Home Blog Page 53

FuelTech’s FT550 & FT600 to Replace OEM ECU Sea-Doo 325 RXP-X & RXTX

0

With innovation comes new challenges to hurdle. The introduction of the 325 ACE engine provided the performance community a new powerplant that has thus far, surpassed so many tuners’ expectations but with it came how to circumvent the almost impenetrable BOSCH ECU software.

Many now are resigned to physically cracking open the ECU housing and de-pinning the current processor and soldering in an older processor – one that is more easily reprogrammed. This physical replacement of the processor obliterates any hope of reversal or retaining any semblance of the factory warranty.

Rather, FuelTech offers a far more beneficial option: upgrading your Sea-Doo 325 with their FT550 or FT600 aftermarket ECUs. With the latest update to its software and the use of FuelTech’s FT550 2024 Sea-Doo 325 PWC PNP Harness, any tuner can safely and cleanly install a new ECU that retains full CAN communication with the OEM dashboard and Sea-Doo’s intelligent brake and reverse (iBR) system.

The list of added benefits is extensive, so much so that we’ve included the entire press release from FuelTech in its entirety below:
The updated FTManager software allows the OEM ECU on the Can-Am Maverick X3 UTV to be replaced with either the FT550 or FT600 aftermarket ECU. The v 5.2 update provides CAN communication capabilities with both the dashboard and the electric steering assist and includes protocols for 2016-2020 models and 2021-2024 models. The available FT600 plug and play harness adapter makes upgrading your Can-Am Maverick X3 to a FuelTech ECU easier than ever! Wiring Harness Adapters for 2021-2024 Maverick X3 and 2016-2020 Maverick X3 on our website.

The FTManager version 5.2 update also allows the Sea-Doo 325’s OEM ECU to be fully replaced with the FT550 or FT600. The update provides OEM CAN communication with the dashboard and Sea-Doo’s intelligent brake and reverse (iBR) system. The FT550 and FT600 are IP67 rated against water and fine dust particle intrusion, perfect for taking on tough trails or heading for open water. To make upgrading to the FT550 easier, the FT550 2024 Sea-Doo 325 PWC PNP Harness provides plug and play installation by utilizing the OEM wiring harness.

To download FTManager v 5.2, visit the FuelTech’s Software page. As always, our software is completely free and features are never hidden behind a paywall. Want to master tuning your FuelTech build? Learn more about our FT Education courses. Additionally v 5.2 features, changes and additions to existing features, and general software/feature corrections are listed below.

Electronic BlowOff Control by TPS variation (delta TPS) so it can be actuated on idle, 2-step, and/or 3-step to further aid in spooling the turbo.

Water Methanol Injection (WMI)
– Control by MAP, air temperature, exhaust temperature (EGT), and time after validated launch.
– Safety conditions by engine, air, and exhaust gas temperatures, water tank level, and more.
– Fuel and timing compensations by WMI

VW/Audi CAN Communication – Option to send engine RPM to OEM dashboard via CAN.

Jet Ski and UTV Timed main relay allows for a timer or optional input “Engine Off”

Blip, Heel and Toe New Activation Methods
– GCM – Gear control management
– Downshifts through the Automatic Transmission Control Feature
– Brake + clutch switches for downshift
– Clutch while upshifting with TPS above 0% – momentarily closes the throttle even with the throttle wide open
New Tables
– Electronic throttle opening on downshifts (by gear x RPM)
– Electronic throttle closing on upshifts (by gear x TPS)
– Output for blipping with mechanical throttle (ON/OFF) allows use of an actuator to pull the throttle cable for downshifts

Added Compensation by Differential Fuel Pressure
– Corrects injector duty cycle automatically, helping to reduce O2 closed loop compensation.
– Bank selection option to apply the compensation.

Check out Capria’s Clever Solution to Subpar Shorelines

0

Whether you own shorefront property, a marina, or even a dock, finding the proper space to store and launch your personal watercraft can be a challenge. Steep shorelines, sea walls, or space limits can restrict a PWC owner’s ability to easily launch his or her craft out onto the body of water. That’s not just a capacity limit… it’s a fun reduction!

