Complete Guide to Seadoo Spark Tuning and Modification for More Speed and Power

Introduction to Seadoo Spark Tuning

Seadoo Spark jet skis have become incredibly popular in recent years for their affordability, ease of use, and fun performance. However, many Spark owners are looking to get a little more power and speed out of their ride. This guide will provide an overview of the most effective ways to tune and modify a Seadoo Spark for optimal performance.

Benefits of Tuning Your Seadoo Spark

There are several key benefits to tuning your Seadoo Spark:

• Improved acceleration and top speed - A tuned Spark can reach speeds over 50 mph.
• Better holeshot - More low-end power allows you to get on plane faster.
• Enhanced handling and control - Engine and suspension mods lead to better overall performance.
• More fun! - More power equals bigger thrills on the water.

Spark Engine Tuning Basics

The Seadoo Spark is powered by a Rotax 900 HO ACE engine in either a 2-up or 3-up configuration. This engine features great stock performance, but can be optimized further with these modifications:

• Exhaust Modification - Aftermarket exhaust manifolds, catalyst removals, and free-flowing pipes significantly boost mid-range and top-end power.
• ECM Tuning - Re-flashing the ECM (engine control module) optimizes spark timing, fuel delivery, and rev limiters for more power.
• Air Intakes - Upgraded air filters and velocity stacks increase airflow to the engine for more boost.
• Intercooler Kits - Larger intercoolers reduce intake temperatures leading to denser, cooler air for better combustion.

Essential Handling Upgrades

In addition to engine tuning, upgrading certain components of the Spark's chassis and handling dynamics is recommended:

• Ride Plates - Also known as 'pump stiffeners', ride plates prevent prop flex and improve handling.
• Adjustable Sponsons - Wider, more angled sponsons add needed cornering grip andstability.
• Riser Wedges - Raise and angle the handlepole for a more aggressive riding position.
• Shock Upgrade - Stiffer aftermarket shocks prevent bottoming out and increase control.

Top Seadoo Spark Tuning Modifications

Here are some of the best bolt-on mods for maximizing Spark performance:

Boyésen Reeds

Upgrading to performance reeds like those offered by Boyesen yields up to a 7hp gain. Their Rad Valve technology optimizes intake flow throughout the powerband.

Riva Stage 1 Velocity Stack Kit

This easy to install kit adds 5hp by optimizing airflow into the engine. It includes a high-flow cone style filter and velocity stack intake.

Sport Series Steering System

The Sport Series racing steering system tightens up handling and gives more precise cornering. It reduces steering effort by 45%.

Hydro Turf Mat Kit

Adding Hydro Turf traction mats to the gunnels and floorboard creates much better grip for more control when cornering hard and riding aggressively.

Advanced Tuning Options

More advanced Spark owners looking to maximize performance can consider these tuning options:

ECM Reflashes

Companies like Boisjoli Performance offer custom ECM reflashing services that optimize the fuel map, rev limiters, timing, and other parameters. This can yield 8+ hp gains on a stock Spark.

Cylinder Head Porting

Extensive port and polish jobs on the cylinder heads along with head machining can bump up compression and improve airflow substantially. But this is a more labor intensive mod.

Big Bore Kits

For maximum power, upgrading to an aftermarket 1000cc big bore kit can boost horses up near 100 hp. But this mod also requires more extensive engine work.

Turbocharging/Supercharging

Forced induction via turbo or supercharger kits represent the ultimate in power gains. But they also alter the powerband significantly and are complicated to install.

Key Tuning Considerations

When modifying and tuning your Seadoo Spark, here are some important factors to keep in mind:

• Only use high quality parts from reputable manufacturers.
• Adjust carburetion properly after making significant performance mods.
• Upgrade the cooling system components if adding extensive power.
• Match intake, exhaust, and ECM changes to work synergistically.
• Monitor engine temps and watch for detonation after tuning.
• Consider engine internals like rods if going beyond 75 hp.

Getting Peak Performance From Your Spark

While the Seadoo Spark is an incredibly fun machine in stock form, it can be made even better with some smart tuning mods and upgrades. Focus on the intake, exhaust, ECM, and handling components first to get the maximum bang for your buck without excessive engine work. But advanced modifications like head porting, big bore kits, and forced induction can unlock the Spark's full performance potential for experienced riders. Just make sure to do proper research and work with knowledgeable professionals. With the right modifications and careful tuning, your Seadoo Spark can reach extraordinary new levels of speed and power!

FAQs

What is the easiest first modification I can do to my Spark?

The easiest place to start is by installing an aftermarket intake like the Riva velocity stack kit. This simple bolt-on mod boosts acceleration right off idle for improved holeshots and more mid-range punch.

What exhaust setup should I run on my tuned Spark?

A good budget-friendly option is the Fast Frank exhaust manifold paired with the ScooterXhaust titanium canister. This boosts the powerband substantially without breaking the bank. For max gains, the Riva open exhaust system delivers great performance but at a higher cost.

How much ECM tuning can improve performance?

An ECM reflash alone can add up to 8 hp on a stock Spark. It lets you optimize timing, fuel delivery, rev limiters, and other parameters to take full advantage of mods like intakes and exhausts.

What handling mod makes the biggest difference?

Upgrading to a performance ride plate noticeably tightens up the handling characteristics. It reduces flex and improves cornering grip, especially when riding aggressively. The Sport Series plate from Solas/Riva is a top option.

Is the big bore kit worth it for the Spark?

For top level performance, stepping up to a big bore 1000cc kit like those from Fast Frank can boost output to around 100 hp. But it also requires more complicated engine work. Make this mod only if you're ready to radically transform your Spark.