96 780 stl

[dieselman]

Ok I am sure this has been asked but I need to know is it worth buying a 96 780 stl in mint shape for $2500 cover and trailer inc. And what do I have to watch for on this old of a ski also how much HP is this motor and how fast is it . Thanks in advance

[xlint89]

Welcome to the Hulk Diesel. A SLT 780 is a nice ski. They have 90+ HP and run low 50's. Watch for low compression (120 is normal) and the fuel systems need to be watched. You can update the fuel system pretty cheaply and you'll have a reliable ski for a long while. The price seems a bit high though. See if you can get the price down some.

[johnsonmtz]

I have the exact same ski. The 780 makes pretty decent power and hull rides very smooth. You have to work pretty hard to carve it up and they don't jump too well, but it's a very nice ride.

The oil pumps can be questionable on old skis, so converting to premix might be something to consider. Also, the fuel lines can get mushy, so replacing those would be good to avoid potential problems.

These came with a tripple outlet fuel pump, so nothing to update there. I don't believe these had any trouble with the fuel shutoff, but someone else can verify that.

$2500 is high for an 11 year old ski. Even if it's in mint shape NADA says this ski is worth $1000 I don't think I'd give over $1800 for the ski and trailer.

[Tony]

I don't believe these had any trouble with the fuel shutoff, but someone else can verify that.

$2500 is high for an 11 year old ski. Even if it's in mint shape NADA says this ski is worth $1000 I don't think I'd give over $1800 for the ski and trailer.

Restriction in my selector fried 3 cylinders on my 780. Run premix and get a WSM 3 position selector valve (part # 006-600) so you can use the oil tank as a reserve.

I paid $1050.00 for my '96 w/trailer in VG condition...I now have about $1650.00 in it with a fresh top end and a completely new fuel system.

[dieselman]

Thanks Guys I will pass this one up. The owner said firm at $2500.00 but says it only has 21 hrs on it and thay are the second owners that got it less than 2 yrs ago.