Limp Mode with 2002 Air Nautique (GT40)

[Huffy2k]

This weekend my 2002 Air Nautique developed some engine trouble as we were about to enjoy the first nice weekend this summer.

When pulling the first wakeboarder out of the water, the engine began surging at about 3000 RPM. The check engine light came on and remained on and we were able to idle back to the dock. After emptying ballast tanks and fat sacks and checking oil level, impeller, and fresh water filter, we pulled out (at our mechanics suggestion) to see if the same behavior occurred. It did. Engine began surging and backing off at about 3000 RPM, Oil pressure was about 24 and temperature was about 160.

My mechanic suspects a bad fuel pump or a bad sensor that he said "throws the boat into Limp Mode". Any thoughts, anyone ever hear of limp mode?

[tiqueman97]

RE: Limp Mode with 2002 Air Nautique (GT40)

My 97 GT-40 did the some thing not long ago. One of the temp switches went bad and was faulting to ground which tripped the SLOW circuit. I ended up replacing both the sender and the switch (one is on the intake manifold and ones on the circulating pump) I ordered them from skidim.com and everything worked great for the next weekend. Hope yours is as easy!

[2gofaster]

RE: Limp Mode with 2002 Air Nautique (GT40)

The air temp sensor in the intake base is usually the culprit in such instances.

[tiqueman97]

RE: Limp Mode with 2002 Air Nautique (GT40)

SLOW being LIMP mode. Sorry, Ive heard it called both...

[M3Fan]

RE: Limp Mode with 2002 Air Nautique (GT40)

Is there any way to "fool" the system so that a weekend could be saved if such an event occurs? Just curious.

[tiqueman97]

RE: Limp Mode with 2002 Air Nautique (GT40)

Im not one who likes to "fool" with stuff, especially on my boat... HOWEVER... :grin: once I figured out it was only a faulty sensor that went bad and grounded itself out, and after talking w/ a trustworthy mechanic, I did ride for an afternoon by disconnecting the sensor. But I would not recommend it unless you are absolutely certain that you know the problem. I must have put my hands on my engine about evertime we stopped just to check it because I was a bit paranoid to say the least.

My real advice, if youve found the problem, order the part asap and expedite the shipping.

[2gofaster]

RE: Limp Mode with 2002 Air Nautique (GT40)

The air temp sensor is a common part for Fords. You can get it at any parts store by telling them a 93 Ford Lightning with the 5.8L engine.