2004Honda ARX1200T3/N3AQUATRAX F-12X/F-12OWNER’S MANUAL

Congratulations on choosing your Hondapersonal watercraft (PWC).

When you own a Honda, you’re part of aworldwide family of satisfied customerspeople who appreciate Honda’s reputation forbuilding quality into every product.

Your Honda was designed as a recreationalPWC for use by one operator and one or twopassengers.

Before riding, take time to get acquaintedwith your PWC and how it works. To protectyour investment, we urge you to takeresponsibility for keeping your PWC wellmaintained. Scheduled service is a must, ofcourse. But it’s just as important to observethe break-in guidelines, and perform all pre-ride checks and post-ride maintenancedetailed in this manual.

We also recommend that you read thisowner’s manual before you ride. It’s full offacts, instructions, safety information, andhelpful tips. To make it easy to use, themanual contains a table of contents, a detailedlist of topics at the beginning of each section,and an index at the back of the book.

As you read this manual, you will findinformation that is preceded by asymbol. This information is intended to helpyou avoid damage to your Honda, otherproperty, or the environment.

Introduction

Introduction

NOTICE

Read the Warranties Booklet (page 219)thoroughly so you understand the coveragesthat protect your new Honda and are aware ofyour rights and responsibilities.

As a PWC owner, you have joined a largercommunity of riders who want to ensure thatthere are places to ride. So when you ride, beconsiderate of other boaters, swimmers, andpeople on shore. Keep noise levels down,don’t jump wakes, and only ride in areaswhere it’s legal to ride PWCs.

If you have any questions about your PWC,or if you ever need special service or repairs,remember that your Honda PWC dealerknows your PWC best and is dedicated toyour complete satisfaction.

Please report any change of address orownership to your Honda PWC dealer so wewill be able to contact you concerningimportant production information.

You may also want to visit our website atwww. honda.com.

For a list of authorized Honda PWC dealers,please refer to the following website:www. hondamotorcycle.com, or call customerservice at 1-310-532-9811.

Happy riding!

California Proposition 65 WarningWARNING: Engine exhaust, some of itsconstituents, and certain vehicle componentscontain or emit chemicals known to the Stateof California to cause cancer and birth defectsor other reproductive harm.

Introduction

Introduction

A Few Words About Safety

Safety Messages

Your safety, and the safety of others, is very important. And operating this PWC safely is animportant responsibility.

To help you make informed decisions about safety, we have provided operating procedures andother information on labels and in this manual. This information alerts you to potential hazards thatcould hurt you or others.

Of course, it is not practical or possible to warn you about all hazards associated with operating ormaintaining a PWC. You must use your own good judgment.

You will find important safety in formation in a variety of forms, including :

• Safety Labels — on the PWC.

• Safety Messages — preceded by a safety alert symbol and one of three signal words :DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION.

These signal words mean :

A Few Words About Safety

Safety Messages

You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don’t followinstructions.

You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don’t followinstructions.

You CAN be HURT if you don’t follow instructions.

• Safety Headings — such as Important Safety Reminders or Important Safety Precautions.

• Safety Section — such as PWC Safety.

• Instructions — how to use this PWC correctly and safely.

This entire manual is filled with important safety information — please read it carefully.

DANGER

WARNING

CAUTION

These pages give an overview of the contentsof your owner’s manual. The first page ofeach section lists the topics covered in thatsection.

PWC Safety · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 1Important safety information you shouldknow, plus a look at the safety related labelson your PWC.

Instruments & Controls · · · · · · · · · · · · 11The location and function of indicators andcontrols on your PWC and operatinginstructions for various controls andfeatures.

Before Riding · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 49The importance of wearing a personalflotation device (PFD) and other protectivegear, how to make sure you and your PWCare ready to ride, and important informationabout loading.

Basic Operation & Riding· · · · · · · · · · 65How to start and stop the engine, andoperate the PWC. Also, riding precautionsand important information about launchingyour PWC and riding with passengers.

Contents

Contents

Contents

Servicing Your Honda · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 99Why your PWC needs regular maintenance,what you need to know before servicingyour Honda, an owner maintenanceschedule, and instructions for specificmaintenance and adjustment items.

Tips · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 165How to store and transport your PWC andhow to be an environmentally-responsiblerider.

Taking Care of the Unexpected· · · · · · · 177What to do if you capsize, your enginewon’t start, etc.

Technical Information · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 197Serial numbers, technical specifications,and other technical facts.

Consumer Information · · · · · · · · · · · · · 215Information on warranties, emissioncontrols, how to get Honda servicemanuals, and...“Reporting Safety Defects” · · · · · · · · 223

Table of Contents · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 224Sequential listing of topics in this owner’smanual.

Index · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 228

Quick ReferenceHandy facts about fuel, engine oil, andspark plugs.

Contents

PWC Safety

PWC Safety 1

This section presents some of the mostimportant information and recommendationsto help you operate your PWC safely. Pleasetake a few moments to read these pages. Thissection also includes information about thelocation of safety labels on your PWC.

Important Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . .2Safety Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Important Safety Information

PWC Safety2

Your Honda PWC is a high performance boat,not a toy. Honda recommends that it beoperated by someone at least 16 years old.

Your PWC can provide many years of serviceand pleasure – if you take responsibility foryour safety and understand the challengesyou can meet while riding.

There is much that you can do to protectyourself when you ride. You’ll find manyhelpful recommendations throughout thismanual. The following are a few that weconsider most important.

Avoid CollisionsThe most common type of PWC accident iscolliding with another vessel. In addition,collisions result in more injuries and deathsthan any other type of PWC accident.

Understanding how your PWC operates iskey to avoid collisions. Your PWC does nothave brakes, so you must plan ahead if youare slowing to a stop. Your PWC is propelledby jet thrust (page 67), so the engine must beon with throttle applied to accelerate or turn.Without jet thrust, you will not be able tosteer (page 86).

Important Safety Information

Ride DefensivelyWatching out for other water users aroundyou and knowing the rules of the waterwaycan help you out of trouble (page 68). Keep asafe distance away from people, objects, andother watercraft. Remember that if you are ona collision course, it’s your responsibility toavoid the collision. For other riding tips, seethe Personal Watercraft Rider’s Handbookthat came with your PWC.

Wear a PFD and Protective ClothingWhen you ride your PWC, you must wear aCoast Guard-approved Type I , II or III PFD(personal flotation device). It’s the law in allstates, and it could save your life. In addition,you should wear appropriate protectiveclothing, including a wetsuit bottom orequivalent, footwear, gloves and eyeprotection (page 51).

PWC Safety 3

Important Safety Information

Get TrainingAccording to the Coast Guard, more than 85% of all fatalities involved people who didnot have boating instruction. You can receiveboating and PWC instruction from a numberof different agencies (page 53).

Even if you have ridden other PWCs, taketime to become familiar with how this PWCworks and handles. Practice in a safe area,away from boats and swimmers, until youbuild your skills and get accustomed to thePWC’s size and handling.

Ride within Your LimitsPushing limits can increase the risk of loss ofcontrol and collision. Never ride beyond yourpersonal abilities or faster than conditionspermit. Remember that alcohol, drugs,fatigue, and inattention can significantlyreduce your ability to make good judgementsand ride safely.

Don’t Drink and RideAlcohol and boating don’t mix. Even onedrink can reduce your ability to respond tochanging conditions, and your reaction timegets worse with every additional drink. Sodon’t drink and ride, and don’t let yourfriends drink and ride either.

PWC Safety4

Important Safety Information

PWC Safety 5

Keep Your Honda in Safe ConditionIt’s important to keep your PWC properlymaintained and in safe riding condition. Tohelp avoid problems, inspect your PWCbefore every ride and perform allrecommended maintenance. Never exceedload limits (page 59), and do not remove anyoriginal equipment or modify your PWC inany way that would change its design oroperation.

PWC Safety

Safety Labels

6

Safety labels on your PWC either warn you of potential hazards that could cause serious injury orthey provide important safety information. Read these labels carefully and don’t remove them.

If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your Honda PWC dealer for a replacement.

WARNINGTo 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 jet thrust nozzleNormal swimwear does not adequately protect against forceful water entryinto lower body cavities. All riders must wear a wet suit bottom or clothingthat provides equivalent protection ( See Owner's Manual ) .Footwear, gloves, and goggles/glasses are recommended.KNOW BOATING LAWS. Honda recommends a minimum operator age of 16 years old. Know the operator age and training 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 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 AGGRESSIVE MANEUVERS to reduce the risk of loss of control, ejection, and collision. This is a high performance boat - not a toy. Sharp turns or jumpingwakes 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 exiting 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 READ AND FOLLOW OWNER'S MANUAL

Jet Thrust Nozzle

Intake Grate

PFD

Wet SuitBottom

Safety Labels

PWC Safety 7

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 others.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 understand where you are going.Avoid areas with submerged objects or shallow water.

TAKE EARLY ACTION to avoid collisions. Remember, 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 controls for proper operation before starting PWC. Follow navigation rules and state and local laws that apply to PWCs.See Owner's Manual for more information.

WARNING

8 PWC Safety

Safety Labels

WARNINGOverloading or improperly loading the PWC can makeit difficult to control and could result in an accident.See Owner's Manual for loading information.

WARNINGStoring fuel in this compartment can be a fire orexplosion hazard which can result in injury or death.Do not store fuel or other flammable liquids in thisunventilated compartment.

WARNINGShifting to reverse while moving forward can causeabrupt deceleration. You and your passengers canbe seriously injured. See Owner's Manual.

WARNINGStarting the engine without ventilating the enginecompartment can cause a fire or explosion.See Owner's Manual.

9PWC Safety

Safety Labels

WARNINGTowing a skier, another watercraft, or other heavyitems can make the PWC difficult to control andcould result in an accident.See Owner's Manual for towing information.

PWC Safety10

Instruments & Controls

Instruments & Controls 11

This section shows the location of all gauges,indicators, and controls you would normallyuse before or while riding your PWC.

The items listed on this page are described inthis section. Instructions for othercomponents are presented in other sections ofthis manual where they will be most useful.

Component Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Multi-function Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

SET Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26MODE Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26ID SET Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27ID No. Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27Low Oil Pressure Indicator . . . . . . . . . 28Engine Cooling Water TemperatureIndicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Low Battery Voltage Indicator . . . . . . . 30Fuel Gauge and Low Fuel Indicator . . . . 31Digital Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

(cont’d)

Instruments & Controls

Instruments & Controls12

Controls & Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34ID Lock System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34Limit Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39Start Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40Engine Stop Button/Switch . . . . . . . . . 40Safety Lanyard & Lock Clip . . . . . . . . 41Handlebar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42Throttle Lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42Reverse Lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43Jet Pump Water Intake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44Cooling Water Bypass Outlet . . . . . . . . . 44Bilge Drain Plugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45Flushing Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45Jet Pump Steering Nozzle . . . . . . . . . . . . 46Bow & Stern Eyelets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47Grab Rail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Component Locations

Instruments & Controls 13

indicatorsfront hood latch

multi-function display

rearview mirror

start button

lock clipsafety lanyard

rearview mirror

throttle lever

engine stopbutton/switch

display controlbuttons

Component Locations

Instruments & Controls14

hood

bow eyelet

fuel fill cap

handlebar

reverse lever

front seat

sponson

rear seat

fire extinguisher compartmenttool kit compartment

front storage compartment

seat strap

Component Locations

Instruments & Controls 15

rear seat latch

grab rail sponson

glove box

front seat latch

stern eyelet

Component Locations

Instruments & Controls16

jet pump water intake

grate

drive shaft

ride plate

engine compartment

UNDER HULL

footboard

Component Locations

Instruments & Controls 17

cooling waterbypass outlet

flushing connector

bilge drain plug jet pump steering nozzle bilge drain plug

reverse bucket

exhaust outlet

Component Locations

Instruments & Controls18

oil filler cap/dipstick

oil drain pipe cap

fuse boxbilge strainerspark plugsoil filter

batterymaintenancejoint

throttle adjuster

air filter

air box drain tube

Instruments & Controls 19

Multi-function Display

The multi-function display and beeper onyour PWC keep you informed, alert you topossible problems, and make your ridingmore enjoyable. Refer to the displayfrequently. Its functions are described on thefollowing pages.

(1) tachometer(2) WARNING lamp(3) low battery voltage indicator(4) engine cooling water temperature

indicator(5) LIMIT MODE indicator(6) low oil pressure indicator(7) PGM-FI malfunction indicator

lamp (MIL) (8) SET button(9) MODE button

(10) ID No. button(11) ID SET button (12) multi-function meter(13) low fuel indicator(14) fuel gauge(15) speedometer

(1)

(2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7)

(8)

(9)

(15) (13) (12) (11) (10)(14)

Instruments & Controls20

Multi-function Display

Display Check

After inserting the lock clip in the engine stopbutton/switch or after releasing the ID locksystem, the beeper sounds twice and all thesegments of the multi-function display,except the tachometer, will appear. Then alltachometer segments will turn on and off insequence. After the check is complete, youwill see the normal displays.

If any part of these displays does not come onwhen it should, have your Honda PWC dealercheck for problems.

(1) multi-function display(2) tachometer

(1)(2)

Instruments & Controls 21

1 tachometer Shows engine speed in revolutions per minute (rpm).

2 WARNING lamp Flashes under the following conditions:(1) The remaining fuel is low.(2) There is a fault in the fuel system.(3) The engine oil pressure is low.(4) The engine cooling water temperature is high.(5) There is any abnormality in the PGM-FI system.(6) The battery voltage is low (below approx. 11.5 V).If the indicator flashes, immediately take theshortest route to land.

3 low battery voltage indicator Flashes when the battery voltage is below approx. 11.5 V.If the indicator flashes, immediately take the shortest route to land.This indicator is usually off.

Multi-function Display

Instruments & Controls22

4 engine cooling water temperature Flashes when the engine cooling water temperature indicator is high enough to cause engine damage.

If the indicator flashes, immediately take the shortest route to land, then see page 182 for instructions and precautions.This indicator is usually off.

5 LIMIT MODE indicator Comes on when the limit mode is activated and continues to flash while the mode is active (page 39).This indicator is usually off.

6 low oil pressure indicator Flashes when the engine oil pressure is low enough to cause engine damage.If the indicator flashes, immediately take the shortest route to land, then see page 183 for instructions and cautions.This indicator is usually off.

Multi-function Display

Instruments & Controls 23

Multi-function Display

7 PGM-FI malfunction indicator Flashes when there is some abnormality in the lamp (MIL) PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) system.

Occasionally, depending on the abnormality, engine revs may be limited to less than 3,000 rpm. In extreme cases, the engine will stop.If the indicator flashes, immediately take the shortest route to land.If the engine stops, tow your PWC to land. This indicator is usually off.

8 SET button Resets the tripmeter and time meter to zero (0)(page 26).Also used to set the digital clock (page 32).

9 MODE button Selects the mode of the multi-function meter: digitalclock, tachometer, time meter, tripmeter, hourmeter.Selects ON or OFF for the limit mode.Also used to set the digital clock (page 32).

10 ID No. button Selects or changes the ID number (page 34).Also used to switch the display to the set up condition of the ID number (page 34).

11 ID SET button Enters or cancels the ID number.Also used to activate the ID lock system.

12 multi-function meter The meter includes the following functions:digital clock ( ) Shows hour and minute (page 32).tachometer Shows engine speed in revolutions per minute (rpm).time meter ( ) Shows the hours and minutes of engine operation

since you last reset the meter. To reset the time meter to zero (0), press and hold the SET button.

tripmeter ( ) Shows the number of miles ridden since you last reset the meter. To reset the tripmeter to zero (0), press and hold the SET button.

hourmeter Shows the total hours of engine operation.Check the hourmeter to determine when the next scheduled maintenance is due.

Instruments & Controls24

Multi-function Display

If the battery is disconnected, the digital clock, tripmeter, and time meter will reset.

Multi-function Display

Instruments & Controls 25

13 low fuel indicator Flashes when the fuel remaining in the tank is about:3.41 US gal (12.9R)

14 fuel gauge Shows approximate fuel supply available (page 31).When segment F goes on, the fuel tank capacity is:16.64 US gal (63.0R)When segment E flashes while riding, fuel remainingin the tank is about:3.41 US gal (12.9R)

15 speedometer Shows approximate riding speed in miles per hour.

Instruments & Controls26

The SET button is used to set the digitalclock (page 32).

The SET button is also used to reset (zero)the tripmeter and time meter. To reset thetripmeter and time meter, press and hold thebutton for about 2 seconds.

The MODE button is used to set the digitalclock (page 32).

The MODE button is also used to switchbetween 5 displays (digital clock, tachometer,time meter, tripmeter and hourmeter). Toswitch from one display to another, push thebutton.

The MODE button is also used to select thelimit mode. To select the limit mode, pressand hold the button for at least 5 seconds withthe engine off (page 39).

digital clock

tachometer

time meter

tripmeter

hourmeter

Multi-function Display

SET Button

MODE Button

Instruments & Controls 27

The ID SET button is used to enter the IDnumber. To enter the number, push the button(page 34).

The ID SET button is also used to activate theID lock system.

The ID No. button is used to select an IDnumber. To select a number, push the button(page 34).

The ID No. button is also used to switch thedisplay to the set up condition of the IDnumber. To switch, press and hold the button.

Multi-function Display

ID SET Button

ID No. Button

The low oil pressure indicator (1) and theWARNING lamp (2) flash and the warningbeeper sounds when engine oil pressure islow enough to cause engine damage.The engine automatically slows to preventdamage.

To stop the warning beeper, press and holdany one of the four control buttons (SET,MODE, ID SET, or ID No.) for about 2seconds.

If this occurs, head for shore and turn theengine OFF. See page 183 for instructionsand cautions.

Continuing to ride with low oil pressure cancause serious engine damage.

(1) low oil pressure indicator(2) WARNING lamp

Instruments & Controls28

Multi-function Display

Low Oil Pressure Indicator NOTICE

(2)(1)

Instruments & Controls 29

Multi-function Display

Continuing to ride with an overheated enginecan cause serious engine damage.

(1) engine cooling water temperature indicator(2) WARNING lamp

NOTICE

(1)(2)

Engine Cooling Water TemperatureIndicator

The engine cooling water temperatureindicator (1) and the WARNING lamp (2)flash and the warning beeper sounds whenthe engine cooling water is over the specifiedtemperature. The engine automatically slowsto prevent damage.

To stop the warning beeper, press and holdany one of the four control buttons (SET,MODE, ID SET, or ID No.) for about 2seconds.

If this occurs, head for shore and turn theengine OFF. See page 182 for instruction andprecautions.

Instruments & Controls30

If the battery voltage is low (below approx.11.5 V), the low battery voltage indicator (1)and the WARNING lamp (2) flash and thewarning beeper sounds.

