Should I buy this jet ski?? 1996 Kawi ZXI 1100 Needs new block. $450?

Question

I came across a 1996 Kawasaki ZXI 1100 for sale. Here is what I know:

The good:

-Hull and seat are in pretty good shape, will just take some polishing compound to bring it back.

-Has older style carbs that actually perform better than the newer style CV carbs.

-Has intake and full exhaust and ignition

-Brand new (rebuilt) in the box solas prop with aluminum cone and install tool

The bad:

-Needs a block with all components(starter charging etc.) Can take an 1100 or a 900 motor (ZXI is 1100 motor in a 900 hull).

-Someone stole the choke cable and broke the fiberglass(can be fixed by s******g a small plate down and drilling a new choke hole).

-NO TRAILER

-pump needs a main bearing(50 bucks)

I am mechanically inclined having worked on about everything except a jet ski. Would this be worth my time and effort to buy, fix, and sale to turn a few $

Answer 1

Sounds like a good deal for the handyman type. If you do get the ski I have several used parts for it and others. If you need something let me know. Sorry but I do not have any 900 or 1100 engines left over this year.

Answer 2

Buy it as cheaply as you can because other things will pop up.

Go for it!!

Answer 3

Make sure you really know what you're getting into..

I work in marine sales and have sold engines to many mechanically inclined people who were installing them on their newer boats just to have them say they wish they'd bought a newer turn-key package.

You might install a new engine and find out other components need to be replaced/repaired as well. You might find the job is way over your head, or you'll have to spend more money than you originally intended.

If you really think it's worth the time and money you will spend, go for it! Otherwise, consider spending a little more money on a newer PWC.