Luckily, Capria S.A.’s PWC launcher offers a nifty solution to this struggle. Their state-of-the-art launching system allows you to easily move your PWC from on-land storage to the water. All you have to do is place your PWC in a cradle system, which then can be used to lower it into the water or raise it into storage in as little as five to fifteen seconds! The launcher allows for maximal flexibility as well, with angles ranging between 20° and 90° and a maximum distance of 100 feet, making it extra useful in areas with significant tide fluctuations.

With over 50 years of experience manufacturing precision heavy machinery, and more than 20 years working with marina systems, Capria offers a secure and reliable solution to your PWC launching needs. See the full press release below:

Many marina owners know they can generate a modest income stream through daily personal watercraft (PWC) launch fees. More are discovering the real money is in drystack storage.

An all-electric PWC Launcher from CAPRIA S.A. is easy to add to any small, unused portion of waterfront—whether it’s a steep embankment, concrete seawall or second-story structure. The opportunity to increase customer satisfaction and owner revenue is now in place.

Perfect for incorporating into a new or existing drystack operation, CAPRIA PWC Launchers are CE-marked and built to ISO 9001 standards. They’re manufactured to accommodate virtually any location. Vertical travel can reach up to 100′ with angles between 20° and 90°. This makes the machinery especially practical for marinas with extreme tidal fluctuations.

Operationally, it’s no different from a standard drystack business. Owners contact the marina to book a pickup time. PWCs up to 1,500 lbs. are loaded onto the PWC Launchers using a CAPRIA semi-automated Stacker Crane or forklift. Then, it’s a mere five to 15 seconds until it’s in the water.

CAPRIA S.A. has manufactured precision heavy machinery for over 50 years, including marine systems for over 20 years. With low-cost drystack installations around the world, it has a proven record of solidly improving profits for its customers.

Contact CAPRIA S.A., Haendel 32, Centro Industrial Garin, CP 1619 Garin, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Phone: +54 3327 414470; [email protected]; www.thestackermachinery.com.

FuelTech Offers Customers A Chance To Steal The Spotlight

0

Who doesn’t like the chance to brag? Especially when it comes to the PWCs (or other vehicles) that you pour your money, time and energy into? 

Well, FuelTech is now giving customers a chance to show off their ride. 

With the recent launch of their Customer Spotlight program, FuelTech is inviting customers to submit an entry for the chance to be highlighted on the company’s social media platforms. 

With the upload of an entry form, and photos and/or videos of your ride, as well as how you use FuelTech products, you could land on FuelTech’s spotlight page, garnering bragging rights and notoriety for your build. 

The process is as easy as 1, 2, 3:

Show Your Ride: Jet skis, cars, trucks, snowmobiles, tractors or something else entirely, if it runs FuelTech, they want to see it

Show your Fuel Tech: Be sure to include pictures and/or video of your FuelTech products with your Customer Spotlight Submission

Show off: Share pictures and/or video of your vehicle in action to show off what your ride can do.

And while you’re on the website, be sure to check out FuelTech’s line of quality performance parts for Sea-Doo, Yamaha and Kawasaki PWCs, featuring everything from high-performance ECUs and wiring harnesses to billet intake manifolds and oil pans.

Yamaha Motor Corp. USA Celebrates Stellar Mark Hahn 300 Performance by Yamaha Racers

0

Last weekend was the 20th annual Mark Hahn Memorial Havasu 300, the world’s longest continual PWC race. Dozens of participants took to the water to race across a 10-mile loop encompassing Lake Havasu, in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. Among the athletes were several piloting Yamaha WaveRunners who snagged some impressive placing when the race was called shortly after the 4-hour mark.

Among those were Mike Neumann and Bill Austin brought home a victory in the Manufacturers Stock class aboard a unmodified GP1800R SVHO proving the potency of the factory-stock Yamaha. Other Yamaha wins came from Craig Kelling and Andreas Kubatzki who grabbed second in modified Runabout Vet Master Open class, and Jamal Reyes and Juan Lezcano earned second in the Runabout 1100 Stock class.