To stop the warning beeper, press and holdany one of the four control buttons (SET,MODE, ID SET, or ID No.) for about 2seconds.

If the low battery voltage indicator and theWARNING lamp flash before leaving shore,charge the battery (page 160). If the indicatorstill flashes after charging, see your HondaPWC dealer.

If the indicator and WARNING lamp flashand the beeper sounds while riding,immediately head for shore and see yourHonda PWC dealer as soon as possible.

(1) low battery voltage indicator(2) WARNING lamp

Multi-function Display

Low Battery Voltage Indicator

(1)

(2)

Instruments & Controls 31

The fuel gauge liquid crystal display (1)shows the approximate fuel supply available.The fuel tank capacity is:16.64 US gal (63.0R)

When segment E (2), the low fuel indicator(3) and WARNING lamp flash and thewarning beeper sounds, you should refill thetank as soon as possible.The amount of fuel remaining when theflashing starts is approximately:3.41 US gal (12.9R)

To stop the warning beeper, press and holdany one of the four control buttons (SET,MODE, ID SET, or ID No.) for about 2seconds.

(1) fuel gauge display

(2) segment E (3) low fuel indicator

Multi-function Display

Fuel Gauge and Low Fuel Indicator (1)

(3)(2)

Instruments & Controls32

Shows hour and minute. To adjust the time,proceed as follows:

1. Insert the lock clip in the engine stopbutton/switch to turn on the display. Ifnecessary, enter the ID number after thisoperation (page 37).

2. Switch the multi-function meter (1) to thedigital clock mode by pushing the MODEbutton (2).

3. Press and hold the SET button (1) for atleast 2 seconds. The clock will be set in theadjust mode with the hour display flashing.

(1) multi-function meter(2) MODE button(3) SET button

Multi-function Display

Digital Clock

(3)

(2)

(1)

Instruments & Controls 33

4. To set the hour, push the MODE button (2)until the desired hour appears.• Quick setting – press and hold the MODE

button until the desired hour appears.5. Push the SET button. The minute display

will start flashing.6. To set the minute, push the MODE button

until the desired minute appears.• Quick setting – press and hold the MODE

button until the desired minute appears.7. To end the adjustment, press the SET

button or pull the lock clip out of theengine stop button/switch.

The display will stop flashing automaticallyand the adjustment will be cancelled if thebutton is not pressed within 30 seconds.

(2) MODE button

Multi-function Display

(2)

Instruments & Controls34

Your PWC is equipped with an ID locksystem that prevents the engine being startedby anyone who doesn’t have the ID number.

To Create an ID Number1. Insert the lock clip in the engine stop

button/switch to turn on the display.2. Press and hold the ID No. button (1) for at

least 2 seconds. The display will switch tothe entry mode with the ID No. mark (2)and the first digit of the ID numberflashing. The beeper sounds once.

(1) ID No. button (2) ID No. mark

Controls & Features

ID Lock System

(2)

(1)

Instruments & Controls 35

3. Push the ID No. button until the desirednumber is displayed.

4. Push the ID SET button (3), the seconddigit of ID number display will startflashing.

5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 two more times toselect all three digits.• To advance the number, press and hold

the ID No. button.6. After all three digits flash, press and hold

the ID SET button.In this time, push the ID SET button once,the number will cancel.

The beeper will sound once after entry iscompleted.

“000” cannot be used as an ID number.

(3) ID SET button

Controls & Features

(3)

Instruments & Controls36

Controls & Features

To Activate the Lock System1. With the engine OFF, press and hold the ID

SET button for at least 2 seconds when themulti-function display goes on.The key mark (4) will start flashing.

2. Push the ID SET button once. The keymark will go on and the first digit of the IDnumber will start flashing and the beepersounds once.

3. Pull the lock clip out of the engine stopbutton/switch.

(4) key mark

(4)

Instruments & Controls 37

To Deactivate the Lock System1. Insert the lock clip in the engine stop

button/switch to turn on the display.2. Follow steps 3-6 under To Create an ID

Number (page 35).

If the number you entered is correct, thebeeper will sound twice, and the engine maybe started. If you enter the wrong number,you are allowed two more attempts.After three failures to enter the correctnumber, the display will turn off.

In order to try again, remove and insert thelock clip.

If you forget the ID number and have notrecorded it elsewhere, contact your HondaPWC dealer.

Controls & Features

Instruments & Controls38

Controls & Features

To Change the ID Number1. Insert the lock clip in the engine stop

button/switch to turn on the display.2. Press and hold the ID No. button for at

least 2 seconds. The display will switch tothe change mode with the ID No. mark andfirst digit of ID number appearing.

3. Enter the current number.4. Enter the new number.5. To register the new number, press and hold

the ID SET buttom.

After the change is completed, the beeper willsound once.

“000” cannot be used as an ID number.

Instruments & Controls 39

The limit mode restricts the speed of your PWC(approx. 35 mph) to allow new riders to becomeaccustomed to its operation. Anyone riding thisPWC for the first time should use this mode andpractice basic operation of the PWC to becomefamiliar with the behavior of the PWC.

To Activate the Limit Mode• With the engine off, press and hold the

MODE button (1) for at least 5 secondsuntil the LIMIT MODE indicator (2) goeson.

When this mode is active while riding, theLIMIT MODE indicator flashes.When the indicator flashes, release thethrottle slightly.

To Cancel the Limit Mode• With the engine off, press and hold the

MODE button for more than 5 secondsuntil the LIMIT MODE indicator goes off.

(1) MODE button (2) LIMIT MODE indicator

Controls & Features

Limit Mode

(2)

(1)

Instruments & Controls40

The green start button (1) is used for startingthe engine. See Starting Procedure, page 73.

The engine will not start if the ID lock systemis active.

The red engine stop button/switch (2) is usedto stop the engine. To operate, push thebutton. See How to Stop the Engine, page 76.

LEFT HANDLEBAR

(1) start button(2) engine stop button/switch

Controls & Features

Start Button(1)

(2)

Engine Stop Button/Switch

Instruments & Controls 41

The safety lanyard (1) should be worn aroundthe operator’s left wrist. Before starting theengine, insert the lock clip (2) in the enginestop button/switch.

If the operator falls overboard or away fromthe controls, the engine will stop immediatelywhen the lock clip is pulled away from theengine stop button/switch.

To prevent theft or accidental starting,remove the lock clip from the engine stopbutton/switch and take the safety lanyard withyou when you leave your PWC.

LEFT HANDLEBAR

(1) safety lanyard(2) lock clip

Controls & Features

Safety Lanyard & Lock Clip

(1)

(2)

Instruments & Controls42

The handlebar is used to steer your PWC.(Turning the PWC also requires applyingsome throttle.)

The throttle lever (1) is used to control enginerpm (speed). To go faster, pull the levertoward you. To go slower, reduce pressure toallow the lever to move away from you. Thethrottle lever will automatically return to theclosed position (engine idle) when you let gooff the lever.

RIGHT HANDLEBAR

(1) throttle lever

Controls & Features

Handlebar

Throttle Lever

(1)

Instruments & Controls 43

The reverse lever (1) is used to select reverseoperation. Squeeze the trigger (2) and pull thereverse lever toward you to lower the reversebucket (3) over the jet pump steering nozzle.This reverses the direction of the water thrust.To cancel reverse operation, push the leverforward until the trigger locks.

See Reverse Operation, page 89.

LEFT SIDE

(1) reverse lever (2) trigger

REAR

(3) reverse bucket

Controls & Features

Reverse Lever

(1)

(2)

(3)

Instruments & Controls44

The jet pump water intake (1) draws waterinto the propulsion system. A grate (2) helpsto screen out debris.

UNDER HULL

(1) jet pump water intake(2) grate

The cooling water bypass outlet (1) is used tocheck that water is circulating properly in theengine cooling system while the engine isrunning. If you don’t see water flowing out ofthe outlet, stop the engine.Check for possible causes of the problem(page 194).

REAR

(1) cooling water bypass outlet

Controls & Features

Jet Pump Water Intake Cooling Water Bypass Outlet

(1)

(2)

(1)

Instruments & Controls 45

The two bilge drain plugs (1) are used todrain water from the engine compartment.This operation should be performed with yourPWC out of the water and the engine off. Theplugs must be secured before returning yourPWC to the water to avoid possible enginedamage.

REAR

(1) bilge drain plugs (A) open(B) close

The flushing connector (1) is used forattaching a garden hose to flush the enginecooling system (page 150).

REAR

(1) flushing connector

Controls & Features

Bilge Drain Plugs Flushing Connector

(1)

(A) (B)

(1)

Instruments & Controls46

The jet pump steering nozzle (1) directs thewater thrust that propels and turns your PWC.Turning the handlebar (2) turns the nozzle.

FRONT / REAR

(1) jet pump steering nozzle(2) handlebar

Controls & Features

Jet Pump Steering Nozzle

(2) (1)

Instruments & Controls 47

Controls & Features

The bow (front) and stern (rear) eyelets areused for mooring your PWC or securing it onits trailer. The stern eyelet (1) can also be used to pull awater skier or, in an emergency situation,may be used for towing another PWC. Thebow eyelet (2) may be used if your PWCrequires towing on water.

The grab rail (3) is used to assist boarding oras a handhold for the spotter for a water skier.The grab rail should not be used for towing,lifting the PWC, or for attaching tie downs.

The seat strap (4) is used to assist boarding.

REAR

(1) stern eyelet (4) seat strap(3) grab rail

FRONT

(2) bow eyelet

Bow & Stern Eyelets

Grab Rail

(1)(3)

(2)

(4)

Seat Strap

Instruments & Controls48

Before Riding

Before each ride, you need to make sure you,your passengers and your Honda are all readyto ride. To help get you prepared, this sectiondiscusses how to evaluate your ridingreadiness, what items you should check onyour PWC, and adjustments to make for yourcomfort, convenience, or safety. This sectionalso includes important information aboutloading.

Are You Ready to Ride? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50Protective Apparel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Operator Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Is Your PWC Ready to Ride? . . . . . . . . . . 54Pre-ride Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Load Limits & Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59Load Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59Loading Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Cargo Compartments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61Glove Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61Front Storage Compartment . . . . . . . . . . 62Fire Extinguisher Compartment . . . . . . . 64

Before Riding 49

Before you ride your PWC for the first time,we urge you to:

• Read this owner’s manual.• Make sure you understand all the

safety messages.• Know how to operate all the controls.• Know local boating and PWC laws.

Before each ride, be sure:• You feel well and are in good physical

and mental condition.• You are wearing a PFD (personal

flotation device) and a wetsuit bottomor clothing that provides equivalentprotection.

• You don’t have any alcohol or drugs inyour system.

Make sure your passengers are ready to ride,too, and that they are wearing properprotective clothing and a PFD.

Check with local authorities to find out whatlocal boating laws apply to the area you’ll beriding in. You’ll want to find out things likewhether it’s legal to operate your PWC in acertain body of water, what the minimumPWC operator age is, and whether or not youneed proof of training in order to operate aPWC. Honda recommends that operators areat least 16 years old before operating thisPWC.

For your safety, we strongly recommend thatyou and your passengers always wear anapproved PFD, eye protection, footwear,gloves, and a wetsuit bottom whenever youride. Although complete protection is notpossible, wearing proper gear can reduce thechance of injury when you ride. Followingare suggestions to help you and yourpassengers choose the proper gear.

Are You Ready To Ride?

Before Riding50

Protective Apparel

Before Riding

Are You Ready To Ride?

PFDsAny time you board your PWC, you shouldwear a Coast Guard-approved Type I, II or IIIPFD. Your PFD is your most important pieceof safety apparel because it offers the bestprotection against drowning.A PFD should fit you properly and securely.A bright colored PFD can make you morenoticeable in the water.

Additional Riding GearIn addition to a PFD, we also recommend:• A wetsuit bottom to protect yourself against

severe internal injuries caused by strongstreams of water from the jet nozzle forcedinto body cavities.

• Eye protection to keep water spray and windout of your eyes.

• Foot protection to give better grip on thefloorboards.

• Neoprene gloves to give better grip on thehandlebar.

51

Not wearing a PFD increases thechance of drowning if you falloverboard.

Be sure you and your passengersalways wear a PFD and otherprotective apparel when you ride.

Are You Ready To Ride?

Before Riding

HelmetsA helmet can offer some head protection in acollision or impact, but it can also causesevere injuries in other situations.

PWC helmets are designed to provide somehead protection, and could reduce your risk ofinjury if you collide with another vessel orobject while riding.

However, if you fall into water while ridingand the helmet catches the water’s surface asyou fall, that helmet could cause choking,severe neck injuries or death.

You should decide for yourself whether or notto wear a helmet when riding your PWC.Think about the conditions and environmentin which you’ll be riding. Will the water becrowded or open? Smooth or choppy?Shallow and rocky or deep? Each time youride, you’ll need to decide if a helmet isnecessary.

52

Are You Ready To Ride?

Before Riding 53

Developing your riding skills is an on-goingprocess. Even if you have ridden otherPWCs, take time to become familiar withhow this PWC works and handles.

Practice riding the PWC in calm water closeto shore to build your skills. Do not ridefarther out until you get accustomed to thePWC’s controls and feel comfortable with theway it handles.

We urge all riders to take a certified courseapproved by the U.S. Coast Guard or U.S.Power Squadron, or by your state. Forboating safety course information in yourarea, call your nearest U.S. Coast GuardAuxiliary, U.S. Power Squadron, Red Cross,or state boating law enforcement office, orcall the Boat/U.S. Foundation CourseHotline, 1-800-336-BOAT. The nationalnumber for the Coast Guard Customer InfoLine is (800) 368-5647.

You can find more boating safety informationon-line:— the U.S.C.G. Office of Boating Safety:

www.uscgboating.org— the U.S. Power Squadron:

www.usps.org

Other riding tips can be found in the PersonalWatercraft Rider’s Handbook booklet thatcame with your PWC.

Operator Training

Before Riding54

Is Your PWC Ready To Ride?

Before each ride it’s important to inspect yourPWC and make sure any problem you find iscorrected. A pre-ride inspection is a must, notonly for safety, but because having a problemon the water can be a major inconvenience.

Before inspection, make sure the lock clip isnot inserted in the engine stop button/switch.Check the following items before putting your PWC in the water.

Check the following items before starting theengine:

Remove both seats and thefront storage box to ventgasoline fumes. (Reinstallboth seats and the frontstorage box before launching.)

Improperly maintaining this personalwatercraft or failing to correct a problembefore riding can cause a crash in whichyou can be seriously hurt or killed.

Always perform a pre-ride inspectionbefore every ride and correct anyproblems.

Pre-ride Inspection

EngineCompartment

Starting the engine without ventilatingthe engine compartment can cause afire or explosion and you or otherscould be seriously injured or killed.

Always vent the engine compartmentbefore starting the engine.

Before Riding 55

Look for water, oil or fuel in the engine compartment.Drain, if necessary.

Look for signs of leaking fuelor oil in the enginecompartment.

Check the fire extinguisher isproperly secured in itscompartment. Check fordamage. Make sure thelocking pin and sealing wireare in place. Check thepressure gauge and expirationdate.

Check that there is nosticking or looseness whenturning the handlebar.

Check the freeplay and adjustif necessary. Pull the throttlelever to make sure it movessmoothly without sticking,and snaps shut automaticallywhen it is released, in allsteering positions.

Check that the lanyard is ingood condition and the lockclip is securely attached.Replace if necessary.

Insert the lock clip in theengine stop button/switch andcheck the fuel gauge.Remove the lock clip. Addfuel, if necessary (page 118).

(cont’d)

Is Your PWC Ready To Ride?

Bilge

Leaks

FireExtinguisher

Steering

Throttle

SafetyLanyard

Fuel Level

Before Riding56

Is Your PWC Ready To Ride?

Pull the reverse lever to makesure it moves smoothly without sticking. Check that the bucket drops over the jet pump steering nozzle.

Inspect for cracks or damage.Remove any marine growth.

Check that the plugs are secure.

Check that nothing is obstructing the intake grate ofthe jet pump, driveshaft, cooling water filter, or impeller. Remove any debris.

Look for anything that appears unusual. Check that all latches (including the seat)are secure.

ReverseSystem

Hull

Bilge DrainPlugs

Jet PumpWater Intake

Loose Parts,Latches

Is Your PWC Ready To Ride?

Before Riding

Check these items which require starting andflushing the engine on shore (see FlushingProcedure, page 150. If necessary, theseprocedures may be performed with yourPWC on calm water):

Insert the lock clip in the engine stop switch.Push the start button after ventilating the engine compartment.Stop the engine by pushing the engine stop button. Start the engine again and stop it by removing the lock clip.

Check the water comes outfrom the cooling waterbypass outlet.

Check the level and add oil ifneeded (page 123).

Check that the OTSactivates properly (page 155).

57

Engine Start& Stop

EngineCoolingSystem

Engine Oil

Off-throttleSteeringSystem (OTS)

Before Riding58

Is Your PWC Ready To Ride?

If you are carrying passengers or cargo, alsocheck the following:

Load Limits Make sure you do not exceedthe load limits (page 59).

Cargo Check that all cargo issecured in compartments.

If you will be towing a water skier, also checkthe following:

• The loop end of the tow rope is properlysecured to the stern eyelet.

• The rest of tow rope is properly secured soit does not get dragged behind the craft ordrawn into the jet pump water intake whileriding out to the water skiing area.

Remember, be sure to take care of anyproblem you find, or have your Honda PWCdealer correct it before you ride.

Before Riding 59

Load Limits & Guidelines

Your PWC has been designed to carry youand up to two passengers. When you carrypassengers, you may feel some differenceduring acceleration, turning and slowing. Butso long as you keep your PWC well-maintained, you can safely carry loads withinthe given limits and guidelines.

However, exceeding the weight limit canseriously impair your PWC’s handling andstability. Non-Honda accessories, impropermodifications, and poor maintenance can alsoreduce your safety margin.

Following are the load limits for your PWC:

maximum number of people onboard:3 persons

maximum weight capacity:524 lbs (238 kg)includes the weight of the operator, allpassengers, all cargo.

maximum storage compartment weights:Front storage compartment = 22 lbs (10 kg)Glove box= 6.6 lbs (3 kg)

Load Limits

Before Riding60

Load Limits & Guidelines

Your PWC is primarily intended fortransporting you and one or two passengers.

Do not carry more cargo than the maximumweight capacity allows.

Improperly loading your PWC can affect itsstability and handling.

Follow these guidelines whenever you carrypassengers or cargo:• Do not place cargo on the seat, deck, or any

where else other than the storagecompartment or a glove box.

• Do not attach any items to the handlebar.

Loading Guidelines

Overloading or improper loading canmake the personal watercraft difficultto control and could result in anaccident.

