Maintaining Your Water Jet Pump

All our AwaJets boat packages come complete with a Tohatsu or Suzuki outboard engine, already set up with a water jet pump. That means you're ready to hit the river as soon as you turn the key. But like anything mechanical, a bit of regular TLC goes a long way.

Keeping your jet pump in good nick is key to making sure your boat runs smooth, punches through the water efficiently, and doesn’t end up costing you a heap in repairs down the track.

Here’s what you need to know to stay on top of it...

1. Rinse it After Every Mission

If you’ve been blasting through saltwater or even some of the murkier stuff in our rivers, give the jet pump a good flush with fresh water. Salt and grit can chew out your impeller and wear ring if left to sit. Just hook up the flush port (if your setup has one), or run it in a drum of fresh water for a few minutes. Easy as.

2. Check the Intake Grate

Always have a check of the intake grate before and after each trip. Stones, sticks, and weeds can block it up or get sucked in. If you’re running shallow or through debris, this is even more important. Clear it out so you don’t lose performance or damage the impeller.

3. Inspect the Impeller and Wear Ring

Your impeller and wear ring are what make the jet pump work. If they get dinged up or worn out, you’ll notice straight away – sluggish take-off, vibration, or cavitation. Every 20-30 hours, pop the pump off and have a look. If it’s chipped or the gap between the impeller and wear ring is too wide, it’s time to sort it.

4. Keep an Eye on Seals and Bearings

Water and grit love to sneak into seals and bearings, and once they do, it’s game over pretty quick. Listen for unusual noises, feel for rough spinning, or check for water leaking where it shouldn’t be. If anything seems off, don’t muck around – get it serviced.

5. Grease the Fittings

Some jet pumps have grease nipples on the shaft or steering nozzle. Give them a pump of marine-grade grease every few outings to keep things running sweet and free of corrosion.

6. Store it Properly

If you’re not using the boat for a while, store it clean and dry. Flush the pump, disconnect the battery, and cover it up. Keeps the bugs out and stops corrosion setting in.

Final Word

Jet pumps are tough as, but they still need looking after. A bit of regular maintenance saves you time, money, and headaches later on. Stick to these basics, and your AwaJets rig will stay ready to rip whenever you are.

Keen to know more or need parts? Flick us a message or drop into the shop. We’re always happy to help out our fellow boaties and AwaJets drivers.

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Our package arrived safe and sound I’m wrapped with it. I am going through the run in process and just love the boat. Thankyou for your very professional approach and service, it’s been a pleasure.

Steve // //

I just want to say how happy I am with your Solar Package, especially the awesome trailer. The boat motor and trailer are set up real good. It’s a credit to you all.

Grant McGlade // //

Thank you and your company for the very professional service and correspondence in my purchase of one of your Solar Strela inflatables.

I have completed the two hours on the initial running in at half throttle of the motor and am looking forward to the power that I feel the engine can produce in making a safe trip in the river when I have to open it up. The boat performs probably beyond my expectations in cornering and stopping in a hurry.

Pete Salter // //

Best thing my husband has ever brought. You know I thought oh no it'll mean you'll be out with your mate's 247, but no it has brought our family closer and we have had many family adventures boating all across New Zealand. Stewart Island, Lake Hauroko, Wairaurahiri River, lake wanaka, the Wilkin, the horomanga, the whirinaki, waimana river, waioweka gorge, rangiteiki river, amongst a few, best purchase ever.

Karen - Facebook Comment // //

My husband and I were privileged to be able to hunt with Gary on his boat and what an awesome experience it was. We were able to penetrate deep into the Ngahere via the river. We quickly accessed the good hunting spots. These spots would normally take a long day of walking to access.

The boat managed the problematic areas of the river with ease and our comfort was not compromised. The boat was more than capable of the payload of 3 people, 3 dogs, and our hunting gear. Not to mention our harvested quarry on the return trip home.

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