Yamaha Motor Corp. USA celebrated the turnout of top tier WaveRunner racers in a Facebook post stating the following:
In a stirring display of skill, endurance, and product reliability, Yamaha riders Mike Neumann and Bill Austin clinched victory in the prestigious Manufacturers Stock class at the 20th Anniversary Mark Hahn 300 Personal Watercraft (PWC) endurance race, held on February 24 in Lake Havasu City, Arizona.

In addition to the win in the Manufacturers Stock class, Yamaha riders Jamal Reyes and Juan Lezcano finished second in the Runabout 1100 Stock class, followed by Yamaha rider Arnold Martinez, who finished third.

Yamaha pro riders Tory Snyder and Christopher Landis finished third in the modified Pro/Am Four-Stroke Open class. Yamaha riders Craig Kelling and Andreas Kubatzki finished second in the modified Runabout Vet Master Open class.

The victory in the Manufacturer’s Stock class is particularly noteworthy. This class is designed to showcase the out-of-the-box performance and reliability of PWCs, directly comparing manufacturers’ products under the most demanding conditions. Unlike modified types, where extensive tweaks and enhancements are the norms, the Manufacturers Stock class requires competitors to race on watercraft as close as possible to what consumers can purchase from dealers. This means that the victory is not just a testament to the riders’ skill and determination but also the superior design, engineering, and reliability of Yamaha WaveRunners®.

“We are thrilled with Mike and Bill’s victory at the Mark Hahn 300. It’s a testament to their hard work and the unmatched performance and reliability of our WaveRunners,” said Yamaha WaveRunner Racing manager Bryce Parker. “Winning the Manufacturers Stock class is particularly meaningful to us because it reflects the real-world capabilities of our watercraft. We believe it’s essential for our customers to know they are purchasing some of the most reliable and high-performing products on the market.”

The Mark Hahn 300, known as the longest continuous PWC race in the world, challenges teams to complete 300 miles on the waters of Lake Havasu. This grueling test of endurance, strategy, and equipment draws competitors from around the globe, making it a benchmark event in the PWC racing calendar.

Unlock Your ’24 Sea-Doo 325 With RIVA’s Ship-In SCOM Service

0

Since it’s release, unlocking the full potency buried within the new 325-horsepower Sea-Doo 1630 ACE engines have been the goal of tuners and racers. Due to the complex firewalls of the new Rotax software, the old ways of interrupting the satellite speed signals traveling between the dashboard and the ECU have been thwarted. This means contemporary speed control override modules (SCOM) are no longer valid on these new machines (they still work on all previous 260 and 300-horsepower models); thus focusing more hands on approaches.

RIVA Racing has recently announced its Speed Control Override Service for all 325 models (2025 RXT-X 325 and RXP-X 325) manually interrupting the “slow down” signal that forces the Sea-Doo to decelerate once the GPS-controlled speedometer reaches 70 miles-per-hour. What overriding the speed control signal does is remove any restrictions on your stock Sea-Doo’s top speeds. Equally, RIVA’s override service also allows the Sea-Doo to start in “Sport Mode” rather than having to manually toggle through the mode sequence.

Unfortunately, getting your Sea-Doo’s ECU unlocked requires mailing in your ECU and DESS post to RIVA Racing for manual reprogramming. Thankfully, RIVA’s turnaround is impressively quick, meaning you’ll have your ECU and DESS post returned to you in a matter of days instead of weeks from some other guys. Priced at $199.95, we’ve included both the orders email address, phone number as well as RIVA’s shipping address, so you’ve got everything you need to place your order.

Here’s the original press release:
The RIVA Speed Control Override Service removes the restrictive GPS speed control function on Sea-Doo 325 models delivering significant increases in top speed. Also allows system to start in “Sport Mode” for maximum performance. “Touring Mode” can be manually selected after start-up. This is a “mail-in” service requiring you ship your ECU and D.E.S.S. Post to RIVA for programming.