Follow all load limits and otherloading guidelines in this manual.

Before Riding 61

Cargo Compartments

The glove box (1) is used for storing theowner’s manual and small, light articles.Don’t store breakable objects in thiscompartment.

To open, turn the knob (2) counterclockwiseand raise the glove box lid (3).

To close the glove box, lower the glove boxlid and turn the knob clockwise.

Cargo in the glove box should not exceed:6.6 lbs (3 kg)

If the compartment is flooded, remove therubber grommet (4) on the bottom of thecompartment to drain the water.

FRONT

(1) glove box(2) knob(3) glove box lid(4) rubber grommet

Glove Box(3)

(2)

(1)(4)

Before Riding62

Cargo Compartments

The front storage compartment may be usedto store safety equipment such as towingrope, signal flares, or other small articles.Don’t store breakable objects in thiscompartment.

Fuel and other flammable liquids shouldnever be stored in this compartment.

Front Storage Compartment

Storing fuel in the front storagecompartment can cause a fire orexplosion that can result in injury ordeath.

Do not store fuel or other flammableliquids in this unventilatedcompartment.

Before Riding 63

Cargo Compartments

To open the front storage compartment (1),pull the hood latch (2) and lift the hood (3).

To close the storage compartment, lower thehood. Check that the latch is secure.

Cargo in the front storage compartmentshould not exceed:

22 lbs (10 kg)

If the compartment is flooded, remove therubber grommet (4) on the bottom of thecompartment to drain the water.

FRONT

(1) front storage compartment(2) hood latch(3) hood(4) rubber grommet

(3)

(1)

(2)

(4)

Before Riding64

Cargo Compartments

The fire extinguisher compartment (1) islocated under the rear seat (page 115).

Your PWC is classified as a Class A inboardboat. The Coast Guard requires that you carrya B-1 classification fire extinguisher. Manylocal and state boating laws also requre a U.S.Coast Guard-approved fire extinguisher.

Your PWC is not delivered with a fireextinguisher as standard equipment. To obtaina suitable fire extinguisher, consult yourHonda PWC dealer, a marine supply store ora fire extinguisher manufacturer in your area.

To open the lid (2), turn it counterclockwiseuntil the index mark (3) on the lid aligns withthe OPEN position.

To close, set the mark at OPEN and turn thelid clockwise to CLOSE position.

UNDER REAR SEAT

(1) fire extinguisher compartment(2) lid(3) index mark

Fire Extinguisher Compartment

(3)

(1)

(2)

OPEN CLOSE

Basic Operation & Riding

Basic Operation & Riding

This section gives basic riding instructions,including how to start and stop your engine,and how to use the throttle. It also providesnavigation rules and important informationon riding with passengers or cargo.

To protect your new engine and enjoyoptimum performance and service life, referto Break-in Guidelines (page 205).

Safe Riding Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66PWC Propulsion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67Navigation Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68Starting & Stopping the Engine . . . . . . . . . 72

Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72Starting Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73Flooded Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75How to Stop the Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Launching & Boarding Your PWC . . . . . . 78Launching from a Ramp . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78Boarding from a Dock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79Boarding in Shallow Water . . . . . . . . . . . 80Boarding in Deep Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81Boarding with Passengers . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Your First Ride . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85Turning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Off-Throttle Steering (OTS) . . . . . . . . . . 88Reverse Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89Stopping/Docking/Beaching . . . . . . . . . . . 91Riding with Passengers or Cargo . . . . . . . . 93Towing a Water Skier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94Post-Ride Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

65

Safe Riding Precautions

Basic Operation & Riding

Before riding your PWC for the first time,please review the PWC Safety sectionbeginning on page 1, and the Before Ridingsection beginning on page 49.

Even if you have ridden other PWCs, taketime to become familiar with how your PWCworks and handles. Practice in a safe area,away from boats and swimmers, until youbuild your skills and get accustomed to thePWC’s size and handling.

Your PWC is not equipped with lights.Do not ride at night.

66

PWC Propulsion

Basic Operation & Riding

Your PWC is water-jet propelled. The engineis connected to a driveshaft that rotates animpeller, located within the jet pump housingunderneath the PWC. Water, drawn throughthe intake grate by the spinning impeller,reaches a venturi in the jet pump steeringnozzle, which accelerates its flow to increasethrust. Because of this direct-drive design,when the engine is on, your PWC will moveslowly.

Pulling the throttle lever increases thrustwhich increases speed. Turning the handlebarturns the jet pump steering nozzle and allowsyou to turn.Releasing pressure on the throttle lever slowsthe PWC. Without the engine running andwithout the throttle, there is no propulsionand you cannot steer. Your PWC does nothave brakes.

67

Basic Operation & Riding68

Navigation Rules

Your PWC is classified as a Class A inboardboat. Because of this, you need to know andobey the rules of the waterway. They’re liketraffic rules, and establish who has the rightof way on the water. These rules are usedinternationally and are enforced by the U.S.Coast Guard and other local agencies.

The information in this section provides thebasic rules. We highly recommend that youget more information about navigation fromyour state when you register your personalwatercraft. Take a boat handling andseamanship course from the Coast GuardAuxiliary, the U. S. Power Squadron, or avolunteer organization. These groups canprovide you with detailed training onnavigation rules and other importantinformation.

Basic Operation & Riding 69

Navigation Rules

On to the basics: When two boats are on thewater, one boat has the right-of-way and iscalled the “stand-on” vessel; the other boatmust yield or give way and is called the“give-way” vessel.

In the illustration, you are the larger PWC inthe center. You must yield to any vesselshown in the white area (you are the give-way vessel). Any vessels in the shaded areamust yield to you (you are the stand-onvessel). If you meet head on, you must bothgive way.

The illustrations on the following pages showstand-on and give-way responsibilities.

Basic Operation & Riding70

Navigation Rules

Meeting: If you are approaching anothervessel head-on and are close enough to riskcollision, neither of you has the right of way.Both of you should change course to avoid acollision. Keep the other vessel to your left(port) side. This rule does not apply if both ofyou will clear of one another if you continueon your set course and speed.

Crossing: If you and another vessel arecrossing paths close enough to risk collision,and the other vessel is on your right(starboard), you should yield or stay out ofthe way. If the other vessel is on your left(port) side, you must maintain your courseand speed, as long as the other vessel givesyou the right of way as it should.

Basic Operation & Riding 71

Navigation Rules

Overtaking or Passing: If you are passinganother vessel, you are the give-way vessel.The other vessel is expected to maintain itscourse and speed. You must stay out of itsway until you are clear of it. If another vesselis passing you, you should maintain yourcourse and speed so that the other vessel cansteer around you.

Non-motorized Vessels: Non-motorizedvessels such as sailboats and canoes alwayshave the right of way except:

1) When the sailing vessel is overtaking apower vessel, the power vessel has theright of way.

2) Sailing vessels should keep clear of fishingvessels.

3) In a narrow channel, non-motorizedvessels cannot interfere with the safepassage of a power vessel.

Starting & Stopping the Engine

Basic Operation & Riding

Always follow the proper starting proceduredescribed below.

For your safety, avoid starting or operatingthe engine in an enclosed area such as agarage. Your PWC’s exhaust containspoisonous carbon monoxide gas which cancollect rapidly in an enclosed area and causeillness or death. Running the engine whenyour PWC is not in the water can alsodamage the engine.

Before starting, confirm the following:• Make sure your PWC is in at least 3 feet (90

cm) of water that is free of debris andweeds.

• Push up and down on the rear of your PWCseveral times to flush out any sand.

• Check that there are no swimmers, boats, orobstacles in the area.

72

Preparation

3 feet (90 cm)

Starting & Stopping the Engine

Basic Operation & Riding

1. Board your PWC, place your feet on thefootboard. Make sure all passengers are onboard and no one is behind the PWC.

(cont’d)

73

Starting Procedure

When the engine is running, longhair, PFD straps or loose clothingcan be sucked into the intake grateand become entangled in theimpeller. A person can be heldunder the water and drown.

• Do not start the engine if anyoneis in the water near the personalwatercraft.

• Make sure people stay away fromthe intake grate when the engineis running.

WARNING

2. Attach the safety lanyard (1) to your left wrist.

3. Insert the lock clip (2) in the engine stopbutton/switch (3).Be sure the lanyard is not caught or tangledon anything,

4. Punch in your ID number to cancel the IDlock system (page 37), if necessary.

5. Keep the throttle closed to preventunexpected movement of the PWC, thenpush the start button.

Basic Operation & Riding74

Starting & Stopping the Engine

(1) (3) (2)

(1) safety lanyard (3) engine stop button/switch(2) lock clip (4) start button

(4)

6. Immediately after the engine starts, releasethe engine start button. The jet pump willbe producing thrust and the PWC willmove slowly.

7. If the engine does not start within 5seconds, release the start button and wait30 seconds before trying again, to avoiddischarging the battery or damaging thestarter motor.

The starter motor can operate while thedisplay is indicated (10 seconds) even ifthe lock clip is pulled out from the enginestop button/switch.

If the engine fails to start after repeatedattempts, it may be flooded with excess fuel.To clear a flooded engine:

1. Open the throttle fully.2. Press the start button for 5 seconds.3. Follow the normal starting procedure.4. If the engine starts, then open the throttle

slightly if idling is unstable.If the engine does not start, wait 10seconds, then follow steps 1 – 3 again.

If the engine still won’t start, refer to If YourEngine Quits or Won’t Start, page 179.

Starting & Stopping the Engine

Basic Operation & Riding 75

Flooded Engine

Starting & Stopping the Engine

Basic Operation & Riding

To stop the engine, be sure there is at least 3feet (90 cm) of water so that debris or weedscan’t be drawn into the water inlet system.

Starting or stopping the engine in less thanthree feet of water can damage the jet pump ifdebris or weeds are drawn in.

Release the throttle lever and turn off theengine when you no longer need jet thrust tomaintain directional control.

76

How to Stop the Engine

3 feet (90 cm)

NOTICE

Basic Operation & Riding 77

Wait until the engine is idling, then press theengine stop button/switch (1). (Once theengine stops, you will have no directionalcontrol.)

If you are leaving the PWC, activate the IDlock system, remove the lock clip (2) fromthe engine stop button/switch and take thesafety lanyard with you.

(1) engine stop button/switch (2) lock clip

Starting & Stopping the Engine

(2)

(1)

Basic Operation & Riding78

Launching & Boarding Your PWC

How you board your PWC is affected bywater depth and whether or not you plan tocarry a passenger or two. Once you (and anypassengers) are on board, check that yourpath is clear of other boats, swimmers, orobstacles. Slowly increase throttle as youhead toward open water.

1. Complete the pre-ride inspection (page54).

2. Check that the ramp is suitable for bothyour PWC trailer and your tow vehicle,and that the launch area is clear of peopleand other boats.

3. Attach a bow line to your PWC.4. Release the tie downs.5. Back your trailer into the water until the

rear of the hull begins to lift.6. Unlock the winch.7. Slowly push your PWC into the water and

remove the bow line.8. Slowly move your PWC to a docking area

and moor it securely.9. Move your tow vehicle away from the

ramp.

Launching from a Ramp

Basic Operation & Riding 79

1. Place one foot on the footboard nearest thedock.

2. Hold the handlebar.3. Transfer your weight to balance the PWC

as you place your other foot on thefootboard.

4. Start the engine (page 73).5. Push your PWC away from the dock or

apply slight throttle and steer at a slightangle away from the dock until the rear ofyour PWC clears.

Launching & Boarding Your PWC

Boarding from a Dock

Basic Operation & Riding80

Launching & Boarding Your PWC

1. Make sure the engine is off and your PWCis in at least 3 feet (90 cm) of water.

Starting or stopping the engine in less thanthree feet of water can damage the jet pump ifdebris or weeds are drawn in.

2. Board from the rear. Balance your PWC asyou climb aboard.

Boarding in Shallow Water

NOTICE

Basic Operation & Riding 81

Launching & Boarding Your PWC

Practice in shallow water before attempting toboard in deeper water.Make sure the engine is off.

1. Move to the rear of the PWC.

2. Grasp the grab rail and pull yourself upuntil you can place one knee on the reardeck.

3. Bring your other knee onto the rear deck.

(cont’d)

Boarding in Deep Water

Basic Operation & Riding82

Launching & Boarding Your PWC

4. Move forward, being careful to balanceyour PWC.

5. When possible, grasp the handlebar forsupport.

6. Place your feet on the footboards.7. Sit on the seat.

For more information on riding withpassengers, see page 93.

1. The passengers should hold the PWC tosteady it as the operator climbs on.

2. The operator should get in position on theseat, but not start the engine.

3. One passenger should move to the rear ofthe PWC.

(cont’d)

Basic Operation & Riding 83

Launching & Boarding Your PWC

Boarding with Passengers

WARNING

If a passenger falls off the back of apersonal watercraft after the operatoropens the throttle, water can beforced into lower body cavities,causing severe internal injuries.

• Do not start the engine until allpassengers are seated properlyand holding on.

• All riders should wear a wet suitbottom or equivalent.

Basic Operation & Riding84

Launching & Boarding Your PWC

4. The operator should slide forward to givethe passenger more space.

5. The passenger should grasp the grab railand climb on in the same manner as theoperator, first one knee, then the other.

6. Both the operator and the passenger shouldconcentrate on balancing the PWC as thenext passenger boards.

7. Once the second passenger is seated, theoperator should check that each passengeris holding onto the waist of the person infront of them and have placed both feet onthe footboards.

8. The operator is now ready to start theengine.

Basic Operation & Riding 85

Your First Ride

Check your path is clear of other boats,swimmers, or other obstacles in the water.

We recommend use of the limit mode untilthe PWC operator is familiar with operatingthe PWC.

Get familiar with operating the throttle. To gofaster, pull the throttle lever toward you. Togo slower, reduce pressure on the lever toallow it to move away from you. Graduallyincrease throttle to see how speed affects yourdirectional control, then try varying thespeed.

Try turning gradually. Pay attention to theconnection between throttle input and the useof the handlebar. Remember, steering with thehandlebar will not turn the PWC unless youare applying some throttle.

Get acquainted with the handling of yourPWC.

Basic Operation & Riding86

Turning

Turning your PWC requires two actions:• Turning the handlebar (in the direction you

want to go).• Using the throttle lever (to maintain thrust).

Your PWC will not turn if you are notapplying some throttle. Jet thrust is necessaryto change your direction.

Before turning, always check to make sureyou aren’t turning into another PWC’s path.

throttle ONthrottle OFF

Basic Operation & Riding 87

Turning

Your PWC requires thrust to turn, so youmust pull on the throttle lever while you turnthe handlebar. The more you pull on thethrottle lever, the more thrust your PWC willhave and the sharper your turns will be.

To turn at higher speeds, you should firstreduce speed by gently releasing the throttle alittle. Too sharp a turn at high speed maycause the PWC to slide sideways or spin andthrow off the operator and passengers.

If you are heading toward an obstacle youwant to avoid — do not release the throttlelever. Keep the throttle on and steer awayfrom the object.

Basic Operation & Riding88

Turning

Your PWC is equipped with an Off-Throttle Steering (OTS) System.

At cruising speeds and faster, your PWC’sOTS will activate if you let go of thethrottle and turn the handlebar all the wayto the left or right. OTS will provide someturning thrust but you can turn sharper ifyou apply the throttle. OTS does not workwhen the engine is off.

For the best steering and turningperformance, apply throttle while turningthe handlebar.

Off-Throttle Steering (OTS)

Reverse Operation

Basic Operation & Riding

Before selecting reverse, look around andbehind you, and slow your PWC to idlespeed.

89

Shifting to reverse at higher forwardspeeds may cause abruptdeceleration. You and yourpassengers could be thrownforward or off of the personalwatercraft and be seriously injured.

Shift to reverse only while theengine is idling or off.

WARNING

Basic Operation & Riding90

Reverse Operation

1. Squeeze the trigger and pull the reverselever toward you. This drops the reversebucket over the jet pump steering nozzle,diverting the thrust forward to push thePWC backward (page 43).

2. Turn the handlebar opposite the directionyou want. (To steer the rear of your PWCto the left, turn the handlebar to the right.To steer to the right, turn the handlebar tothe left.)

3. Carefully apply throttle to maintaincontrol.

4. To return to normal operation, releasethrottle pressure, wait for your PWC toslow to idle speed, then push the leverforward.

Basic Operation & Riding 91

Stopping/Docking/Beaching

Your PWC has no brakes. Please keep this inmind whenever you are planning to stop.

The drag of the water will slow it to a stopafter the throttle is closed. Running at fullspeed, your PWC may require up to 130yards (120 m) to stop after the throttle isreleased.

130 yards (120 m)

Basic Operation & Riding92

Stopping/Docking/Beaching

Stop Your PWC• Check that there are no other boats,

swimmers, or obstacles in your path.• Slow the PWC by releasing the throttle

lever as you approach the stopping area.

Starting or stopping the engine in less thanthree feet of water can damage the jet pump ifdebris or weeds are drawn in.

Dock Your PWC• With the engine idling, ride to the stopping

area. Keep your engine running so you havejet thrust to maneuver. Open the throttleslightly in case you need power to steeraway from an obstacle.

You and your passengers should keep all feet,arms, and hands inside the PWC as itapproaches a dock or another object in the water.

• Push the engine stop button or pull the lockclip and moor your PWC to the docksecurely.

Do not run your PWC onto a beach with theengine running. Sand or other debris canenter the jet pump and the hull may bedamaged. Stop the engine with at least threefeet of water under the hull.

Beach Your PWC• Get off your PWC, guide it in, and pull it

up on the beach.

NOTICE

Your PWC is designed to carry you and up totwo passengers. Whenever you addpassengers or cargo, you must be careful notto exceed the total load limits (Load Limits,page 59). Make sure your cargo is properlysecured (Loading Guidelines, page 60).

Be aware that carrying passengers or heavycargo can affect acceleration, slowing, andhandling.

Do not carry passengers until you becomecomfortable operating your PWC by yourself.

Remember, you are responsible for the safetyof your passengers. Be sure they are wearingPFDs and other protective apparel (page 50),and are familiar with all safety information.

Avoid giving a ride to any passenger whosefeet do not reach the footboards.

Tell your passengers to hold on firmly to theperson in front of them, lean with you in theturns, and keep their feet on the footboards atall times, even when the PWC is stopped andidling. The operator should let the passengersknow if a sudden maneuver is planned.

If a passenger falls off the back of apersonal watercraft after the operatoropens the throttle, water can beforced into lower body cavities,causing severe internal injuries.

• Do not start the engine until allpassengers are seated properlyand holding on.

• All riders should wear a wet suitbottom or equivalent.

