The Polaris Virage 1200 Tx, a personal watercraft (PWC) from the late 1990s, offered a thrilling ride with its powerful engine and sleek design. However, like any machine of its era, the Virage 1200 Tx isn't without its quirks and potential pitfalls. Knowing these common issues, and how to address them, is crucial for keeping your vintage PWC running smoothly and enjoying its performance for years to come.

Is Your Virage Acting Up? Common Culprits and Solutions

Let's dive into some of the most frequently reported problems with the Polaris Virage 1200 Tx, along with practical advice to help you diagnose and hopefully resolve them.

1. The Dreaded Carburetor Conundrum

The Mikuni BN44 carburetors on the Virage 1200 Tx are known to be finicky. They're sensitive to fuel quality and can easily become clogged, leading to poor performance, hard starting, or even stalling.

  • Symptoms: Hesitation on acceleration, rough idling, difficulty starting, engine stalling, poor fuel economy.

  • Possible Causes:

    • Dirty Carburetors: The most common culprit. Old fuel can leave behind varnish and deposits that clog jets and passages.
    • Incorrect Carburetor Settings: The idle mixture screws, high-speed jets, and pop-off pressure need to be properly adjusted.
    • Vacuum Leaks: Cracks or loose connections in the intake manifold or carburetor boots can disrupt the air/fuel mixture.

  • Troubleshooting and Solutions:

    • Carburetor Cleaning: This is often the first step. Disassemble the carburetors, soak them in carburetor cleaner, and carefully clean all jets and passages with compressed air and small wires. A carburetor rebuild kit with new gaskets and diaphragms is highly recommended.
    • Carburetor Adjustment: Refer to the Polaris service manual for the correct carburetor settings. A vacuum gauge can be helpful for fine-tuning the idle mixture.
    • Inspect and Replace Vacuum Lines: Check all vacuum lines and intake boots for cracks or leaks. Replace any damaged components.
    • Fuel Filter: Ensure the fuel filter is clean and flowing freely. A clogged fuel filter can starve the engine of fuel.
    • Fuel Pump: Test the fuel pump to ensure it's delivering adequate fuel pressure.

2. Electrical Gremlins: When Sparks Don't Fly

Older PWCs are prone to electrical issues due to corrosion, worn wiring, and failing components. The Virage 1200 Tx is no exception.

  • Symptoms: No spark, intermittent spark, weak spark, engine not turning over, blown fuses.

  • Possible Causes:

    • Faulty Ignition Coil: The ignition coil provides the high voltage needed to create a spark.
    • Bad Stator: The stator generates the electricity needed to power the ignition system.
    • Defective CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) Module: The CDI module controls the timing and intensity of the spark.
    • Corroded Connections: Corrosion on wiring connectors and ground points can impede electrical flow.
    • Faulty Start/Stop Switch: A malfunctioning start/stop switch can prevent the engine from starting.
    • Weak Battery: While it's a 2-stroke, a weak battery can still cause starting issues.

  • Troubleshooting and Solutions:

    • Spark Plug Test: Check for spark by removing a spark plug, grounding it to the engine block, and cranking the engine. If there's no spark, or the spark is weak, investigate the ignition system.
    • Ignition Coil Test: Use a multimeter to test the resistance of the ignition coil. Compare the readings to the specifications in the service manual.
    • Stator Test: Similarly, test the stator's resistance and output voltage with a multimeter.
    • CDI Module Test: Testing the CDI module can be more complex and may require specialized equipment.
    • Clean and Inspect Connections: Thoroughly clean all electrical connections with a wire brush and apply dielectric grease to prevent corrosion.
    • Check Fuses: Inspect all fuses and replace any that are blown. Determine the cause of the blown fuse before replacing it to prevent recurrence.
    • Battery Condition: Ensure the battery is fully charged and in good condition. Have it load tested to verify its ability to deliver sufficient current.

3. Overheating Headaches: Keeping Cool Under Pressure

Overheating can cause serious engine damage. The Virage 1200 Tx relies on water cooling to maintain optimal operating temperatures.

  • Symptoms: Engine overheating warning light, steam coming from the engine compartment, loss of power, engine stalling.

  • Possible Causes:

    • Clogged Cooling System: Debris, salt, and corrosion can restrict water flow through the cooling passages.
    • Faulty Thermostat: A malfunctioning thermostat can prevent proper cooling.
    • Water Leaks: Leaks in the cooling system can reduce water pressure and cooling efficiency.
    • Damaged Impeller: The impeller draws water into the cooling system. Damage to the impeller can reduce water flow.
    • Air Lock: Air trapped in the cooling system can impede water circulation.