Upgraded Tuning Parameters:

  • Removes GPS controlled speed limiter.
  • Increases top speed utilizing stock ECU without tuning or modifications.
  • Works on all 2024 & newer 325hp Sea-Doo models.
  • Can deliver 80+mph top speed on 325hp RXP-X & RXT-X models.
  • Allows system to start in “Sport Mode”.
  • Does not affect ECU tuning or exhaust emissions.

NOTE: Stock ECU limits performance for first 10 hours of operation. Top speed increases should be measured after 10 hour break-in period.

Top speed without override service:

  • North American Models: 68 MPH
  • International Models: 72 MPH

Quick and easy service!

Step 1: After completing online purchase please print and complete this form (click here).

Step 2: Package the form, ECU and D.E.S.S. Post together. Do not send us your lanyard! Ship your ECU & D.E.S.S. Post to: RIVA Racing Attention: ECU S.C.O.S. | 3671 N. Dixie Highway | Pompano Beach, FL 33064 USA

Step 3: We will contact you when we receive your ECU & D.E.S.S. Post to confirm details.

Step 4: Free ground return shipping for continental USA customers!

Feel free to contact us with any questions:

Video: Kawi Performance Walks Through Ultra 300/310 Supercharger Maintenance

0

Kawasaki’s Eaton Twin Vortices Series (TVS) belt-driven supercharger is what The Watercraft Journal wrote, crams an “almost excessive 16.7psi at peak RPM down the Ultra 310X engine’s throat, resulting in a true 310-horsepower, producing 1,890 lbs. of thrust from its 160mm axial-flow, single stage jet pump.”

That being said, the amount of power produced by the Eaton superchargers creates a lot of wear-and-tear, meaning that maintenance is vital. So who better to guide both the expert and the novice through that upkeep than Kawi Performance (KP) owner Steve Ciervo. In the latest KP video release, that is exactly what he does, giving precise, easy to understand instructions, with his normal attention to detail and thoroughness.

Far from a quick run-through or overview, the video is an in-depth look into supercharger maintenance on the Kawasaki Ultra 300 and 310, where they guide you through the essential steps of maintaining your watercraft’s supercharger system, covering what doesn’t need replacement, what does need replacement, and when to schedule replacements and service.

 

Ciervo explains that the Eaton TVS is “not your standard, off-the-shelf Eaton Supercharger,” and describes the partnership between Kawasaki and Eaton to create the R-Series supercharger custom made for high RPM, and one where, for every engine revolution, the supercharger is sucking in fully twice the air it normally would. 

Ciervo points out that there are many aftermarket rebuild kits for the supercharger, but said they all have one thing in common: they don’t know this specific supercharger, resulting in ill-suited kits, sometimes even including things such as bearings that you shouldn’t need to replace, or are near impossible to replace.

But not to worry! Kawi Performance has rebuild kit options: a basic rebuild kit that includes bearings that most often need to be replaced; and two Full Rebuild Kits, one with Japanese bearings, and an “economy” kit with aftermarket bearings. All of which are available on the website linked HERE.

 

Broward Motorsports: Six-Store Speed Round of Savings

0

One of the most respected outfits in the PWC World, whether you’re talking racing or retail, Broward Motorsports undoubtedly has what it takes to put riders on the water – either by way of a new (or used) ski, top-of-the-line technology, high-quality service, or all the parts, accessories and apparel you need. And they have seven ways to get it to you – namely, Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, West Palm Beach, Jupiter/TequestaTreasure Coast/Hobe Sound, Miami, and the World Wide Web

While the renowned BMS reputation for quality and customer service links all the company’s operations, each site has their own focus and identity, and their own specials and sales, and today, The Watercraft Journal is going to do the legwork for you, and run a speed round through each store and highlight their specials, sales, promotions and events. 