Basic Operation & Riding 93

Riding with Passengers or Cargo

WARNING

Basic Operation & Riding94

Your PWC can be used to tow a single waterskier. If you will be towing a skier, you mustalso have a passenger onboard to act as aspotter (1) to communicate between the skier(2) and the operator (3).

Some states do not allow PWCs to tow waterskiers. Other states have special requirementsfor towing skiers. Check your local and stateregulations.

If it is legal to tow a water skier, follow theguidelines listed here.

(1) spotter (3) operator(2) skier

Towing a Water Skier

(3) (1) (2)

Towing a skier, another personalwatercraft, or other heavy itemscan make the personal watercraftdifficult to control and could result inan accident.

Follow the towing instructions in thismanual.

WARNING

Basic Operation & Riding 95

Towing a Water Skier

Consider the following recommendationswhen you use your PWC for water skiing.

• Store the water skiing tow rope and ‘‘skierdown” flag in the front storagecompartment. Both are commerciallyavailable at marine shops.

• Before launching, the operator, spotter andskier get familiar with each other’s dutiesand skill levels and decide on signals forspeed and direction.

• The skier tells the operator what is planned(figure eights, slaloms, etc.) and requeststhe desired tow speed. The speed shoulddepend on the skier’s skill level and thetype of ski equipment (single ski, doubleski, wakeboard, etc.).

Basic Operation & Riding96

Post-ride Maintenance

After you finish riding your PWC, alwaysperform post-ride maintenance to keep yourPWC in good operating condition.

1. Remove your PWC from the water.2. Purge the exhaust system of excess water

by starting the engine and, while checkingthe tachometer, repeatedly rev the engineup to no more than 4,000 rpm for less than15 seconds.• Engine rpm can increase rapidly when

the watercraft is out of water.

Operating the engine out of water at highrpm or for longer than 15 seconds at a timemay cause severe engine and/or exhaustsystem damage.

3. Wash the hull, deck, handlebar, andintake/propulsion system with fresh water.

4. Flush the cooling system with fresh water(page 150).

5. Remove the lock clip from the engine stopbutton/switch.

NOTICE

Basic Operation & Riding 97

6. Use fresh water to rinse out the enginecompartment. Avoid spraying water on theelectrical components.

High pressure water (or air) can damagecertain parts of your personal watercraft.

7. Remove the bilge drain plugs to drain anywater. Raise the bow (front) of your PWCabout 1 foot to allow complete draining.

8. Wipe the engine compartment dry withdry, clean rags.

9. Confirm the engine and the exhaustsystem is cool, then spray a water-displacement corrosion-proof lubricant(without Teflon or molybdenum additives,such as CRC 6-56 or equivalent) on theengine, electrical wiring and jet pumpassembly.

If you won’t be riding for more than oneweek, perform the following:10.Spray a water-displacement corrosion-

proof lubricant (without Teflon ormolybdenum additives, such as CRC 6-56or an equivalent) into the throttle body(pages 136-137).

11.ARX1200T3 only: Spray a water-displacement corrosion-proof lubricant(without Teflon or molybdenum additivessuch as CRC 6-56 or equivalent) on theoutside of the turbocharger (especially thewastegate link) (page 140).

12.Keep your PWC as level as possible andplace a cover over it for storage. Forprolonged storage, refer to Storing YourHonda on page 168.

Post-ride Maintenance

NOTICE

Basic Operation & Riding98

Servicing Your Honda 99

Servicing Your Honda

To help keep your PWC in good shape, thissection includes a Maintenance Schedule forrequired service, a list of periodic checks youshould perform at least once a month, andstep-by-step instructions for specificmaintenance tasks.

You’ll also find important safety precautions,information on fuels and oils, and tips forkeeping your Honda looking great.

For information about the exhaust emissionrequirements of the U.S. EnvironmentalProtection Agency (EPA) and the CaliforniaAir Resources Board (CARB), see page 206.

For information about replacing fuses, seepage 184.

Maintenance, replacement, or repair ofemission control devices and systems maybe performed by any engine repairestablishment or individual, using partsthat are “certified” to EPA standards.

Before You Service Your HondaThe Importance of Maintenance . . . . . . . 102Maintenance Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Important Safety Precautions . . . . . . . . 104Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105Maintenance Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

(cont’d)

Servicing Your Honda100

Servicing Your Honda

Service PreparationsComponent Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110Tool Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113Owner’s Manual Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114Seat Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Service ProceduresFluids, Filters & LubricantsFuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117Engine Oil & Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120Air Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132Lubrication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

EngineThrottle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141Engine Idle Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144Spark Plugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145Engine Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149

HullBilge Drain System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153

Steering & Propulsion SystemOff-throttle Steering System . . . . . . . . . . 155

ElectricalBattery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157

Appearance Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162

Servicing Your Honda 101

Servicing Your Honda

The following table summarizes the three types of inspections and servicing recommendations foryour PWC. Both the pre-ride inspection and the scheduled maintenance at the recommendedintervals are necessary to assure safe and dependable performance.

* unless you have the proper tools and service data and are mechanically qualified

Type of Inspection/Service Refer to page : 54 96105

When Performed Who Performsyouyouyour Honda PWC dealer*

before every rideafter every rideinterval on schedule

Pre-ride InspectionPost-ride MaintenanceMaintenance Schedule

Servicing Your Honda102

The Importance of Maintenance

Keeping your PWC well-maintained isabsolutely essential to your safety. It’s also asgood way to protect your investment, getmaximum performance, avoid breakdowns,and have more fun. A properly maintainedPWC will also help to reduce air and waterpollution.

Remember, proper maintenance is theowner’s responsibility. Be sure to inspectyour PWC before each ride, service it afterevery ride, and follow the MaintenanceSchedule in this section.

If your PWC submerges or is involved in acrash, be sure your Honda PWC dealerinspects all major parts, even if you are ableto make some repairs.

Improperly maintaining thispersonal watercraft or failing tocorrect a problem before you ridecan cause a crash in which you canbe seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the inspection andmaintenance recommendations andschedules in this owner’s manual.

WARNING

Servicing Your Honda 103

Maintenance Safety

This section includes instructions on how toperform some important maintenance tasks. Ifyou have basic mechanical skills, you canperform many of these tasks with the toolsprovided with your PWC.

Other tasks that are more difficult and requirespecial tools are best performed byprofessionals.

Some of the most important safetyprecautions follow. However, we cannot warnyou of every conceivable hazard that canarise in performing maintenance. Only youcan decide whether or not you shouldperform a given task.

Failure to properly followmaintenance instructions andprecautions can cause you to beseriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the procedures andprecautions in this owner's manual.

WARNING

Servicing Your Honda104

Maintenance Safety

• Make sure the engine is off and the lock clipis removed from the engine stopbutton/switch before you begin anymaintenance or repairs. This will helpeliminate several potential hazards:

Carbon monoxide poisoning from engineexhaust. Be sure there is adequateventilation whenever you operate theengine.

Burns from hot personal watercraftparts. Let the engine and exhaust systemcool before touching.

Injury from moving parts. Do not run theengine unless instructed to do so.

• Read the instructions before you begin, andmake sure you have the tools and skillsrequired.

• To support your PWC, place it on anappropriate stand or trailer.

• To reduce the possibility of a fire orexplosion, be careful when working aroundgasoline. Use only non-flammable solvent,not gasoline, to clean parts. Keep cigarettes,sparks, and flames away from all fuel-related parts.

Remember that your Honda PWC dealerknows your PWC best and is fully equippedto maintain and repair it. To ensure the bestquality and reliability, use only new genuineHonda parts or their equivalents for repairand replacement. If you have the tools andskills required for additional maintenancejobs, you can purchase an official HondaService Manual (page 216).

Important Safety Precautions

Servicing Your Honda 105

Maintenance Schedule

The required Maintenance Schedule thatfollows specifies how often you should haveyour PWC serviced, and what things needattention. It is essential to have your PWCserviced as scheduled to maintain safe,dependable performance and proper emissioncontrol.

The service intervals in this MaintenanceSchedule are based on average ridingconditions. Some items will need morefrequent service if you ride in salt water or atfull throttle. Consult your Honda PWC dealerfor recommendations applicable to yourindividual needs and use.

Some items in the Maintenance Schedule canbe performed with basic mechanical skillsand hand tools. Procedures for these items areprovided in this manual. Other items involvemore extensive procedures and may requirespecial training, tools, and equipment. Werecommend that you have your Honda PWCdealer perform these tasks unless you haveadvanced mechanical skills and the requiredtools and equipment. Procedures for suchitems in this schedule are provided in anofficial Honda Service Manual available forpurchase (page 216).

Servicing Your Honda106

Maintenance Schedule

If you do not feel capable of performing agiven task or need assistance, remember thatyour Honda PWC dealer knows your PWCbest and is fully equipped to maintain andrepair it. If you decide to do your ownmaintenance, use only genuine Honda partsor their equivalents for repair or replacementto ensure the best quality and reliability.

Perform the pre-ride inspection (page 54) andowner maintenance (page 107) at eachscheduled maintenance period.

Each item on the maintenance schedulerequires some mechanical knowledge.Certain items (particularly those marked *and **) may require more technicalinformation and tools. Consult your HondaPWC dealer.

* Should be serviced by your Honda PWCdealer, unless you have the proper toolsand service data and are mechanicallyqualified. Refer to the official HondaService Manual (page 216).

** In the interest of safety, we recommendthese items be serviced only by yourHonda PWC dealer.

12

200

—

10

6

100

—

—

136-137

145

—

—

120

127

144

149

Servicing Your Honda 107

Maintenance Schedule

* Should be serviced by your Honda PWC dealer, unless you have the proper tools and service data and are mechanically qualified. Refer to the official

Honda Service Manual (page 216).

** In the interest of safety, we recommend these items be serviced only by your Honda PWC dealer.

NOTE: • Some items will need more frequent service if you ride in salt water or at full throttle. Consult your Honda PWC dealer for recommendations

applicable to your individual needs and use.

FUEL TANK/FUEL LINE Inspect

THROTTLE CABLE Inspect/Lubricate

THROTTLE BODY Inspect/Lubricate

SPARK PLUGS Inspect/Replace

VALVE CLEARANCE Inspect/Adjust

AIR FILTER Replace

ENGINE OIL Replace

ENGINE OIL FILTER Replace

ENGINE IDLE SPEED Adjust

COOLING SYSTEM Inspect

**

***

*

MONTH

HOURS

EM

ISSION

RE

LA

TE

D IT

EM

S

ITEMS

FREQUENCYWHICHEVERCOMES FIRST

INITIALMAINTENANCE

REGULARMAINTENANCE INTERVAL

EVERY 200 hours

Referto

page

EVERY 50 hours or every year

—

—

140

—

—

153

153

—

—

—

—

Servicing Your Honda108

Maintenance Schedule

* Should be serviced by your Honda PWC dealer, unless you have the proper tools and service data and are mechanically qualified. Refer to the official Honda

Service Manual (page 216).

** In the interest of safety, we recommend these items be serviced only by your Honda PWC dealer.

NOTE: • Some items will need more frequent service if you ride in salt water or at full throttle. Consult your Honda PWC dealer for recommendations

applicable to your individual needs and use.

—

10

6

100

12

200

IMPELLER Inspect

COUPLING RUBBER Inspect

TURBO Lubricate

ANODE Turbo Inspect/Replace

Exhaust Manifold, Oil Inspect/ReplaceCooler and Cylinder Head

BILGE STRAINER Clean

DRAIN PLUG Inspect/Replace

BEARING HOUSING Grease/Inspection

REVERSE SYSTEM Inspect/Adjust/Lubricate

NUTS, BOLTS, FASTENERS Inspect

STEERING SYSTEM Inspect/Adjust/Lubricate

*

*

*****

MONTH

HOURS

ARX1200T3

ARX1200T3

NO

N-EM

ISSION

RELATED

ITEMS

WHICHEVERCOMES FIRST

INITIALMAINTENANCE

REGULARMAINTENANCE INTERVAL Refer

topageITEMS

FREQUENCY

EVERY 400 hours

Servicing Your Honda 109

Maintenance Record

Keeping an accurate maintenance record will help ensure that your PWC is properly maintained.Retain detailed receipts to verify the maintenance was performed. If the personal watercraft is sold,these receipts should be transferred with the personal watercraft to the new owner.

Make sure whoever performs the maintenance completes this record. All scheduled maintenance,including the 10 hours initial maintenance, is considered a normal owner operating cost and will becharged for by your dealer. Use the space under Notes to record anything you want to remindyourself about or mention to your dealer.

Hourmeter Date Performed By: Notes

100 or 6

200 or 12

300 or 18

400 or 24

500 or 30

700 or 42

800 or 48

900 or 54

1000 or 60

600 or 36

Hours

or Months

Servicing Your Honda110

Component Locations

throttlefuel tank front seat rear seat tool kitcompartment

owner’s manualstorage bag

fuel fill cap handlebar reverse lever

Servicing Your Honda 111

Component Locations

oil filler cap/dipstick bilge strainer fuse box

(FRONT) (REAR)

spark plugs

maintenancejoint

oil drainpipe cap

throttle adjuster battery

air filter

oil filterair box drain tube

Servicing Your Honda112

Component Locations

reverse bucket

bilge drain plugs

flushing connector

Servicing Your Honda 113

Tool Kit

The tool kit is stored under the rear seat (page115). Some basic repairs, minor adjustments,and parts replacement can be performed withthe tools contained in the kit.

UNDER REAR SEAT

(1) tool kit (2) tool kit compartment

• 10 x 12 mm open end wrench• 14 x 17 mm open end wrench• 5 mm hex wrench• standard/Phillips screwdriver• screwdriver handle• pliers• spark plug wrench• tool bag• water resistant bag

(1)

(2)

Servicing Your Honda114

Owner's Manual Storage

Your PWC provides storage for the owner’smanual so you’ll have it with you for easyreference. Store your owner’s manual (andother documents) in the plastic storage bag(1) in the glove box (2) (page 61).

Be careful not to flood this area whenwashing your PWC.

FRONT

(1) owner’s manual storage bag(2) glove box

(1)

(2)

Servicing Your Honda 115

Refer to Safety Precautions on page 104.

The seat must be removed for battery, fuse,and engine maintenance, and for access to thefire extinguisher.

Rear seat removal

(1) rear seat latch (6) rear seat prongs(2) rear seat

1. Release the rear seat latch (1).2. Pull the rear seat (2) back and up.

Front seat removal

(3) front seat latch (5) front seat prong(4) front seat

3. Release the front seat latch (3).4. Pull the front seat (4) back and up.

Seat Removal

(1)

(2)

(6)

(4)

(5) (3)

Servicing Your Honda116

Seat Removal

Place the removed seats as shown infollowing illustration.

Installation1. Position the front seat prong (5) and press

on the front seat until the latch closes.2. Position the rear seat prongs (6) and press

on the rear seat until the latch closes.3. Make sure to tighten the latches securely.

Servicing Your Honda 117

Fuel

Refer to Safety Precautions on page 104.

This marine engine is certified to operate onpremium unleaded gasoline. Unleadedgasoline produces fewer engine and sparkplug deposits and extends exhaust systemlife.

Your engine is designed to use gasoline thathas a pump octane number of 91 or higher.Gasoline pumps at service stations normallydisplay the pump octane number.

If you are unable to find premium unleadedgasoline, you may substitute an unleadedregular gasoline (minimum unleaded gasoline86 pump octane or higher). However, keepthe engine under 5,000 rpm, and substitute tounleaded premium gasoline as soon aspossible.

For information on the use of oxygenatedfuels, see page 212.

Never use stale or contaminated gasoline.Avoid getting dirt, dust, or water in the fueltank.

unleaded

91 (or higher)

Type

Pump Octane

Number

Fuel Recommendation

Servicing Your Honda118

Fuel tank capacity:16.64 US gal (63.0R)

The tank should be refilled as soon aspossible after the low fuel indicator andWARNING lamp flash and the beepersounds.

Refer to Safety Precautions on page 104.

(1) front hood (3) fuel fill cap(2) front storage box

1. Pull on the front hood latch and lift thefront hood (1).

Fuel

Refueling ProcedureFuel Capacity

(1)(2)

(3)

Servicing Your Honda 119

2. Remove the front storage box (2).3. Turn the fuel fill cap (3) counterclockwise

to remove it.4. Add fuel until you see the level reach the

filler tube neck (4).5. Stop refueling when fuel comes through

the hole (5) in the filler neck.

6. After refueling, install the fuel fill cap andturn it clockwise until it clicks.

7. Reinstall the front storage box and closethe front hood, then check the latch issecure.

Fuel

Gasoline is highly flammable andexplosive. You can be burned orseriously injured when handling fuel.

• Stop the engine and keep heat,sparks and flame away.

• Handle fuel only outdoors.• Wipe up spills immediately.

WARNING

(4) filler tube neck (5) hole

(4)

(5)

Servicing Your Honda120

Engine Oil & Filter

Engine oil quality is a major factor thataffects both the performance and the servicelife of the engine.

Using the proper oil (page 121) and filter, andregularly checking, adding, and changing oilwill help extend your engine’s life. Even thebest oil wears out. Changing oil helps get ridof dirt and deposits in the engine. Operatingthe engine with old or dirty oil can damageyour engine. Running the engine withinsufficient oil can cause serious damage tothe engine.

Change the engine oil as specified in themaintenance schedule on page 107.

Servicing Your Honda 121

Engine Oil & Filter

Oil Recommendation

suggested oil＊� Pro Honda GN4,HP4 (without molybdenum additives), or HP4M (with molybdenum additives) 4-stroke oil, or an equivalent motorcycle oil.

APIclassification

viscosity (weight)

JASO T 903 standard

SG or higherexcept oils labeled as energy conserving on the API service label.SAE 10W-40

MA or MB

Suggested oils are equal in performance to SJ oils thatare not labeled as energy conserving on the circularAPI service label.

• Your PWC does not need oil additives. Usethe recommended oil.

• Do not use non-detergent, vegetable, orcastor based racing oils.

• Do not use API SH or higher oils labeled asenergy conserving on the API service label.

NOT RECOMMENDED OK

Servicing Your Honda122

Engine Oil & Filter

Other viscosities shown in the following chartmay be used when the average temperature inyour riding area is within the indicated range.

JASO T 903 Standard

JASO T 903 is the standard for classification of engine oils 4-stroke engines used in motorcycles.There are two classes: MA and MB.Oil conforming to the standard has thefollowing classification on the oil container.

PRODUCT MEETING JASO T 903COMPANY GUARANTEEING THIS MA PERFORMANCE:

(1) code number of the sales company of the oil(2) indication of classification of oil

MA(1)

(2)

Servicing Your Honda 123

Engine Oil & Filter

Refer to Safety Precautions on page 104.

Check the engine oil level each day beforeoperating your PWC and add oil if needed.Keep your PWC as level as possible for thisprocedure.

