Jet skis and other personal watercraft (PWCs) often “spit water” or expel water forcefully from various outlets while operating.
This phenomenon is a normal part of their design and function, serving several important purposes…
Cooling System
- Engine Cooling
- The water expelled from the rear of the jet ski primarily cools the engine. Jet skis use “direct water cooling” or “water injection cooling.” This involves drawing water from the surrounding body of water into the jet propulsion system to cool the engine and prevent overheating.
- Exhaust Cooling
- Some of the water expelled may also come from the exhaust system, helping to cool the hot gases exiting the engine.
Thrust and Maneuverability
- Thrust Control
- Modern jet skis use a nozzle at the rear that can be adjusted to direct the water flow. This nozzle can tilt up or down to control the thrust direction, aiding in steering and maneuvering.
- Reverse Thrust
- When the jet ski operator engages reverse thrust (by redirecting some of the jet stream forward and downward), it also expels water forcefully, helping to slow down or reverse the jet ski’s direction.
Normal Operation
- Water spitting or expulsion is, therefore, a normal and essential part of a jet ski’s operation. It ensures that the engine remains cool and the propulsion system functions efficiently while providing necessary control over the direction and speed of the watercraft.
Jet skis spit water primarily to cool the engine and exhaust systems and to provide control over thrust and maneuverability. This process is integral to the safe and efficient operation of jet skis, helping to maintain performance while ensuring the engine’s and other components’ longevity.
