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| Once upon a time in
a galaxy far, far away ... Wait, scratch that. Space, the final frontier, these are the
voyages of ... Whether or not you are fan of Star Trek, if you're a PWC enthusiast you probably can appreciate the end-result of this'92 Kawasaki JS550. One glance at the craft and you'd assume its owner Steve Spon is a devoted "Trekkie". Not true, though he admits there's nothing better than taking in an old sci-fi movie. It was first officer Johnny "Blowsion" Dady, proprietor of Blowsion Kolors who actually first came up with the idea.
Sporting airbrushed renderings of the Starship Enterprise, the craft attracts just as much attention off the water as it does on. After a quick sketch on paper, the ski was stripped of its original paint and decals before receiving several coats of midnight black. Using what Dady describes as a special technique, hundreds of tiny stars were expertly painted splattered over its dark base instantly creating an illusion of outer space. |
Also brilliantly airbrushed into the graphics are various starbursts, spacey backdrops and the Star Trek federation insignia, not to mention artistically painted registration numbers. Even at close inspection, a job well executed. Quite possible of warp speeds, the engine is completely rebuilt, boasting a plethora of aftermarket parts and accessories. With Chief Engineer Randy Jungwirth of Watercraft Connection responsible for its handiwork, the 550 powerplant features Wiseco pistons, balanced crank, ported and polished intake, Boysen reeds, Westcoast head and a Mikuni 44mm carb with a K&N air filter. Spent exhaust is properly routed by way of a Westcoast manifold, waterbox and pipe. Once completed, the timing also was advanced by 2mm for best all around results. |
Without giving a
second thought, the entire pump assembly was rebuilt. Utilizing a bored nozzle, maximum
thrust is achieved through the use of a Skat-Trak progressive pitch impeller, PJS deep
scoop grate and an Ocean Pro rideplate. Preventing any unwanted hull stress, a pair of Jettrim nose braces were installed as well as other finishing touches including an electric bilge pump, Westcoast 7 degree bars, finger-style trigger throttle, matching grips and a handlepole limiting strap.
Of the many ride spots near his Tigard, Oregon hometown, Steve says he prefers the excitement of the coastal surf and makes a ritual of riding his custom-built 550 on a regular basis.
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 model: Amy Lowenberg |
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