It is preferable to check the oil on shore.If necessary, this procedure may beperformed with your PWC on calm water.

Before checking the engine oil level:Perform this pre-check procedure on shore.1. Remove both seats (page 115) and the rear

tray (page 185).2. Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick (1) and

wipe it clean. 3. Insert the dipstick until it seats, but do not

screw it in.

ENGINE COMPARTMENT

(1) oil filler cap/dipstick (4) oil filler cap hole

(2) oil drain pipe cap (3) oil drain pipe

(cont’d)

Checking & Adding Oil

(2)

(3)

(1)

(4)

Servicing Your Honda124

Engine Oil & Filter

4. Remove the dipstick and check the oillevel.• If oil appears on the dipstick, refer to To

check the oil level.• If oil does not appear, perform step 5.

5. Remove the oil drain pipe cap (2) andinsert the dipstick in the oil drain pipe (3)until it seats, but don’t screw it in.

6. Remove the dipstick, if no oil appears onthe dipstick, do not start the engine.

7. Reinstall the oil drain pipe cap and tightenit securely.Before starting the engine, add thespecified oil into the filler cap hole (4),until it appears on the dipstick.

8. Reinstall the oil filler cap/dipstick. Makesure the cap is tightened securely.

To check the oil level on shore1. In a well-ventilated area, start the engine

while flushing the cooling system (page150).

• Start the engine before turning on the waterto prevent flow through the exhaust pipeback into the engine where it could causesevere damage.

• Avoid running the engine without waterflow for more than 15 seconds to preventsevere engine and exhaust system damage.

2. Let the engine idle for 5 minutes. If the airtemperature is below 10°C (50°F), let itidle for an additional 5 minutes (a total of10 minutes).

NOTICE

Engine Oil & Filter

Servicing Your Honda

3. Stop the flushing.

Avoid running the engine without water flowfor more than 15 seconds to prevent severeengine and exhaust system damage.

4. Stop the engine and wait a few minutes.

5. Remove both seats (page 115).

This procedure continues with Step 6 on page126.

To check the oil level on calm water1. Start the engine.2. Warm up the engine at approximately 4,000

rpm for 5 minutes.If the air temperature is below 10°C (50°F),let the engine idle for an additional 5minutes (a total of 10 minutes).

3. Let the engine idle for a minute.4. Stop the engine and get off your PWC.5. Remove both seats (page 115).

(cont’d)

125

NOTICE

Servicing Your Honda126

Engine Oil & Filter

6. Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick (5) andwipe it clean.

7. Insert the dipstick until it seats, but don’tscrew it in.

8. Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick (5) andcheck the oil level.• If the oil is at or near the upper level

mark (6) – you do not have to add oil.• If the oil is below or near the lower level

mark (7) – remove the oil fillercap/dipstick (5) and add therecommended oil until it reaches theupper level mark. (Do not overfill.) Wipe up any spilled oil immediately.

9. Reinstall the dipstick.

ENGINE COMPARTMENT

(5) oil filler cap/dipstick(6) upper level mark(7) lower level mark

(5)

(6)

(7)

10.Check for oil leaks.

Servicing Your Honda 127

Engine Oil & Filter

Refer to Safety Precautions on page 104.

Your PWC’s oil filter has very specificperformance requirements. Use a newgenuine Honda oil filter or a filter of equalquality specified for your model.

Using the wrong oil filter may result in leaksor premature engine damage.

This procedure requires mechanical skill andprofessional tools such as a torque wrenchand oil filter wrench, as well as a means fordisposing of the drained fluid (page 174). Ifyou do not have the skills or the tools, seeyour Honda PWC dealer.

Changing Engine Oil & Filter

NOTICE

Servicing Your Honda128

Wipe up any spilled oil immediately.

Drain the Engine Oil:1. Secure your PWC on a stand or trailer.2. Remove the oil filter cap/dipstick (1) and

the oil drain pipe cap (2).3. Using a commercially-available fluid

evacuator, drain the oil from the oil fillercap hole (3) and the oil drain pipe (4).

ENGINE COMPARTMENT

(1) oil filler cap/dipstick (3) oil filler cap hole(2) oil drain pipe cap (4) oil drain pipe

Engine Oil & Filter

(1)

(2) (4) (3)

Servicing Your Honda 129

Engine Oil & Filter

Install a New Oil Filter:4. To avoid spilling the oil, wrap a soft cloth

around the oil filter.5. Remove the oil filter (5) with a filter

wrench and let the remaining oil drain intoa suitable container. Discard the oil filter inan approved manner (page 174).

6. Pour the drained oil into a suitablecontainer and dispose of it in an approvedmanner (page 174).

Improper disposal of drained fluids isharmful to the environment.

ENGINE COMPARTMENT

(5) oil filter

(cont’d)

NOTICE

(5)

Servicing Your Honda130

7. Apply a thin coat of engine oil to therubber seal (6) of a new oil filter.

(6) oil filter rubber seal

8. Install the new oil filter and tighten it byhand.

9. Using an oil filter wrench attachment and atorque wrench, tighten the new oil filter tothe specified torque:20 lbf·ft (26 N·m, 2.7 kgf·m)

10. Install the oil drain pipe cap.

Add Engine Oil:11. Fill the oil tank with the recommended oil

slowly (page 121).If the oil filter was replaced, useapproximately:• ARX1200T3

4.5 US qt (4.3R)• ARX1200N3

4.3 US qt (4.1R)If the oil filter was not replaced, useapproximately:• ARX1200T3

4.4 US qt (4.2R)• ARX1200N3

4.2 US qt (4.0R)

Engine Oil & Filter

(6)

Servicing Your Honda 131

Engine Oil & Filter

12. Install the oil filler cap/dipstick securely.13. Start the engine and let it idle for a few

minutes while flushing the cooling system.

Turning on the water before starting theengine will allow water to flow through theexhaust pipe back into the engine where itcould cause severe damage.

14. Stop the flushing.

Running the engine without water flow formore than 15 seconds can cause severeengine and exhaust system damage.

15. Stop the engine.16. Check that the oil level is at the upper

level mark on the dipstick (page 125).17. Check that there are no oil leaks.

NOTICE

NOTICE

Air Filter

Servicing Your Honda

Refer to Safety Precautions on page 104.

Service the air filter more frequently if youride in salt water or at full throttle. YourHonda PWC dealer can help you determinethe correct service interval for your ridingconditions.

Your PWC’s air filter has very specificperformance requirements. Use a newgenuine Honda air filter specified for yourmodel or an air filter of equivalent quality.

Use the wrong air filter may result inpremature engine damage.

Proper air filter maintenance can preventpremature engine wear or damage, expensiverepairs, low engine power, poor gas mileage,and spark plug fouling.

Improper or lack of proper air filtermaintenance can cause poor performanceand premature engine wear.

132

NOTICE

NOTICE

1. Remove both seats (page 115).2. Unhook the four springs (1).3. Remove the air box cover (2).4. Remove the air filter (3).5. Discard the air filter.6. Install a new air filter.7. Install the removed parts in reverse order

of removal.8. Make sure the air box cover is completely

latched.

UNDER SEAT

(1) springs(2) air box cover(3) air filter

Air Filter

Servicing Your Honda 133

Replacement (ARX1200T3)

(1)

(1)

(3)

(2)

1. Remove both seats (page 115).2. Unhook the four springs (1).3. Remove the air box cover (2).4. Remove the air filter (3) by pulling the

filter holder rods (4)5. Discard the air filter.6. Install a new air filter.7. Install the removed parts in reverse order

of removal.8. Make sure the air box cover is completely

latched.

UNDER SEAT

(1) springs (4) filter holder rods(2) air box cover(3) air filter

Air Filter

Servicing Your Honda134

Replacement (ARX1200N3)

(2)

(1)

(3)

(4)

(1)

Servicing Your Honda 135

Lubrication

To keep moving parts functioning properly,coat them with a water-displacementcorrosion-proof lubricant (without Teflon ormolybdenum additives, such as CRC 6-56 orequivalent).

Provide lubrication when moving parts do notwork smoothly. Also lubricate as per themaintenance schedule (page 107).

Consult your Honda PWC dealer for moreinformation about lubrication procedures.

Lubricate the throttle link, cable and inside ofthrottle body as shown in followingillustrations.

RIGHT HANDLEBAR

Lubrication Points

Servicing Your Honda136

Lubrication

ENGINE COMPARTMENT ENGINE COMPARTMENT

(1) maintenance joint(2) joint hole A(3) joint hole B

(1)

(2)

(3)

Servicing Your Honda 137

Lubrication

To lubricate and rustproof the inside of thethrottle body, proceed as follows afterconfirming that the engine is stopped andcool.

1. Disconnect the maintenance joint (1).2. Insert the spray nozzle of a water-

displacement corrosion-proof lubricant(without Teflon or molybdenum additives,such as CRC 6-56 or an equivalent) intojoint hole A (2).

3. Open the throttle fully.4. Spray the lubricant into joint hole A (2) for

3 seconds.5. Operate the throttle lever slowly, from fully

ON to fully OFF, 3 times.6. Repeat the step 2-5 again.7. Perform the same lubrication procedure for

joint hole B (3).

8. Spray the lubricant to the maintenancejoint threads and the O-ring.

9. Reconnect the maintenance joint and makesure it tightened securely.

Servicing Your Honda138

Lubrication

Lubricate the steering cable, cable ball joint,shift cable ball joint and shift guide roller asshown in the following illustrations.

ABOVE FUEL TANK REAR

Servicing Your Honda 139

Lubricate the steering pivot shaft as shown inthe following illustrations.• To remove the handle cover, remove the six

screws (1) and two clips (2).

HANDLEBAR PIVOT SHAFT

Lubrication

(1) screws(2) clips

(2)

(1)

(1)

Servicing Your Honda140

Lubrication

Lubricate the steering nozzle and reversebucket pivots as shown in the followingillustration.

REAR

ARX1200T3 only: Lubricate and rustproofthe turbocharger (especially the wastegatelink) as shown in the following illustrationafter confirming the engine is cool.

ENGINE COMPARTMENT

Servicing Your Honda 141

Throttle

Refer to Safety Precautions on page 104.

(1) throttle lever

InspectionCheck freeplay at the throttle lever (1).Freeplay:1/16–1/4 in (2–6 mm)

If necessary, adjust to the specified range.

Throttle Freeplay

RIGHT HANDLEBAR

(1)

Servicing Your Honda142

Throttle

ENGINE COMPARTMENT

(2) sleeve (3) adjuster (4) lock nut

Adjustment1. Slide the sleeve (2) back to expose the

adjuster (3).2. Loosen the lock nut (4).3. Turn the adjuster (3).4. After adjustment, check for smooth

operation of the throttle lever from fullyON to fully OFF in all steering positions.

5. Reinstall the sleeve.

(2)

(3)

(4)

Servicing Your Honda 143

Throttle

Refer to Safety Precautions on page 104.

1. Check that the throttle assembly ispositioned properly and the securing boltsare tight.

2. Check for smooth operation of the throttlelever from fully ON to fully OFF in allsteering positions. If there is a problem, seeyour Honda PWC dealer.

Throttle Inspection

Servicing Your Honda144

Engine Idle Speed

Remember, idle speed adjustment is not a“cure-all” for other problems in your engine’sfuel-delivery system. Adjusting the idle willnot compensate for a fault elsewhere.

The engine must be at normal operatingtemperature and your PWC must be in thewater for accurate idle speed adjustment.

If the idle speed differs from the followingvalue, see your Honda PWC dealer.

Idle speed:1,200 ± 100 rpm

Servicing Your Honda 145

Spark Plugs

Use only the recommended type of sparkplugs in the recommended heat range. Itshould not be necessary to use spark plugs ina different heat range because the engine iswater-cooled.

Using spark plugs with an improper heatrange can cause engine damage.

This PWC uses spark plugs that have aniridium coated center electrode. Be sure toobserve the following when servicing thespark plugs.• Do not clean the spark plugs. If an

electrode is contaminated with accumulatedobjects or dirt, replace the spark plug with anew one.

• Use only a “wire-type feeler gauge” tocheck the spark plug gap.To prevent damaging the iridium coating ofthe center electrode, never use a “leaf-typefeeler gauge.”

standard sparkplug IMR9D-9H (NGK)

Spark Plug Recommendation

NOTICE

Refer to Safety Precautions on page 104.

1. Remove both seats (page 115).2. Disconnect the ignition connectors (1) and

remove the bolts (2).

Getting the ignition connectors wet candamage the ignition system.

ENGINE COMPARTMENT

(1) ignition connectors (2) bolts

Servicing Your Honda146

Spark Plugs

Spark Plug Inspection & Replacement

NOTICE

(2)(1)

3. Remove the ignition coils (3) from thespark plugs.

ENGINE COMPARTMENT

(3) ignition coils

4. Using the spark plug wrench (4) providedin the tool kit, remove the spark plugs.

ENGINE COMPARTMENT

(4) spark plug wrench

(cont’d)

Servicing Your Honda 147

Spark Plugs

(3)

(4)

Servicing Your Honda148

Spark Plugs

(5) spark plug gap

5. Inspect the electrodes and center porcelainfor deposits, corrosion, or carbon fouling.If the corrosion or deposits are heavy,replace the plug.

6. Make sure that a 1.0 mm wire-type feelergauge cannot be inserted between the sparkplug gap (5). If the gauge fits in the gap,replace the plug with a new one.

7. With the plug washers attached, thread thespark plugs in by hand to prevent cross-threading.

8. Tighten each spark plug:• about 1/8-1/4 turn after it seats (if the old

plug is good).• about 1/2 turn after it seats (if installing

a new plug).

Improperly tightened spark plugs can damagethe engine. Too loose, you can burn a piston.Too tight, you can damage the threads.

9. Reinstall the ignition coils and bolts, andconnect the ignition connectors.

(5)

NOTICE

10. Install both seats.

Servicing Your Honda 149

Engine Cooling System

Always flush the engine cooling system afterusing your PWC.

Flushing the system with fresh water preventssalt water corrosion and removes silt, sand,and other residue.

If you beach your PWC, be sure to flush thecooling system to avoid possible enginedamage.

You may also use the flushing procedure toprovide engine cooling when you are runningthe engine out of the water for maintenancepurposes.

The flushing connector is located in the jetnozzle cavity (page 150) at the rear of yourPWC.

While flushing the system, observe thefollowing suggestions to avoid enginedamage or personal injury:• Do not touch any electrical parts or

driveshaft components while the engine isrunning.

Servicing Your Honda150

Refer to Safety Precautions on page 104.

Check that the stern is lower than the bow.

1. Pull the reverse lever to lower the reversebucket (page 43).

2. Attach a garden hose (1) to the flushingconnector (2), but do not turn on the water.(If your hose has a male-threaded end,attach a commercially-available femalehose adapter (3), or use a section about twofeet long cut from the female-threaded endof a second hose.)

REAR

(1) garden hose (2) flushing connector(3) hose adapter

Engine Cooling System

Flushing Procedure

(2)

When running the engine on land,hot water and steam can spurt fromthe cooling water bypass outlet andthe exhaust outlet and may causeburns to people in the area.

Keep people away from the rear ofthe personal watercraft when theengine is running.

CAUTION

(3) (1)

Servicing Your Honda 151

Engine Cooling System

3. Start the engine.

Start the engine before turning on the waterto prevent flow through the exhaust pipe backinto the engine where it could cause severedamage.

4. Immediately after starting the engine, turnon the water flow.

Running the engine without water flow formore than 15 seconds can cause severeengine and exhaust system damage.

5. Check that water flows out of the coolingwater bypass outlet.If you don’t see water flowing out of theoutlet, turn off the water and the engine.Contact your Honda PWC dealer.

6. Let the engine idle for about 10 minuteswhile continuing the water flow.

If the engine stops during this procedure,immediately stop the water flow and resumefrom step 3.

REAR

(cont’d)

NOTICE

NOTICE

Servicing Your Honda152

Engine Cooling System

7. Turn off the water while leaving theengine idling.

8. Check the tachometer while running theengine for less than 15 seconds to rev theengine below approx.

Operating the engine out of water at highrpm or for longer than 15 seconds at a timemay cause severe engine and/or exhaustsystem damage.

9. Stop the engine.10. Disconnect the garden hose from the

flushing connector.11. Push the reverse lever to pull up the

reverse bucket.

NOTICE

Servicing Your Honda 153

Refer to Safety Precautions on page 104.

The bilge system, which drains water fromthe engine compartment, should be flushedperiodically according to the MaintenanceSchedule, or whenever blockage is suspected.

Be sure to remove the lock clip from theengine stop button/switch.

1. Remove both seats (page 115) and the reartray (page 185) to access the enginecompartment.

2. Push out the bilge strainer (1) while slidingit.

ENGINE COMPARTMENT

(1) bilge strainer

(cont’d)

Bilge Drain System

(1)

Servicing Your Honda154

Bilge Drain System

3. Clean the bilge strainer in fresh water.4. Check for clogging by spraying water from

the bilge strainer side. Water should flowout of the bilge drain nozzle in the jetpump.If the bilge strainer or other parts of thebilge drain system are clogged or damaged,replace as necessary. See your Honda PWCdealer.

5. Remove the bilge drain plugs to drain theengine compartment (page 45).

6. Inspect the plugs for cracks or damage.Replace if necessary. Tighten the plugssecurely.

7. Install the bilge strainer.

Servicing Your Honda 155

Your PWC is equipped with an “off-throttlesteering system” (page 88).

1. Insert the lock clip in the engine stopswitch to turn on the display.

2. Switch the multi-function meter (1) to thetachometer mode by pushing the MODEbutton (2).

3. Perform the flushing procedure (page 150).

(1) multi-function meter(2) MODE button

(cont’d)

Off-throttle Steering System

Checking System Operation (2)

(1)

Servicing Your Honda156

Off-throttle Steering System

4. Open the throttle and rev the engine up toapproximately 4,000 rpm for a fewseconds.

5. Fully close the throttle and turn the steeringfully to the right or to the left and hold it.

6. With the handlebar turned, check that theleft and right segments (3) alternate rapidflashing as illustrated, and the engine isreving up.

(3) segments

(3)

Servicing Your Honda 157

Battery

Your PWC has a maintenance-free typebattery. You do not have to check the batteryelectrolyte level or add distilled water as youwould with a conventional-type battery.

Your battery is a maintenance-free type andcan be permanently damaged if the cap stripis removed.

If you do not expect to ride your PWC for atleast two weeks, we recommend you removethe battery – or at least disconnect the batterycables (negative cable first) .

If you plan to store your PWC, see BatteryStorage, page 158.

If your battery seems weak and/or is leakingelectrolyte (causing slow starting or otherelectrical problems), see your Honda PWCdealer.

