Freestyle watercrafts put significantly more stress on coupler covers than typical rec riding. Over time we noticed repeated failures of both OEM and aftermarket couplers. This project started as a root cause analysis to understand why coupler covers fail and what a proper long term solution should look like.
Problems: Coupler Cover Failures
The couppler sits in a difficult environment
Over time several commen failure modes appear
OEM Cover issues
Oem Coupler covers are typically Rigid injection molded plastic
Common problems:
- Tight fitting making installation difficult or impossible in aftermarket hulls
- material becomes brittle over time
- cracking from engine movement
- covers can shatter
many riders run become frustrated and end up running without them because of repeated failures
Aftermarket Coupler Covers (Carbon)
Some aftermarket solutions attempt to solve the problem with carbon fiber
While strong and resistive to cracking they introduced other issues:
-Carbon wears thru aluminum case mounts rapidly
-Rigid structure tramsits vibration
– Cover can rattle during installation
– Poor water deflection design around edge and along coupler
– Unsupported at one end can increase vibration
These designs often solveone problem while creating new ones
Engineering solution
The Weeks Brothers Coupler cover was designed around flexability and durability rather than something solid and ridged.
Key Design features:
-Slim Flexable construction for easy installation
-Non Ridged material eliminates and dampens vibrations
-Extended edges to help deflect water from spraying carbs
-Reinforced sealing area near engine to deflect water
-Durable mounting zones designed to prevent cracking by remaining firm yet flexable
-easibly trimable rubber for custom setups and applications
-new ASA bushings and hardware for a fresh look
-Zip tie mount for securing lines that run over the cover
-supported midshaft end is designed to prevent vibrations and extend life of bushings and mounts
The goal was a cvover that could be installed easily, removed reperatedly and survive real freestyle riding by the top riders in the sport
Teating and Development
Prototype covers were tested for over a year in freestyle riding conditions by the most agressive riders
The result was a design that remained quiet, durable, easy to remove and install, and protected your motor from water. These covers are now availible for riders who want a long term solution to coupler cover failure and water intrustion.
Ongoing development
Engineering development never stops.
A pro design is currently being tested which extends the sides down even further on both sides for the maximum water deflection protection for those who demand the very best. Stay tuned for more!
Failed OEM and AM Coupler cover pictures
Pending uploads
Reccommended Solution
The Weeks Brothers Flexible coupler cover was designed to solve the durability and vibration issues common with OEM and aftermarket couplers while improving engine sealing and water deflection. We only reccommend this cover for your ski!
Photos of Our Coupler Cover installed
