Python Problems?

[Phoneman1031]

Hey Guys,
I have a chance to buy a 1999 Ski Nautique with the 502 Python. The boat has 752 hours. Just wondering what I should look for when I go check the boat out? If I do end up purchasing, what will I have to do in the near future? I have done some Internet searches, but haven't found any people having major problems with the python.
Thanks!!

[swc5150]

If wakeslayer doesn't see this post, send him a PM. He's a great resource for all that is Python.

[bchesley]

If you are looking for a reason not to buy it, definately do not go drive it. You will be instantly hooked. As long as you take care of it, it will be as reliable as any other nautique. The 502 is pretty simple compared to the 496 version. It has a simple ignition system with just one coil and a typical delco distributor. It uses pretty much the exact same wiring harness and a gt-40. I wouldn't hesitate buying another as long as the boat was maintained.

[east tx skier]

It wouldn't happen to be a white boat with red flake striping, would it? If so, I was a day late and a dollar short buying that boat several years ago (it was on Buxton's site and I called after it had been sold).

[swc5150]

I understand they have a greater propensity to use oil, when compared to the small block counterparts. As mentioned, a well maintained python would be a good buy. They have neck-snapping power!

[Phoneman1031]

No, it's not the same one.
The seller told me it has been well maintained and he has never had any problems. The interior needs some work which is fine with me. How about fuel usage compared to the small block? I know it will be more, but how much more?
I am also worried that 752 hours is kinda high.
Thanks for the info guys.

[Chexi]

For weighted wakeboard boats, fuel usage is reported to be about the same. For ski boats with no extra weight, I don't know.

[NautiDave07]

Those hours don't sound high to me. If the boat is a 99 it was probably delivered end of summer 98. That is 13 summers of use give or take. That would be like 55-60hrs a summer. I would consider that bellow average where I live. Around here most would do 60-100hrs a year under weekend use.

[bchesley]

The problem with fuel usage is the permagrin you get when its held at WOT. As for normal usage its about the same. The torque the motor produces allows it to use a lower RPM to deliver the same power. When the big block is at a lower RPM it uses a similar about of fuel as a small block with a higher RPM. I have nicknamed my boat the diesel. It rattles the platform so bad the motor sounds like a diesel and has diesel like torque (515+/- ftlbs). Its a beast........

[swc5150]

A little SN with that big block has to be a blast to drive! I wonder if this boat was originally ordered for ski show use, or if it was just someone wanting wicked power?

[DanielC]

The Python was used for two reasons, I believe. The first was an experiment in Ski Fly, a variant of ski jumping, allowing higher top speeds to the ramp, and a longer, shallower, ramp. I think the distance for Ski Fly is around 299 Feet.
The second reason, in 1998, there was a "horsepower war" going on. Everybody was doing minor tweaks to the engines in tow boats. 285 Hp, 305HP, 310 HP, 320 HP. It seemed as soon as one boat company listed specs on an engine another company would release a slightly higher horsepower engine.
So, in a world filled with 320 HP boats, Correct Craft dropped a 430 HP monster.

I got to drive a 502 Python in a 1999 Ski Nautique. The engine was still being being broken in, and so I would not hold WOT longer than about 5 to 10 seconds, near max RPM. The boat effortlessly went over 52 or 53 MPH, and was still speeding faster, when I closed the throttle.

My ski team also used the boat in a ski show. Great boat for barefoot lines. Also pulled our 14 person final pyramid with the boat.

It was weird skiing behind the boat. You could hear the exhaust, (no muffler, dual pipes) and the engine rpm just seemed way to low, for the speed you were going.