WARNING: Battery posts, terminals andrelated accessories contain lead and leadcompounds. Wash hands after handling.

NOTICE

Servicing Your Honda158

Battery

Refer to Safety Precautions on page 104.

If you plan to store your PWC, werecommend you remove the battery and storeit where it can be charged at least every 30days to maintain its service life.

If you do not remove the battery, werecommend disconnecting the battery cables(negative cable first) .

You will get the best storage results fromremoving the battery and slow (trickle)charging it every 30 days (see BatteryCharging, page 160) .

Before you remove the battery for the firsttime, be sure to read all the information thatfollows. After removing the battery, be sureto read the information on the battery label.

Battery Storage

The battery gives off explosivehydrogen gas during normaloperation.

A spark or flame can cause thebattery to explode with enoughforce to kill or seriously hurt you.

Wear protective clothing and a faceshield, or have a skilled mechanicdo the battery maintenance.

WARNING

Servicing Your Honda 159

The battery is located in a battery tray in theengine compartment below the rear seat.

1. Remove both seats (page 115) and the reartray (page 185) and wait a few minutes forthe engine to ventilate.

2. Disconnect the negative (–) terminal lead(2) from the battery first.

Always disconnect the negative (black) cablefirst. Fuel vapors may be present in theengine compartment which a spark couldignite.

3. Disconnect the positive (+) terminal lead(3) .

4. Release the rings and remove the rubberbands (1) .

5. Pull the battery (4) out of the battery tray.

ENGINE COMPARTMENT

(1) rubber bands(2) negative (–) terminal lead (black)(3) positive (+) terminal lead (red)(4) battery

(cont’d)

Battery

(3)

(4)

(2)

(1)

Servicing Your Honda160

Battery

6. Charge the battery (see following section),unless you have been riding regularly.

7. Clean the top of the battery and theterminals using a baking soda/watersolution.

8. Scrape off the deposits with a wire brush.9. Rinse the battery with fresh water and dry

it.10. Use waterproof grease to coat the

terminals.11. Store your battery in an easy-to-reach

location off the floor, in an area protectedfrom freezing temperatures and directsunlight.

12. Clean the battery tray after removing thebattery for storage. Dry the battery trayand, if paint is missing, re-paint the area.

13. Slow charge the battery (see followingsection) once every 30 days.

Refer to Safety Precautions on page 104.

(1) “trickle” charger

Be sure to read the information that camewith your battery charger and follow theinstructions on the battery. Improper chargingmay damage the battery.

Battery Charging

(1)

Servicing Your Honda 161

Battery

We recommend using a "trickle" charger (1)for home charging. These units can be leftconnected for long periods without riskingdamage to the battery. However, do notintentionally leave the charger connectedlonger than the time period recommended inthe charger's instructions.

Avoid using an automotive-type batterycharger. An automotive charger can overheata PWC battery and cause permanent damage.

Servicing Your Honda162

Frequent cleaning and polishing will keepyour Honda looking newer longer. Frequentcleaning also identifies you as an owner whovalues your PWC. A clean personalwatercraft is also easier to inspect andservice.

Periodically, the engine compartment shouldbe cleaned by your Honda PWC dealer toremove fuel/oil/electrolyte deposits andmildew.

Refer to Safety Precautions on page 104.

• To clean your PWC, you may use:– mild, neutral detergent and fresh water.– marine boat wax (for use on fiberglass

gelcoat)

Appearance Care

General Recommendations

Servicing Your Honda 163

Appearance Care

• We recommend the use of a garden hose towash your PWC.

High pressure water (or air) can damagecertain parts of your personal watercraft.

• After cleaning, inspect for damage, wear,and leaks (fuel and oil).

Refer to Safety Precautions on page 104.

1. Rinse your PWC thoroughly with coolwater. Spray the hull, deck, handlebar, anddrive system.

2. Fill a bucket with cool water. Mix in amild, neutral detergent, such as dishwashing liquid or a product madeespecially for washing PWC orautomobiles.

3. Rinse the engine and the enginecompartment with fresh water. Dry withclean rags and spray a water-displacementcorrosion-proof lubricant (without Teflonor molybdenum additives, such asCRC 6-56 or equivalent) on theengine.

(cont’d)

NOTICE

Washing Your PWC with a MildDetergent

Servicing Your Honda164

Appearance Care

• ARX1200T3 only: Clean theturbocharger in the same manner. Overtime, rust may appear on the outside ofthe turbocharger. This rust does not affectthe performance of the unit.

4. Wash your PWC with a sponge or a softtowel.

5. After washing, rinse your PWC thoroughlywith plenty of clean water to remove anyresidue. Detergent residue can corrodealloy parts.

6. Dry your PWC with a chamois or a softtowel. Leaving water on the surface to airdry can cause dulling and water spots. Asyou dry, inspect for chips and scratches.

Refer to Safety Precautions on page 104.

After washing your PWC, consider using acommercially-available quality fiberglassmarine wax to finish the job. Apply only anon-abrasive wax made specifically formarine use. Apply the wax to the hull anddeck according to the instructions on thecontainer.

If the fiberglass is damaged, see your HondaPWC dealer.

Finishing Touches

Tips

Tips

Here's a few helpful tips on how to store andtransport your Honda, and how to be anenvironmentally responsible PWC owner.

Storing Your Honda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166Transporting Your PWC . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173You & the Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174

165

Storing Your Honda

Tips

Your PWC should not be left in the water forextended periods.

If you won't be riding for an extended period,such as during the winter, or any periodlonger than one month, thoroughly inspectyour PWC and correct any problem beforestoring it. That way, needed repairs won't beforgotten and it will be easier to get yourPWC running again.

We suggest you perform the followingprocedures to keep your PWC in topcondition. These storage procedures willreduce the deterioration that can occur duringstorage.

We recommend that the following storageprocedures be performed by your HondaPWC dealer.

Refer to Safety Precautions on page 104.

This procedure requires a means fordisposing of drained fuel (page 174).

166

Preparation for Storage

Gasoline is highly flammable andexplosive. You can be burned orseriously injured when handlingfuel.

• Stop the engine and keep heat,sparks and flame away.

• Handle fuel only outdoors.• Wipe up spills immediately.

WARNING

Storing Your Honda

Tips

1. Flush the engine cooling system (page150). After flushing, disconnect the gardenhose.

2. Remove the bilge drain plugs to drain anywater. Raise the bow (front) of your PWCabout 1 foot to allow complete draining.

3. When storing the PWC in an area wherethe temperature drops below freezing,perform the following:• Attach a funnel onto an end of a garden

hose and connect the other end to theflushing connector.

• Prepare approx. 5 liters of a 50/50solution of antifreeze (Use Pro Honda HPcoolant or an equivalent).

• Following the flushing procedures for theengine cooling system, funnel theantifreeze solution into the engine (page150).

• Keep the funnel approximately 51.2inches (130 cm) above the deck.

• Check that the antifreeze solution iscoming out of the cooling water bypassoutlet and the jet pump. Use containers tocollect the solution and dispose of it in anapproved manner (page 174).Do not remove any containers until allstorage procedures have been completed.

(cont’d)

167

51.2 inches(130 cm)

Storing Your Honda

Tips

4. To prevent rusting the inlet valves, proceedas follows after confirming the engine iscool.• Remove both seats (page 115).• Disconnect the maintenance joint.• Start the engine at idle speed (without

pulling the throttle lever) and spray awater-displacement corrosion-prooflubricant (without Teflon or molybdenumadditives, such as CRC 6-56 or anequivalent) into joint hole A for 5seconds. Refer to the illustration of page136.

• Then immediately stop the engine.• Perform the same procedure for joint hole

B.• Reconnect the maintenance joint and

make sure it tightened securely.

Avoid running the engine without water flowfor more than 15 seconds to prevent severeengine and exhaust system damage.

168

NOTICE

Tips 169

Storing Your Honda

5. To prevent rusting in the cylinders, performthe following:• Disconnect the ignition coil connectors

and ignition coils from the spark plugs.• Remove the spark plugs from the engine

and store them in a safe place. Do notconnect the ignition coils to the ignitioncoil connectors.

• Pour a tablespoon (15–20 cc) of cleanengine oil into each cylinder and coverthe spark plug holes with a piece of cloth.

• Disconnect the injector connectors foreach cylinder.

• Push the start button several times tocrank the engine and distribute the oil.

• After cleaning the spark plug holes,reinstall the spark plugs and the ignitioncoils.

• Reconnect the ignition coil connectorsand injector connectors.

6. Spray a water-displacement corrosion-proof lubricant (without Teflon ormolybdenum additives, such as CRC 6-56or an equivalent) into the throttle body(pages 136-137).

7. Using a commercially-available fluidevacuator, drain the fuel.

(cont’d)

Storing Your Honda

Tips

8. Rinse the outside of the engine. Dry with asoft clean cloth and spray with a water-displacement corrosion-proof lubricant(without Teflon or molybdenum additives,such as CRC 6-56 or an equivalent).(ARX1200T3 only: Also rinse and dry theturbocharger, and spray it with the samelubricant. For turbocharger lubrication, seepage 140.)

9. Remove the battery and charge it fully.Store it in an area protected from freezingtemperatures and direct sunlight. Slowcharge the battery (page 160) once a month.

10.Wash and dry your PWC. Apply fiberglassmarine wax to the hull and deck.

11.Lubricate the moving parts (page 135).12.Store your PWC in an unheated area, free

of dampness, away from sunlight, with aminimum of daily temperature variation.

13.Remove both seats (page 115) to allow theengine compartment to dry thoroughly.

14.After the engine compartment is dry,reinstall both seats (page 116).

15.Keep your PWC as level as possible andcover it with a porous material. Avoidusing plastic or similar non-breathing,coated materials that restrict air flow andallow heat and moisture to accumulate.

170

Tips 171

Storing Your Honda

Refer to Safety Precautions on page 104.

1. Uncover and clean your PWC.2. If your PWC has been stored for more than

four months – change the engine oil (page127).

3. Charge the battery (page 160) as required.Install the battery.

4. Check the throttle lever moves smoothlywithout sticking, and snaps shutautomatically when it is released, in allsteering positions.

5. Lubricate the moving parts (page 135).6. Before starting, remove both seats and

front storage box to ventilate the enginecompartment.

(cont’d)

Removal from Storage

Starting the engine withoutventilating the engine compartmentcan cause a fire or explosion andyou or others could be seriouslyinjured or killed.

Always vent the enginecompartment before starting theengine.

WARNING

Tips172

Storing Your Honda

7. Perform the engine flushing procedure(page 150).

8. Check all hoses for cracking, andlooseness.• Continue flushing until the antifreeze

solution stops coming out.• Use containers to collect the solution

and dispose of it in an approvedmanner (page 174).

9. Install the bilge drain plugs. Check they are secure.

10. Check the fire extinguisher is not beyondits expiration date and charge or replace,if necessary.

Tips 173

Transporting Your PWC

Your PWC should be carried on a trailerdesigned for its hull design and weight.Check that the trailer meets all localregulations.

Before transporting your PWC, make sure allcompartments, covers, and both seats aresecure and the reverse bucket is up.

Use tie downs on the bow and stern eyelets tosecure your PWC to the trailer.

Do not route a tie down or rope over the seator wrap them around the handlebar. Do notuse the grab rail. Use padding wherever atiedown or rope contacts the hull or deck.

Use a PWC cover, especially if you will bedriving on dirt roads.

Tips174

You & The Environment

Owning and riding a PWC can be enjoyable,but you must do your part to protect nature.When you show respect for the waterways,wildlife, and other people, you also helppreserve the PWC sport.

Following are tips on how you can be anenvironmentally-responsible PWC owner.

• Ride in Approved Areas. Ride responsiblyonly in areas approved for PWC. Avoidshoreline homes, wildlife areas, other boats,and swimmers.

• Keep the Noise Down. Loud personalwatercraft can be offensive. Ride as quietlyas possible. Don't modify the muffler or anyother part of your air intake and exhaustsystems. Such modifications not onlyincrease noise, they also reduce engineperformance and may be illegal.

• Refuel carefully. If you pump gasoline at adock, take care not to spill. Gasoline in thewater can poison wildlife and people. If youspill gasoline, immediately wipe it up with arag and dispose of it properly. A littleattention on your part can do a lot to helppreserve the environment and ensure thatyou’ll have places to ride your PWC in thefuture.

• Choose Sensible Cleaners. Use abiodegradable detergent when you washyour PWC. Avoid aerosol spray cleanersthat contain chloroflurocarbons (CFCs)which damage the atmosphere's protectiveozone layer. Don't throw cleaning solventsaway; see the following guidelines forproper disposal.

Tips 175

You & The Environment

• Recycle Wastes. It's illegal and thoughtlessto put used engine oil in the trash, down adrain, or on the ground. Used oil, gasoline,coolant, and cleaning solvents containpoisons that can hurt refuse workers andcontaminate our drinking water, lakes,rivers, and oceans. Before changing youroil, make sure you have the propercontainers. Put oil and other toxic wastes inseparate sealed containers and take them toa recycling center. Call your local or stateoffice of public works or environmentalservices to find a recycling center in yourarea, and to get instructions on how todispose of non-recyclable wastes.

Tips176

This section discusses the more commonproblems that can occur with your PWCwhile you're riding. It tells you how toevaluate each problem and what actions youcan take to try to resume riding.

General Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178If Your Engine Quits or Won't Start . . . . . 179If Your Engine Overheats . . . . . . . . . . . . 182If the Low Oil Pressure Indicator Lights . 183If a Fuse Blows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184If You Have a Collision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188If Your PWC Must Be Towed . . . . . . . . . . 189If You Capsize . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190If Your PWC Is Submerged . . . . . . . . . . . 192If the Intake or Propulsion System Is Clogged . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194If Your Battery Is Low (or Dead) . . . . . . 196

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Taking Care of the Unexpected 177

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Keeping your PWC well-maintained is thebest way to reduce the possibility of having aproblem on the water.

Remember to take along your owner'smanual, the tool kit that came with yourPWC, and additional tools that might helpyou solve a problem on your own.

Should you ever have a problem while riding,please follow these guidelines:• Always put personal safety first – head back

to land.• Take time to assess the situation and your

options before deciding what to do.• If the problem is relatively minor and you

have the tools, supplies, and skills to make atemporary repair, be sure to have permanentrepairs made as soon as possible.

• If you can fix the problem yourself and planto go out again, perform a pre-rideinspection first.

Additional recommendations for specificproblems follow.

Taking Care of the Unexpected178

General Guidelines

If Your Engine Quits or Won’t Start

Proper operation and maintenance canprevent starting and engine performanceproblems. In many cases, the cause of theproblem may be a simple operationaloversight.

If you have a problem starting the engine – orexperience poor engine performance – thefollowing information may help you. If youcan't correct the problem, see your HondaPWC dealer.

While some checks and procedures can beperformed on the water, most requirereturning to land.

If your PWC won't start, listen as you pushthe start button. If you don't hear the startermotor turning, refer to the Starter motordoesn't operate symptom. If you can hear thestarter motor working normally, refer to theStarter motor works, but the engine won'tstart symptom.

Taking Care of the Unexpected 179

If Your Engine Quits or Won’t Start

Taking Care of the Unexpected180

WHAT TO DOReplace with a new fuse of the same rating (page 184) .Tighten the battery lead.Charge the battery (page 160) . If charging doesn't help, seeyour Honda PWC dealer.If all possible causes are negative, the starter motor may befaulty. See your Honda PWC dealer.Insert the lock clip in the engine stop button/switch.Enter the ID number. If you forget the ID number, see yourHonda PWC dealer.

POSSIBLE CAUSEblown fusebattery lead loosedead battery

faulty starter motor

lock clip not insertedID lock system notdeactivated

SYMPTOM: Starter motor doesn't operate.

WHAT TO DOFill the fuel tankSee Flooded Engine (page 75) .Install the ignition coil connectors and ignition coils securely. Ifthe engine still won't start, see your Honda PWC dealer.Tighten the battery terminal bolts.Charge the battery (page 160) . If charging doesn't help, seeyour Honda PWC dealer.

POSSIBLE CAUSEout of fuelflooded engineloose or unconnected ignition coilconnectors and ignition coilsloose battery cables weak battery

SYMPTOM: Starter motor works, but the engine won't start.

WHAT TO DOSee your Honda PWC dealer.Check the cooling water bypass outlet. If water is not flowing,shut off the engine. Refer to If Your Engine Overheats, page182.Check the low oil pressure indicator. Refer to If the Low OilPressure Indicator Lights, page 183.See your Honda PWC dealer.See your Honda PWC dealer.See your Honda PWC dealer.

If applicable, switch to the recommended octane gasoline (page117) or change your brand of gasoline. If the problem persists,see your Honda PWC dealer.See your Honda PWC dealer.

POSSIBLE CAUSEidles roughly, too fast, stallsoverheating

low oil pressure

runs erratically, misfiresblubbers (rich fuel mixture)sooty exhaust (rich fuelmixture)detonates or pings underload

afterfires (backfires)

If Your Engine Quits or Won’t Start

Taking Care of the Unexpected 181

SYMPTOM: Engine starts, but runs poorly.

If Your Engine Overheats

If your engine overheats, the multi-functiondisplay will show a warning message, theengine cooling water temperature indicatorand the WARNING lamp will flash, and youwill hear a warning beeper.

To stop the warning beeper, press and holdany one of the four control buttons (SET,MODE, ID SET, or ID No.) for about 2seconds.

If the engine cooling water temperaturereaches a certain level, engine revs areautomatically limited to 3,000 rpm to preventdamage. If the temperature continues rising,the engine will automatically shut off andcannot be restarted until the temperature drops.

• Return to shore immediately and shut offthe engine. Allow it to cool.

• Check inside of the hull. If a large amountof bilge water is found, check connection of

the water hoses in the cooling system.• Inspect the jet pump water intake for

clogging.• Inspect the impeller for clogging.• Flush the cooling system (page 150).• After taking the above-mentioned measures

or if there is no obvious problem, start theengine and slowly ride the PWC (under3,000 rpm). Monitor the engine coolingwater temperature indicator. If the enginestill overheats, shut off the engine.Transport your PWC to a Honda PWCdealer (page 173).

Continuing to ride with an overheated enginecan cause serious engine damage.

Taking Care of the Unexpected182

NOTICE

If the Low Oil Pressure Indicator Lights

If you check your engine oil level regularly,you should never see the low oil pressureindicator while riding.

Low oil pressure may be caused by an oilleak, a low oil level, or some problem in theengine's lubrication system.

If the indicator and the WARNING lampcome on and hear a warning beeper while you'reriding, don't ignore it. Return to shore and stopthe engine as soon as it's safe to do so.

To stop the warning beeper, press and holdany one of the four control buttons (SET,MODE, ID SET, or ID No.) for about 2seconds.