  • Troubleshooting and Solutions:

    • Flush the Cooling System: Flush the cooling system with fresh water or a cooling system flush solution to remove debris and corrosion.
    • Inspect the Thermostat: Remove the thermostat and test it in a pot of hot water. It should open at the specified temperature. Replace it if it's not functioning properly.
    • Check for Leaks: Inspect all hoses, connections, and the water pump for leaks. Repair or replace any leaking components.
    • Inspect the Impeller: Remove the impeller and inspect it for damage. Replace it if it's worn or broken.
    • Bleed the Cooling System: After refilling the cooling system, bleed any trapped air by opening the bleed screws on the engine.

4. Jet Pump Jitters: When Propulsion Falters

The jet pump is responsible for propelling the PWC through the water. Problems with the jet pump can significantly impact performance.

  • Symptoms: Loss of power, poor acceleration, cavitation (the pump sucking air), excessive vibration.

  • Possible Causes:

    • Worn Wear Ring: The wear ring surrounds the impeller and creates a tight seal. A worn wear ring allows water to leak past the impeller, reducing thrust.
    • Damaged Impeller: Dents, bends, or cracks in the impeller blades can reduce pump efficiency.
    • Debris in the Pump: Rocks, weeds, or other debris can become lodged in the pump, obstructing water flow.
    • Loose or Damaged Jet Pump Housing: Damage to the jet pump housing can affect pump performance.

  • Troubleshooting and Solutions:

    • Inspect the Wear Ring: Check the wear ring for wear and damage. Replace it if the clearance between the impeller and wear ring is excessive (typically more than 0.040 inches).
    • Inspect the Impeller: Examine the impeller blades for damage. Replace the impeller if it's bent, cracked, or significantly worn.
    • Remove Debris: Carefully remove any debris from the jet pump.
    • Inspect the Jet Pump Housing: Check the jet pump housing for cracks or damage. Repair or replace the housing as needed.

5. Oil Injection Omissions: Ensuring Proper Lubrication

The Virage 1200 Tx uses an oil injection system to lubricate the engine. A malfunctioning oil injection system can lead to catastrophic engine failure.

  • Symptoms: Excessive smoke, insufficient smoke, engine seizure, oil light illumination.

  • Possible Causes:

    • Clogged Oil Lines: Oil lines can become clogged with old oil or debris, restricting oil flow.
    • Faulty Oil Pump: The oil pump may fail to deliver the correct amount of oil.
    • Air in the Oil Lines: Air bubbles in the oil lines can disrupt oil flow.
    • Incorrect Oil: Using the wrong type of oil can cause problems with the oil injection system.

  • Troubleshooting and Solutions:

    • Inspect Oil Lines: Check all oil lines for clogs or kinks. Clean or replace any damaged lines.
    • Test the Oil Pump: Test the oil pump to ensure it's delivering the correct amount of oil at different engine speeds. Refer to the service manual for specifications.
    • Bleed the Oil Lines: Bleed any air from the oil lines by opening the bleed screws on the oil pump.
    • Use the Correct Oil: Use a high-quality two-stroke oil specifically designed for PWCs.

Preventive Maintenance: The Key to Longevity

The best way to avoid these problems is to perform regular preventive maintenance. This includes:

  • Regularly changing the fuel filter.
  • Using fresh, high-octane fuel.
  • Storing the PWC properly during the off-season.
  • Inspecting and cleaning the jet pump and cooling system.
  • Lubricating all moving parts.
  • Following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why is my Virage 1200 Tx hard to start? Clogged carburetors or a weak ignition system are common causes. Clean the carburetors and check the spark plugs and ignition components.
  • What kind of oil should I use in my Virage 1200 Tx? Use a high-quality two-stroke oil specifically designed for PWCs. Avoid automotive two-stroke oil.
  • How often should I change the spark plugs? Spark plugs should be replaced annually or every 100 hours of use, whichever comes first.
  • My Virage 1200 Tx is overheating. What should I do? Stop riding immediately and check the cooling system for clogs, leaks, or a faulty thermostat.
  • Where can I find parts for my Virage 1200 Tx? Many online retailers specialize in PWC parts, and some local dealerships may still carry parts for older models.

Keep Your Virage Alive!

The Polaris Virage 1200 Tx offers a classic PWC experience. By understanding its common problems and performing regular maintenance, you can keep your Virage 1200 Tx running strong for many years to come; consult your service manual for specific instructions.