How does a Berkeley jet drive work?
A Berkeley Jet Drive is essentially a water pump, powered by a marinized automotive engine. The system creates propulsion thrust by taking water in through an intake in the bottom of the boat, sending it past an internal rotating impeller, and then expelling the water out through a nozzle behind the transom.
How long do jet boat motors last?
An engine’s weight and horsepower can impact the performance and the longevity of your motor. How Long Do Boat Motors Last? Boat motors typically last at least 2,000-3,000 hours before they need serious maintenance. Inboard motors will sometimes last longer because they are more protected from wear and tear.
Are jet boats good for Lakes?
As mentioned above, they’re great in shallow waters, but inboard jets can also be backed up on to beaches given the absence of any protruding parts including rudders. At very high speeds jet drives have been documented as being more efficient than props, and they’re certainly quicker to accelerate.
Can you run a Berkeley jet out of water?
A: Running the Berkeley out of the water: A Berkeley pump can be run out of the water as it has a greased thrust bearing and lubricated tailshaft bushings. The only issues with running out of the water is that after about 15 to 20 minutes the bowl seal can get hot from lack of cooling and cause seal damage.
How do you winterize a Berkeley jet pump?
Take the engine water inlet hose loose from the jet drive. Pump the antifreeze in with a bilge pump until it comes out of the exhaust antifreeze color; OR, add a piece of hose to the engine water inlet hose, (extend it somehow), to where you can raise the hose above the engine level.
Can a jet boat go in the ocean?
Jet boats can work in saltwater, but it comes with drawbacks. For one, they are not equipped with the right gear to handle saltwater, so you may experience slower speeds or more resistance in steering. In addition, without proper maintenance after a saltwater trip, they may see long-term damage.
How shallow can a jet boat go?
A conventional river-going jetboat will have a shallow-angled (but not flat-bottomed) hull to improve its high-speed cornering control and stability, while also allowing it to traverse very shallow water. At speed, jetboats can be safely operated in less than 7.5 cm (3 inches) of water.
Is it bad to start a jet boat out of water?
The only issues with running out of the water is that after about 15 to 20 minutes the bowl seal can get hot from lack of cooling and cause seal damage. The packing gland may have to be re-tightened when the boat is used the next time as well. And there you have it.
How many drives does a Berkeley jet drive have?
Today Berkeley offers four 12J drives, each a little different but incorporating essentially the same basic features and using, where possible, many of the same parts for interchangeability. … 12 Inch Steering Tube for Jetovator.
What kind of pump does Berkeley jet drive use?
Starting with Berkeley’s unique single stage mixed flow impeller that produces maximum thrust per horsepower. The 12JI Pump also incorporates a special trimming device allowing you to adjust your boat’s attitude while underway through the use of a manual control. A hydraulic control is optional.
What kind of steering tube does Berkeley jet use?
12 Inch Steering Tube for Jetovator. This kit is for hooking up your forward reverse cable with all the correct parts from Berkeley Jet This kit includes all of the needed gaskets and O-rings to bring your jet drive back from the dead. Rudder for the 12JF jet pump.
Which is better a sterndrive or a jet drive?
Simply put, a jet drive receives more of an engine’s power than sterndrive or outboard powertrains. Pretty geeky engine stuff, yes, but part of the jet drive’s advantage, for sure.