Starting out our quick lap around the BMS stores with the Flagship Fort Lauderdale Store, we find a great Manager’s Special deal on a black and green 2023 Yamaha JetBlaster on sale for $9,999 with a financing offer of 0-down, 199 a mo @ 10.99 A.P.R. for 84 mos (W.A.C.), as well as several PWC models in their featured inventory list. Hanging out in the store’s announcement bar is notification of the news that Liqui-Moly is now available at BMS stores, a link to the Broward Motorsports Racing Instagram Account, and steps to join the BMS Text Club and get $25 off any $125 parts or accessories purchase, just by texting BROWARD to (844) 913-3612.

Next up is the Hollywood store, where you can preorder any 2024 Sea-Doo model and get 2-year coverage and $250 off accessories through March 31, plus the Yamaha Waverunner Best of Show event with three great financing deals to choose from on new 2018-2024 Yamaha WaveRunner made on the Yamaha Credit Card issued by WebBank, plus one-year Factory Warranty plus one-year complimentary Yamaha Extended Services. And to top it off, Hollywood has Red Tag savings every Saturday on new and pre-owned inventory, parts and accessories, not to mention hotdogs, burgers and kids activities from 12 – 4 p.m.

In West Palm Beach, take advantage of the BMS consignment plan and let BMS sell your old PWC for top dollar, paid off or not; or use their trade-in tool to find out what your existing PWC (or motorcycle, ATV or side-by-side)  is worth. And if you feel like veering away from the PWC line, check out the manager’s special on a sharp-looking blue 2023 Sea-Doo Switch Sport with trailer included for $37,888 – a savings of more than $3,000.

Next is the Jupiter/Tequesta store, where they are running a special on the 2023 Sea-Doo RXP®-X® 300 Tech Package in sleek Triple Black with race-ready performance. You can also take advantage of their Premier PWC and Boat Service, with same-day service (with appointment), dockside service available, and more, with a 10% discount (terms apply) available on your next service – not to mention managers specials that include a  2024 Yamaha FX Cruiser SVHO for $19,799

Moving on to Treasure Coast/Hobe Sound, we find a $1,000 rebate and financing starting at 2.99% on 2023 Sea-Doo RXP-X and RXT-X 300 models through 3/31, not to mention the green 2023 Sea-Doo RXP®-X® Apex 300 in featured inventory for $17,483 – more than $3,500 off the regular price, and a 2023 Yamaha SuperJet® also in featured inventory for $7,983 – more than $2,500 off the normal price.

Finishing up our tour at Miami, we find not only great deals, but information and education too, with a list of frequently-asked questions about jet skis  (and the answers) and a “How To Drive A Jet Ski For Beginners” video. 

 If you feel like breaking away from the jet ski for a bit, you can also check out the Winter Sales Event featuring 2023 and 2024 Scarabs, with up to $8,000 cash savings or APR as low as 4.99 through 3/19.

And for those who can’t make it to the Florida stores, be sure to browse the websites for each of the stores to find great prices on parts, service, new and used inventory, and more.

 

RIVA’s New Performance Ride Plate for All 2022+ Ultra JetSkis

0

Since the redesign in 2022, Kawasaki Motors USA has expanded the Ultra JetSki family many times over, branching further into naturally-aspirated models – be it the family touring-friendly 160LX-S, luxurious 160LX or newly minted 160LX-S Angler – as well as supercharged entries – the rarin’-to-race 310X, tow sports-ready 310LX-S or top tier 310LX. This opens Kawasaki’s full-sized JetSki to far wider audience of would-be buyers, and thereby, aftermarket customers.

RIVA Racing has been hot to get a new batch of performance parts out to market for the revised Ultras and possibly one of the most anticipated has been its new Performance Ride Plate for 2022+ Kawasaki Ultra 310 & 2023+ Ultra 160 models ($429.95). Developed in conjunction with RIVA Team Rider Camden Powell’s efforts during the 2023 P1 AquaX Series, the RIVA Performance Ride Plate provides increased top speed (3+ mph) and improved handling in all conditions.

