easier, to dry bags that give you the peace of mind to hit top speeds. It’s the little things that can make all the difference. Such is the case with GreenHulk PWC’s offering of watercraft covers, a critical product for keeping your watercraft in peak condition.

The GreenHulk PWC website offers a wide selection of original factory watercraft covers for Yamaha, Sea-Doo, and Kawasaki PWCs, all designed to offer maximum protection for your investment, shielding it from environmental damage and wear.

Yamaha covers are particularly noted for their high-quality materials, providing long-lasting protection against UV rays, mildew, and weather damage. They are designed with zippered openings for easy access to tie-down cleats, making them ideal for trailering.

Similarly, Sea-Doo offers factory covers with durable engineering and a snug fit to ensure solid protection during storage and transport. Kawasaki’s watercraft covers feature vacuum-vented trailering systems and are made of Sur Last® solution-dyed polyester, a water, mildew, and UV-ray resistant material.

While these covers are a small price to pay to ensure your PWC is protected for years to come, GreenHulk PWC also offers a two-year warranty on many models, ensuring your investment pays off.
Check out the GreenHulk catalog now to grab one of these essential pieces of equipment or explore their extensive line of PWC products!

Oftentimes, the thing that separates a well-intentioned enthusiast from a true professional is the knowledge and technical understanding they bring to a sector. While anyone can go out and purchase high-quality equipment, it’s another thing altogether to be able to truly make the most of those tools. That’s why, aside from offering some of the top OEM products and upgrades on the market, Fuel Tech takes the time to offer regular courses to educate those who really want to take their expertise to another level.

Take, for example, an Electronic Control Unit (ECU). A quality ECU can be the necessary instrument to level up just about any vehicle to its maximum potential, whether it’s a racing car or a personal watercraft. They allow for precision control when it comes to things like fuel injection, ignition timing, boost control, and many other engine parameters, making them essential for professionals and enthusiasts in everything from drag racing to watercraft sports. However, simply plugging one in and reading a quick-start manual will never be enough for someone who wants to truly maximize speed and precision. That’s where Fuel Tech’s training course comes in.

The “Base Tune: 3-Day Training” seminar is coming up at the end of this month (September 25-27) and promises to provide advanced technical training to those wanting to take full advantage of their ECUs. The in person seminar features topics such as “Proper ECU & Component Selection,” “FT Manager Software Feature Introduction,” “Tuning Principles,” and “Base Map Creation,” among many others. It takes place in an intimate class of a maximum of 25 students led by experienced technicians and includes an FT Education Certificate, as well as training handbooks and promotional kits as bonuses. Classes run from 9 AM to 5 PM, include breakfast and lunch, and take place at their site in Ball Ground, Georgia.

Apart from this course, Fuel Tech is also offering another Base Tune training session at the end of the year for Spanish speakers, and they regularly run wiring and electrical courses for those looking to get more into the hardware aspects of the work. Those can be found on the Fuel Tech Education home page.

There’s no deadline to apply, but they’ve recently announced that there are limited seats remaining, so be sure to check out everything the “Base Tune” course has to offer before it’s too late!