If the oil pressure drops below a certain level,engine revs are automatically limited to 3,000rpm. If the pressure continues dropping, theengine will automatically shut off and cannotbe restarted until the pressure problem is

solved.• Check for an oil leak.• Then check the oil level. If necessary, add

the recommended oil (page 121) to theupper level mark on the land.

• After adding oil, start the engine, andcheck that the low oil pressure indicatorgoes off. Check for a possible leak.

If the indicator goes off and there is no leak— resume riding. If there is a leak — do notride the PWC until the leak is repaired by aHonda PWC dealer.

Continuing to ride with low oil pressure cancause serious engine damage.

Taking Care of the Unexpected 183

NOTICE

If a Fuse Blows

All of the electrical circuits on your PWChave fuses to protect them from damagecaused by excess current flow (short circuitor overload) .

If something electrical on your PWC stopsworking, the first thing you should check foris a blown fuse. Determine from the chart onthe circuit fuse box cover which fuse or fusescontrol that component. Check those fusesfirst, but check all the fuses before lookingelsewhere for another possible cause of theproblem. Replace any blown fuses and checkcomponent operation.

The circuit fuse box is located in the enginecompartment below the rear seat.

Recommended Fuses

To prevent an accidental short circuit, removethe lock clip before checking or replacing thefuses.

Taking Care of the Unexpected184

main fuse 30 A

other fuses 5 A, 7.5 A

If a Fuse Blows

Main Fuse Access:1. To access the main fuse (1), remove the

rear seat (page 115) and rear tray (2) toaccess the engine compartment.

2. Remove the fuse box cover (3).

ENGINE COMPARTMENT

(1) main fuse(3) fuse box cover(5) spare main fuse

REAR

(2) rear tray

3. Pull the main fuse out. If it is blown (4), install the spare mainfuse (5).

(4) blown fuse (cont’d)

Taking Care of the Unexpected 185

(3)

(5)

(2)

(4)

(1)

If a Fuse Blows

Circuit Fuse Access:4. To check or replace a circuit fuse, pull the

old fuse out of its retaining clips. Look fora burned wire inside the fuse. If the fuse isblown (4), replace it with a spare fuse (6)of the same rating or lower.

5. Install the fuse box cover.6. Install the rear tray (page 185) and the rear

seat (page 115).

If you do not have a spare fuse and youcannot ride the PWC without fixing theproblem, take a fuse of the same rating or alower rating from one of the other circuitsthat you can do without temporarily.

Replacing a fuse with one that has a higherrating greatly increases the chance ofdamage to the electrical system.

ENGINE COMPARTMENT

(6) spare fuses

Taking Care of the Unexpected186

NOTICE

(6)

If a Fuse Blows

If you replace a blown fuse with a spare fusethat has a lower rating, replace the fuse withthe correct rating as soon as you can. Alsoremember to replace any spare fuses thatwere installed.

If the replacement fuse of the same ratingburns out in a short time, there is probably aserious electrical problem on your PWC.Leave the blown fuse in that circuit and haveyour PWC checked by your Honda PWCdealer.

Taking Care of the Unexpected 187

If You Have a Collision

Personal safety is your first priority after anyaccident. If you or anyone else has beeninjured, take time to assess the severity of theinjuries. Call for emergency assistance ifneeded, and head for shore. Also followapplicable laws and regulations if anotherperson or vehicle is involved in the accident.

If you decide it is possible to ride safely,carefully inspect your PWC for damage anddetermine if it is safe to ride. Check thetightness of critical nuts and bolts securingsuch parts as the handlebar, throttle lever, andjet pump steering nozzle. Also check theoperation of these parts.

No matter how much damage there is, rideslowly and cautiously toward shore. Dependingon how severe the damage is, you may needto be towed to shore. Sometimes, collisiondamage is hidden or not immediatelyapparent, so you should have your PWCthoroughly checked by a Honda PWC dealeras soon as possible.

Taking Care of the Unexpected188

If Your PWC Must Be Towed

If you run out of fuel, have engine problems,or have collision damage, you can attach atow line to the bow eyelet so your PWC maybe towed to shore.

Do not attach a tow line any where on thePWC except the bow eyelet.• The recommended tow rope length is three

times the combined length of the towingboat and your PWC.

• If you use a tow line, take care to keep itaway from the propeller of the towing boat.

• The towing boat should slowly pull awayfrom the PWC until the tow rope slack istaken up.

You should ride on your PWC, holding thehandlebar, as it is towed.

Towing your personal watercraft at speedsexceeding 10 mph can cause water to floodinto the engine.

Keep the tow speed below 10 mph.

Taking Care of the Unexpected 189

NOTICE

If You Capsize

Your PWC is designed to resist capsizing.However, if your PWC does turn over, it willremain capsized until you right it again.

Act quickly to turn the boat back upright.If your PWC remains capsized, you willprobably have some problems.

Serious damage can be caused if the engineruns while your PWC is capsized. This isanother reason why it is important to alwaysinsert the lock clip in the engine stopbutton/switch and wear the safety lanyardbefore you operate your PWC.

1. Make sure the engine is off. If the lock clipis still in the engine stop button/switch,remove it.

2. Swim to the rear of your PWC.

(1) uprighting procedure label(2) grate(3) outside bumper

Taking Care of the Unexpected190

(3) (1)

(2)

3. Look for the uprighting procedure label (1)(on the left side when capsized, viewedfrom the rear).

4. Make sure the area is clear of people andpassengers, then grab the intake grate (2)with both hands and pull the PWC overtoward you while pushing down on the sideof the hull nearest you.

5. As your PWC rolls over, remove yourhands from the intake grate and grab theoutside bumper (3).

6. Get out of the way as the PWC completesits rotation.

7. Remove both seats and the rear tray, andcheck for flooding of engine compartment.

– If the engine compartment is badlyflooded, do not start the engine, and havesomeone tow your PWC to land. Drainwater from the engine compartment, thentake your PWC to your Honda PWCdealer.

– If the engine compartment is not badlyflooded, go to step 8.

8. Insert the lock clip in the engine stopbutton/switch.

9. Push the start button.If the engine starts, you can continueriding.If the engine does not start, do not attemptrepeated starts. Get towed to shore. Referto If Your PWC Is Submerged, page 192.See your Honda PWC dealer immediatelyto avoid possible severe engine damage.

If You Capsize

Taking Care of the Unexpected 191

10.

11.

If Your PWC Is Submerged

Your PWC will not sink, but if it issubmerged or flooded with water, act quicklyto avoid severe engine damage.

1. Remove your PWC from the water.2. Remove the bilge drain plugs to drain the

water out of the engine compartment.3. Check the transparent section of the air box

drain tube.If you can see water, pull the plug on theend of the tube to drain the air box.

4. Disconnect the ignition coil connectors andignition coils from the spark plugs.

5. Remove the spark plugs from the engineand store them in a safe place and put softcloths on the plug holes. Do not connectthe ignition coils to the ignition coilconnectors.

6. Disconnect the injector connectors.7. Open the throttle fully.

8. Press the start button for 15 seconds.Continue this procedure until water stopscoming out.

9. Remove the soft cloths and pour atablespoon (15–20cc) of clean engine oilinto each cylinder.Push the start button several times to crankthe engine and distribute the oil.After cleaning the spark plug holes,reinstall the spark plugs and the ignitioncoils.Remove the air box cover and check the airfilter.If the filter is wet, remove the filter and dryit.Do not use compressed air to dry the airfilter.Reconnect the ignition coil connectors andthe injector connectors.Take your PWC to your Honda PWCdealer as soon as possible.

Taking Care of the Unexpected192

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

If Your PWC Is Submerged

Taking Care of the Unexpected 193

Letting your PWC sit overnight with water inthe engine, especially with more corrosivesalt water, may cause severe engine damage.

If a Honda PWC dealer is not available:1. Change the engine oil and filter (page 128).2. Using the flushing procedure (page 150),

run the engine for at least 10 minutes toremove any moisture left in the combustionchamber.

3. After stopping the engine, check the oil. Ifit appears milky (indicating watercontamination), change the oil and filteragain.

Taking Care of the Unexpected194

If the Intake or Propulsion System Is Clogged

If riding over water heavy with weeds isunavoidable, vary throttle input to reduce thechances of clogging the intake system.

If the intake/propulsion system is clogged byweeds or other debris, you may experienceone or two problems. Reduced water jetthrust may slow your water speed even as youincrease engine rpm with the throttle lever.The reduction of water flow may also causethe engine to overheat.

Before attempting to clean the intake/propulsion system, always remove the lockclip from the engine stop button/switch toprevent accidental engine starting.

Taking Care of the Unexpected 195

If the Intake or Propulsion System Is Clogged

1. After shutting the engine off, remove yourPWC from the water.

2. Remove the lock clip from the engine stopbutton/switch.

3. Disconnect the battery cables.4. If possible, use a protective pad or cardboard

to prevent scratching when you turn yourPWC on its side for cleaning.

5. Rotate your PWC clockwise (from the rear,90° max.) to its right side. Do not push theengine start button.

Rotating the personal watercraftcounterclockwise to its left side, andmaintaining this position while cleaning theintake system, could allow a substantialamount of oil to leak from the engine.

6. Check and, if necessary, clean allcomponents (intake grate, driveshaft,impeller, jet pump steering nozzle) of thewater intake/propulsion system.

7. After uprighting your PWC, check forleaks in the engine compartment.

Cleaning the Intake/PropulsionSystem on the Shore

90° MAX

NOTICE

Taking Care of the Unexpected196

If Your Battery Is Low (or Dead)

Jump starting is not recommended, especiallyif you use an automobile battery. The greateramperage of an automobile battery when thecar engine is running can damage yourPWC's electrical system.

Do not charge the battery while it is installedin the PWC.

If you can't charge the battery or it appearsunable to hold a charge, contact your HondaPWC dealer.

Technical Information

Technical Information 197

This section contains dimensions, capacities,and other technical data, plus information ongovernment requirements and how to break-in your PWC.

Vehicle Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .198Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201Break-in Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .205Emission Control Systems . . . . . . . . . . . .206Star Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209Oxygenated Fuels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .212

Technical Information198

Vehicle Identification

The registration (or primary) identificationnumber, hull identification number (HIN) ,and engine number are required when youregister your PWC. They may also berequired when ordering replacement parts.You may record these numbers in the QuickReference section at the rear of this manual.

Also record these identification numbers withyour other important documents at home incase your PWC is stolen.

Federal law requires that all PWC beregistered and numbered. The registrationnumber must appear on both sides of thePWC, above the water line. Make sure thenumbering meets all local regulations.

The registration (or primary) identificationnumber (1) is located on both sides of thePWC.

LEFT AND RIGHT SIDE

(1) registration identification number

Serial Numbers

(1)

Technical Information 199

Vehicle Identification

The hull identification number (HIN) (2) islocated on the hull at the rear of the PWC.

REAR

(2) hull identification number (HIN)

The engine number (3) is stamped on the topof the oil tank.

UNDER FRONT SEAT

(3) engine number

(2)(3)

Technical Information200

Vehicle Identification

The color label (4) is attached behind thefront hood.

The color code is helpful when orderingreplacement parts. You may record the colorand code in the Quick Reference section at therear of this manual.

BEHIND FRONT HOOD

(4) color label

Color Label & Code

(4)

Technical Information 201

Specifications

Dimensionsoverall lengthoverall widthoverall height

126.0 in (3,200 mm)49.0 in (1,245 mm)41.7 in (1,060 mm)

Weightdry weight ARX1200T3 : 789 lbs (358 kg)

ARX1200N3 : 745 lbs (338 kg)

fuel recommendationfuel tank capacityengine oil capacity

ARX1200T3

ARX1200N3

unleaded premium gasoline, pump octane number of 91 or higher16.64 US gal (63.0 R)

after disassembly : 5.6 US qt (5.3R)after draining : 4.4 US qt (4.2R)after draining & oil filter change : 4.5 US qt (4.3R)

after disassembly : 5.3 US qt (5.0R)after draining : 4.2 US qt (4.0R)after draining & oil filter change : 4.3 US qt (4.1R)

Fuel & Lubricants

Technical Information202

Specifications

Capacities

passenger capacity maximum weightcapacitycargo capacity

operator, two passengers524 lbs (238 kg)rider, passengers, all cargofront storage compartment: 22 lbs (10 kg)glove box : 6.6 lbs (3.0 kg)

engine oilrecommendation

lubricant

cooling system

API Service Classification SG or higher except oils labeled as energy conserving on the API service label.SAE 10W-40JASO 4T Standard MA or MBPro Honda GN4, HP4 or HP4M 4-stroke oil or an equivalent motorcycle oilWater-displacement corrosion-proof lubricant (without Teflon or molybdenum additives, such as CRC 6-56 or equivalent)Water-cooled, open circuit, direct flow from propulsion system

Fuel & Lubricants (cont’d)

Technical Information 203

Specifications

Performancemaximum output ARX1200T3 : 121.4 kW (165 HP)/6,100 rpm

ARX1200N3 : 91.9 kW (125 HP)/7,000 rpmARX1200T3 : 14.0 US gal/hour (53R/hour, at full throttle) ARX1200N3 : 9.2 US gal/hour (35R/hour, at full throttle)

ARX1200T3 : 1.2 hours (at full throttle)ARX1200N3 : 1.8 hours (at full throttle)

fuel consumption

cruising range

engine typedisplacementbore & strokespark plug valve clearance (cold)

spark plug gap

Enginefour-stroke75.3 cu-in (1,235 cm3)3.11 x 2.48 in (79.0 x 63.0 mm)IMR9D-9Hintake : 0.006 in (0.16 mm)exhaust : 0.01 in (0.26 mm)0.031 — 0.035 in (0.80 — 0.90 mm) no adjustment

idle speed 1,200 100 rpm

Specifications

Technical Information204

Hullhull material fiberglass reinforced plastic

Electricalbattery 12 V-18 AHgenerator 0.31 kW/5,000 rpm

Fusesmain 30 Aother fuses 5 A, 7.5 A

Torque Specificationsoil filter 20 lbf·ft (26 N·m, 2.7 kgf·m)

Propulsion Systemjet pump type Axial flow, single stage

3 feet (90 cm)

3-blade stainless steel

minimum level forjet pump operationimpeller

Technical Information 205

Break-in Guidelines

Help assure your PWC’s future reliability andperformance by paying extra attention to howyou ride during the first tank full of fuel.

During the first 5 minutes:• Use the lowest possible speed (slightly

above idle speed).

During the next 15 minutes:• Run at varying rpm, never exceeding 3,000

rpm.

During the following 15 minutes:• Run at varying rpm, never exceeding 4,000

rpm.

During the remainder of the first full fueltank:• Vary the operating speed often, do not

continue running for a long time at any onespeed.

• Avoid full-throttle starts and rapidacceleration.

• Use no more than 5,000 rpm.• Do not carry passengers.

Technical Information206

Emission Control Systems

Exhaust Emission Requirements The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency(EPA) , the California Air Resources Board(CARB) , and Transport Canada require thatyour PWC comply with applicable exhaustemissions standards during its useful life,when operated and maintained according tothe instructions provided.

The U.S. and California Clean Air ActsEPA and California regulations require allmanufacturers to furnish written instructionsdescribing the operation and maintenance ofemission control systems.

The following instructions and proceduresmust be followed in order to keep theemissions from your Honda engine within theemission standards.

Tampering and AlteringTampering with or altering the emissioncontrol system may increase emissionsbeyond the legal limit. Among those acts that constitute tamperingare;

• Removal or alteration of any part of theintake, fuel, or exhaust systems.

• Alterations that would cause the engine tooperate outside its design parameters.

Emission Control Systems

Technical Information

Warranty ComplianceCompliance with the terms of theDistributor's Warranties for Honda PersonalWatercraft Emission Control Systems isnecessary in order to keep the emissionssystem warranty in effect.

(1) vehicle emission control information label

The vehicle emission control informationlabel (1) is attached on the cylinder headcover.

Source of Exhaust EmissionsThe combustion process produces carbonmonoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx),and hydrocarbons (HC). Control of oxides ofnitrogen and hydrocarbons is very importantbecause, under certain conditions, they reactto form photochemical smog when subjectedto sunlight. Carbon monoxide does not reactin the same way, but it is toxic.

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. utilizes varioussystems to reduce carbon monoxide, oxidesof nitrogen, and hydrocarbons.

207

(1)

Technical Information208

Emission Control Systems

Exhaust Emission Control SystemThe exhaust emission control systemincludes a PGM-FI system.

PGM-FI SystemThe PGM-FI system uses sequentialmultiport fuel injection. It has threesubsystems: Air Intake, Engine Control, andFuel Control.The Engine Control Module (ECM) usesvarious sensors to determine how much air isgoing into the engine. It then controls howmuch fuel to inject under all operatingconditions.

Ignition Timing Control SystemThe system constantly adjusts the ignitiontiming, reducing the amount of HC, CO andNOx produced.

Crankcase Emission Control SystemThe engine is equipped with a closedcrankcase system to prevent dischargingcrankcase emissions into the atmosphere.Blow-by gas is returned to the combustionchamber through the air cleaner and theintake manifold.

Problems That May Affect PWC ExhaustEmissionsIf you are aware of any of the followingsymptoms, have the vehicle inspected andrepaired by your authorized Honda PWCdealer.

Symptoms:1. Hard starting or stalling after starting2. Rough idle3. Misfiring or backfiring during acceleration4. After-burning (backfiring)5. Poor performance (driveability) and poor

fuel economy

Technical Information 209

A star label was applied to this PWC in accordance with the requirements of the California AirResources Board.

The Star Label means Cleaner Marine EnginesThis engine has been certified as a:

The Symbol for Cleaner Marine Engines:

Cleaner Air and Water - for healthier lifestyle and environment.

Better Fuel Economy - burns up to 30-40 percent less gas and oil than conventional carburetedtwo-stroke engines, saving money and resources.

Longer Emission Warranty - protects consumer for worry free operation.

Star Label

Technical Information210

Star Label

One StarLow Emission

The one-star label identifies engines that meetthe Air Resources Board’s PersonalWatercraft and Outboard marine engine 2001exhaust emission standards. Engines meetingthese standards have 75% lower emissionsthan conventional carbureted two-strokeengines. These engines are equivalent to theU. S. EPA’s 2006 standards for marineengines.

Two StarsVery Low Emission

The two-star label identifies engines thatmeet the Air Resources Board’s PersonalWatercraft and Outboard marine engine 2004exhaust emission standards. Engines meetingthese standards have 20 % lower emissionsthan One Star-Low Emission engines.