Wait, WHAAAT? Yes, in building off of its current design, RIVA radically increased the length and angle of the rising ramp, added a stability-increasing center skeg, and deepened the channels for maximum traction in turns and improved straight line tracking. The number of inverted chines were doubled from two to four, all of which keeps the tail planted while pulling the big Ultra to plane faster and with less bow drag – all winning features.

Unfortunately, these won’t be ready to ship until late April but as is with most things these days, supplies are gonna be tight so you’ll want to get your order in now so you can be one of the first to enjoy the increased acceleration, added top speed, reduced porpoising, and improved cornering and straight-line track at top speed. Oh yeah, and if you’re wondering if this plate is legal to use in racing applications, it’s already been approved by the IJSBA.

Video: Active Jetsport Catch Cans Prove That Quality Doesn’t Always Cost More

0

The choice between low quality/low cost, and high quality/high cost is a fairly common discussion in any activity that involves technology – especially a pursuit as driven by speed, power and performance as the PWC world, and that holds true for both the race side and the recreation side of the sport.

What you rarely see discussed, is the choice between high quality/high cost, and high quality/low(er) cost  – Probably because the choice doesn’t come around that often!

Active Jetsport supplies the exception to the rule when it comes to PWC parts, providing fairly-priced, high-quality components, often a large step up from OEM quality. And this stands true for Active Jetsport’s  catch cans

For those new to the PWC world, or those not versed in PWC mechanics, a catch can prevents oil and contaminants from penetrating your intake system, improving the combustion process and keeping your engine efficient and your intake tract clean and free from buildup.

Machined from aluminum instead produced from the more commonly-used plastic, Active Jetsport’s catch cans not only offer top-notch performance, but look sharp while they’re at it, and are available in three anodized colors – none of which are age-yellowed plastic!

The design and placement of the Active Jetsport catch cans are geared toward efficiency and effectiveness – the catch cans are 100% filled with oil vapor condensing foam to pull as much oil from the passing air as possible; they are designed to allow quick and easy access to check/drain any collected fluids using the bottom mounted drain (or you can simply unscrew the lower half to fully inspect contents); and they are placed to allow easy service access at the front of the engine, with no need to remove top deck components just to access the catch can – and all for under $150!

All Active Jetsport catch cans come with everything required for installation (although they do recommend the additional use of blue thread locker on the mounting bracket bolts.)

In addition, Active Jetsport provides a step-by-step detailed installation guide on their website. 

Be sure to check out the Active Jetsport website, Facebook page and Instagram account for specifications, model compatibility charts, more.

And Active Jetsport even provides a sneak peak at their catch can installed on a 2024 Sea-Doo RXP 325. 

Video: The Basics of Kawasaki Key Programming

0

While we all love finding new ways to boost our personal watercraft’s speed, performance, and agility, sometimes the most important features go overlooked. Things like basic security and theft prevention are essential to protecting your watercraft and should be the first priority for all owners.

On Kawasaki watercraft, a key must be inserted; otherwise, the ignition system, injectors, and fuel pump will not operate, and the engine will not start.

In this guide, based on Kawi Performance’s incredible video tutorial, we’ll walk you through five easy steps to program your keys for your Kawasaki watercraft. If you’re looking for new keys to program, you can buy aftermarket keys from Kawi Performance’s catalog.

To follow this guide, you’ll need a pick, a Kawasaki Key Tool (57001-1582), and its adapter for 2011+ models (57001-1746).

How to Program a Kawasaki Key

  1. Use a pick to push in the rivets around the panel and remove the cover.
  2. Remove the cap on the connector and attach the Key Programming Tool to the connector.
  3. Insert an original programmed key into the ignition of the watercraft and wait to hear two short beeps, followed by another beep. This means your key has been read.
  4. Insert a new, un-programmed key and listen for two beeps. This means your key has been programmed.
  5. Repeat for as many keys as necessary, then push in and hold until beeping stops to end the process. Remove the key when the dash turns off.

Note: With Kawi Performance Keys, you may need to pull the key slightly out while programming to ensure a proper read.

Check out the full video from Kawi Performance and be sure to check out their full catalog of parts!