Technical Information 211

Star Label

Three StarsUltra Low Emission

The three-star label identifies engines thatmeet the Air Resources Board’s PersonalWatercraft and Outboard marine engine 2008exhaust emission standards or the Sterndriveand Inboard marine engine 2003-2008exhaust emission standards. Engines meetingthese standards have 65% lower emissionsthan One Star-Low Emission engines.

Four StarsSuper Ultra Low Emission

The four-star label identifies engines that meet theAir Resources Board’s Sterndrive and Inboardmarine engine 2009 exhaust emission standards.Personal Watercraft and Outboard marine enginesmay also comply with these standards. Enginesmeeting these standards have 90% lower emissionsthan One Star-Low Emission engines.

Cleaner Watercraft - Get the Facts 1-800-END-SMOG

www.arb.ca.gov

Technical Information212

Oxygenated Fuels

Some conventional gasolines are beingblended with alcohol or an ether compound.These gasolines are collectively referred to asoxygenated fuels. To meet clean air standard,some areas of United States and Canada useoxygenated fuels to help reduce emissions. Ifyou use an oxygenated fuel, be sure it isunleaded and meets the minimum octanerating requirement.

Before using an oxygenated fuel, try toconfirm the fuel's contents. Somestates/provinces require this information to beposted on the pump.

The following are the EPA-approvedpercentages of oxygenates:

ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol) 10% byVolume

You may use gasoline containing up to 10%ethanol by volume. Gasoline containingethanol may be marketed under the name"Gasohol."

MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether) 15% byVolume

You may use gasoline containing up to 15%MTBE by volume.

Technical Information 213

Oxygenated Fuels

METHANOL (methyl or wood alcohol) 5%by Volume

You may use gasoline containing methanolcontaining up to 5% methanol by volume aslong as it also contains cosolvents andcorrosion inhibitors to protect the fuelsystem. Gasoline containing more than 5%methanol by volume may cause startingand/or performance problems. It may alsodamage metal, rubber, and plastic parts ofyour fuel system.

If you notice any undesirable operatingsymptoms, try another service station orswitch to another brand of gasoline.

Fuel system damage or performanceproblems resulting from the use of anoxygenated fuel containing more than thepercentages of oxygenates mentioned aboveare not covered under warranty.

Oxygenated fuels can damage paint andplastic. Be careful not to spill fuel whenfilling the fuel tank. Wipe up any spillsimmediately.

Oxygenated fuels can damage paint andplastic. Damage caused by spilled fuel is notcovered by warranty.

NOTICE

Technical Information214

Consumer Information

Consumer Information 215

This section contains information on yourwarranty and how to get an official Hondaservice manual.

Authorized Manuals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216Warranty Coverage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .219Warranty Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .220Contacting Honda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .221Your Honda PWC Dealer . . . . . . . . . . . . .222Reporting Safety Defects(USA only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .223

Consumer Information216

Authorized Manuals

There are two sources of reference that are available to properly service this PWC. A CD-ROMwhich contains the Service Manual, Owner’s Manual, videos, color wire diagrams and other relatedinformation, as well as a high-quality photocopy of the Service Manual.

Also available, but not necessary, to service your PWC is the Honda Common Service Manual(Publications No. 61CM001), which explains theory of operation and basic service information forvarious systems on this PWC.

These Honda manuals are written for the professional technician, but most mechanically-capableowners should find them easy to use if they have the proper tools and observe proper safetystandards. Special Honda tools are necessary for some procedures.

Publication item No. Description Price Each*61HW1C02 2004 ARX1200T3/N3 $54.00

Servicing Reference Information61HW102 2004 ARX1200T3/N3 Service Manual $60.0061CM001 Common Service Manual $48.0031HW1620 2004 ARX1200T3/N3 Owner’s Manual $16.00*Prices are subject to change without notice and without incurring obligation.

Consumer Information 217

Authorized Manuals

Order On-Line: www.helminc.com

Order Toll Free: 1-888-CYCLE 93 (1-888-292-5393)(NOTE: For Credit Card Orders Only)

Monday – Friday 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM ESTOR

By completing this form you can order the materials desired. You can pay by check or money order,or charge to your credit card. Mail to Helm, Inc. at the address shown on the back of this orderform.

Canada: See your Honda PWC dealer to order authorized manuals.

Publication item No. Item Description Total Price

$4.00

Qty. Price Each*

Sub totalMich. PurchasersAdd 6 % Sales TaxHandling ChargeGrand total

*Prices are subject to change without notice and withoutincurring obligation.

Orders are mailed within 10 days. Please allow adequate timefor delivery.

Consumer Information218

Authorized Manuals

These Publications cannot be returned for credit without receiving advance authorization within 14days of delivery. On returns, a restocking fee may be applied against the original order.

HELM P. O. BOX 07280, DETROIT, MICHIGAN 48207

SHIP

TO

NOTE: Dealers and Companies please provide dealer or company name, and also the name of theperson to whose attention the shipment should be sent.

Customer Name Attention

Street Address - No P.O. Box Number Apartment Number

City State Zip Code

Daytime Telephone Number ( )

PAYMENT

Check or money order enclosed payable to Helm Inc. Check here if your billing address is differentU.S. funds only. Do not send cash. from the shipping address shown above.

MasterCard Account Number Expiration: Mo. Yr.

VISA

Discover

Customer Signature Date

Consumer Information 219

Warranty Coverage

Your new Honda is covered by thesewarranties:

• Personal Watercraft Limited Warranty• Emission Warranty• Replacement Parts Warranty• Accessories Warranty

There are responsibilities, restrictions, andexclusions which apply to these warranties.Please read the Warranties Booklet given toyou by your Honda PWC dealer at the time ofpurchase. Be sure to keep your Hondaowner's card with your Warranties Booklet.It is important to realize that your warrantyapplies to defects in material or workmanshipof your Honda. Your warranty coverage doesnot apply to normal wear or deteriorationassociated with using the PWC.

Your warranty coverage will not be voided ifyou choose to perform your ownmaintenance. However, you should have theproper tools and service information and bemechanically qualified. Failures that occurdue directly to improper maintenance are notcovered.

Almost all of your warranty coverage can beextended through the Honda Protection Plan.For more information, see your Honda PWCdealer.

Consumer Information220

Warranty Service

Please remember that recommendedmaintenance interval servicing is not includedin your warranty coverage. Additionally, yourwarranty does not apply to the normal wearof items.

If you believe you have a problem with yourPWC, call the service department of yourHonda PWC dealer. Make an appointment foran inspection and diagnosis. Remember, asthe owner of the PWC, you will be asked toauthorize that inspection. Your dealer willgive you the results of the inspection. If theproblem is covered under warranty, yourdealer will perform the warranty repairs foryou.

If you have questions about warrantycoverage or the nature of the repair, it is bestto talk to the service manager of your HondaPWC dealer.

Sometimes, in spite of the best intentions ofall concerned, a misunderstanding may occur.If you aren't satisfied with your dealer'shandling of the situation, we suggest youdiscuss your problem with the appropriatemember of the dealership's managementteam. If the problem has already beenreviewed with the Service Manager, PartsManager, Sales Manager, etc., contact theOwner of the dealership or their designatedrepresentative.

Consumer Information 221

Contacting Honda

Your owner's manual was written to covermost of the questions you might ask aboutyour Honda. Any questions not answered inthe owner's manual can be answered by yourHonda PWC dealer. If your dealer doesn'thave the answer right away, they will get itfor you.

If you have a difference of opinion with yourdealer, please remember that each dealershipis independently owned and operated. That'swhy it's important to work to resolve anydifferences at the dealership level.

If you wish to comment on your experienceswith your Honda or with your Honda PWCdealer, please send your comments to thefollowing address:

Motorcycle Division, American Honda MotorCo., Inc., P.O. Box 2220, Torrance, CA90509-2220, mailstop: 100-4W-5B,telephone: (310) 532-9811.

Please include the following information inyour letter.• name, address, and telephone number• Product model, year, and HIN serial

number• date of purchase• dealer name and address

We will likely ask your Honda PWC dealer torespond, or possibly acknowledge yourcomments directly.

Consumer Information222

Your Honda PWC Dealer

Once you purchase your new Honda, getfamiliar with the organization of your HondaPWC dealer so you can utilize the full rangeof services available.

The service department is there to performregular maintenance and unexpected repairs.It has the latest available service informationfrom Honda. The service department will alsohandle warranty inspections and repairs.

The parts department offers Genuine Hondaparts, Pro Honda products, Honda Genuineaccessories. The same quality that went intoyour Honda can be found in Genuine Hondareplacement parts. You'll also findcomparable quality in the accessories andproducts available from the parts department.

The sales department offers the HondaProtection Plan to extend almost all of yourwarranty coverage. Your Honda PWC dealercan inform you about competition and otherevents in your area.

We're sure you'll be as pleased with theservice your Honda PWC dealer continues toprovide after the sale as you are with thequality and dependability of your Honda.

Consumer Information 223

Reporting Safety Defects (USA only)

If you believe that your vehicle has a defectwhich could cause a crash or could causeinjury or death, you should immediatelyinform the U. S. Coast Guard (U.S.C.G.) inaddition to notifying American Honda MotorCo., Inc.

If the U.S.C.G. receives similar complaints, itmay open an investigation, and if it finds thata safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, itmay order a recall and remedy compaign.However the U.S.C.G. cannot becomeinvolved in individual problems between you,your Honda PWC dealer, or American HondaMotor Co., Inc.

To contact the U. S. Coast Guard, write to:

Office of Boating Safety Product AssuranceDivision-OPB-3United States Coast Guard2100 Second Street SWWashington, DC 20593-0001

Table of Contents224

Table of Contents

The following presents the contents of eachsection of your owner's manual.

PWC SAFETY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1Important Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . 2Safety Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

INSTRUMENTS & CONTROLS . . . . . 11Component Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Multi-function Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

SET Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26MODE Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26ID SET Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27ID No. Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27Low Oil Pressure Indicator . . . . . . . . . . 28Engine Cooling Water TemperatureIndicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Low Battery Voltage Indicator . . . . . . . . 30Fuel Gauge and Low Fuel Indicator . . . . 31Digital Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Controls & Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34ID Lock System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Limit Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39Start Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40Engine Stop Button/Switch . . . . . . . . . . . 40Safety Lanyard & Lock Clip . . . . . . . . . . 41Handlebar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42Throttle Lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42Reverse Lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43Jet Pump Water Intake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44Cooling Water Bypass Outlet . . . . . . . . . 44Bilge Drain Plugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45Flushing Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45Jet Pump Steering Nozzle . . . . . . . . . . . . 46Bow & Stern Eyelets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47Grab Rail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

BEFORE RIDING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49Are You Ready to Ride? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Protective Apparel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50Operator Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Is Your PWC Ready to Ride? . . . . . . . . . . . . 54Pre-ride Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Table of Contents 225

Table of Contents

Load Limits & Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59Load Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59Loading Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Cargo Compartments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61Glove Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61Front Storage Compartment . . . . . . . . . . 62Fire Extinguisher Compartment . . . . . . . 64

BASIC OPERATION & RIDING . . . . . 65Safe Riding Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66PWC Propulsion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67Navigation Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68Starting & Stopping the Engine . . . . . . . . . 72

Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72Starting Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73Flooded Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75How to Stop the Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Launching & Boarding Your PWC . . . . . . 78Launching from a Ramp . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78Boarding from a Dock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79Boarding in Shallow Water . . . . . . . . . . . 80Boarding in Deep Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Boarding with Passengers . . . . . . . . . . . . 83Your First Ride . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85Turning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Off-Throttle Steering (OTS) . . . . . . . . . . 88Reverse Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89Stopping/Docking/Beaching . . . . . . . . . . . 91Riding with Passengers or Cargo . . . . . . . . 93Towing a Water Skier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94Post-Ride Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

SERVICING YOUR HONDA . . . . . . . . .99Before You Service Your HondaThe Importance of Maintenance . . . . . . . 102Maintenance Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Important Safety Precautions . . . . . . . . 104Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105Maintenance Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Table of Contents226

Table of Contents

SERVICING YOUR HONDA (cont’d)Service PreparationsComponent Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110Tool Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113Owner’s Manual Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114Seat Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Service ProceduresFluids, Filters & LubricantsFuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117Engine Oil & Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120Air Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132Lubrication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

EngineThrottle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141Engine Idle Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144Spark Plugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145Engine Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149

HullBilge Drain System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153

Steering & Propulsion SystemOff-throttle Steering System . . . . . . . . . . 155

ElectricalBattery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157

Appearance Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162

TIPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165Storing Your Honda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166Transporting Your PWC . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173You & the Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174

Table of Contents 227

Table of Contents

TAKING CARE OF THE UNEXPECTED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177General Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178If Your Engine Quits or Won't Start . . . . . 179If Your Engine Overheats . . . . . . . . . . . . 182If the Low Oil Pressure Indicator Lights . 183If a Fuse Blows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184If You Have a Collision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188If Your PWC Must Be Towed . . . . . . . . . . 189If You Capsize . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190If Your PWC Is Submerged . . . . . . . . . . . . 192If the Intake or Propulsion System Is Clogged . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194If Your Battery Is Low (or Dead) . . . . . . 196

TECHNICAL INFORMATION . . . . . . 197Vehicle Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201Break-in Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205Emission Control Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . 206Star Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209Oxygenated Fuels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212

CONSUMER INFORMATION . . . . . . 215Authorized Manuals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216Warranty Coverage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219Warranty Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220Contacting Honda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221Your Honda PWC Dealer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 222Reporting Safety Defects (USA only) . . 223

TABLE OF CONTENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . 224

INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 228

QUICK REFERENCE

Index228

Air Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132American Honda, contacting . . . . . . . . . . 221apparel, protective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50appearance care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162authorized manuals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216

battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157beaching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92bilge,

drain plugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45drain system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153

boarding,from a dock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79in deep water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81in shallow water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80with passengers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

break-in guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205button,

ID No. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27ID SET . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27MODE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26SET . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

capacity, fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118capsize, if you . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190care, appearance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162color label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200compartment,

fire extinguisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64storage, front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62tool kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

component locations,instruments and controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

consumer information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215

Index

A

B

C

Index 229

cooling water bypass outlet . . . . . . . . . . . . 44customer service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221

defects, safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 223digital clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32display, multi-function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19docking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

emission control systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206engine,

cooling system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149flooded . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75idle speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144low oil pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

overheats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 182start button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72stop button/switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40stopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91won't start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179

environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174eyelets, bow and stern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

fire extinguisher compartment . . . . . . . . . .64flooded engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75flushing,

connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150

fuel,oxygenated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212recommendation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117tank capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184

Index

F

D

E

Index230

Index

gap, spark plug . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148gasohol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212gasoline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117gauge, fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31glove box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Honda,contacting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221dealer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 222service manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216

ID,lock system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34No. button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27SET button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

identification, hull . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198idle speed, engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144indicator,

engine cooling water temperature . . . 22, 29limit mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22, 39low battery voltage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21, 30low fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25, 31low oil pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22, 28PGM-FI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

inspection, pre-ride . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54intake/propulsion system, cleaning . . . . . .194

H

G I

Index 231

Index

jet pump,steering nozzle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46water intake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

kit, tool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

labels, safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6launching & boarding your PWC . . . . . . . 78launching from a ramp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78limit mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39limit, weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59load limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59loading guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

locations, component,instuments and controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

lubrication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

maintenance,importance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102post-ride . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

manual, service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216maximum weight limit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59multi-function,

display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

J

K

L

M

Index232

Index

navigation rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68numbers, serial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198

off-throttle steering system . . . . . . . . . . . . 88oil,

engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121low pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22, 28

operating controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34overheat, engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 182owner's manual storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114oxygenated fuels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212

plugs, spark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145

post-ride maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96pre-ride inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54problems, unexpected . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .177propulsion, PWC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67protective apparel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

removal,seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

reporting safety defects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 223reverse,

bucket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

ride, your first . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85rider training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53riding,

basic operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65gear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

N

O

P

R

Index 233

Index

safety precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66with passengers and cargo . . . . . . . . . . . 93

rules, navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

safety lanyard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41safety,

important precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6reporting defects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 223riding precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

schedule, maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105seat removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115serial numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198service,

customer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221manuals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220

spark plugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201

speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25star label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209start button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40starting,

engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180

steering, off-throttle system . . . . . . . . . . . . 88stop button/switch, engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40stopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91stopping engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76storage,

compartment, front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62owner's manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114personal watercraft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166

submerged, if your PWC is . . . . . . . . . . . 192

throttle lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42time meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24tool kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

T

S

Index234

Index

training, rider . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53transporting your PWC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173tripmeter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24troubleshooting, starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179turning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

vehicle identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198

warranty,coverage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219extended . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220

washing your PWC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163PWC propulsion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67weight limit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

your first ride . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

V

W

Y

Quick Reference

Quick Reference

The following is a brief, but importantcollection of information you need to knowabout your Honda. You'll also find space torecord important notes.

The engine of your Honda can be the mostexpensive component to repair. Propermaintenance, especially the use of therecommended fluids and filters, preventspremature wear and damage.

Frequent causes of costly repairs are:• Engine oil: Check the level frequently.

Make sure you're using the recommendedoil.

• Water cooling bypass outlet: Check theoutlet frequently to make sure nothing isclogging the engine's cooling system.

How To Avoid Costly Repairs

Quick Reference

Quick Reference

• Bilge drain plugs: Check both plugs aresecure before each ride to avoid possibleengine damage from water (especially saltwater) in the engine compartment.

• Jet pump water intake: Avoid debris such assand, weeds, or rocks which can damage thepropulsion system.

• Improper towing: Always tow your PWC ina forward direction with bow eyelet, at aslow speed (under 10 mph).

Record important information on thefollowing page:

Quick Reference

Quick Reference

Registration No.Hull Identification No.Engine Identification No.Color LabelOwner's Name

AddressCity/StatePhone

Dealer's NameAddressCity/StatePhoneService Mgr.

Initial: 10 hoursRegular: every 100 hours or 6 monthCheck the following items each time before you ride (page 54) . Jet pump water intake, hull, bilge drain plugs, loose parts, latches, enginecompartment, engine oil, fuel and oil leaks, bilge, reverse system, startcheck, fuel level, handlebar, throttle lever, lock clipUnleaded premium gasoline, pump octane number 91 or higher16.64 US gal (63.0R)API Service Classification SG or higher except oils labeled as energyconserving on the API service label. SAE 10W-40, JASO 4T Standard MAor MB, Pro Honda GN4, HP4 or HP4M 4-stroke oil or equivalent524 lbs (238 kg)rider, passengers, all cargo and accessoriesstandard: IMR9D-9Hmain: 30 Aother: 5 A, 7.5 A

Quick Reference

Quick Reference

Scheduled Maintenance

Pre-ride Inspection

Fuel/Capacity

Engine Oil

Maximum WeightCapacitySpark PlugsFuses