I am in the process of building my own longtail. I have owned 2 different longtails (GD and a MB, 9hp and 13 hp)prior to this one and sold them both. Both times I was convinced the area I was planning on hunting I wouldn't need one. Now I am back to square one hunting wild rice and cussing at my outboard. I never looked too hard at their construction. I am a decent welder and fabricator, but am having difficulty designing a water tight seal system. Any thoughts, plans, etc...? I can tell you I plan on using a 3/4" shaft with a 1" housing unless someone chimes in w/ a better suggestion.

New to the forum, never was aware it existed. Awesome website and sounds like most have a great wealth of knowledge. Comments/suggestions appreciated.

they make a seal thats for 1in housing and 3/4 bore, i used them on mine put three on each end so wont have to worry bout water getting in, just make sure you get 1 inch seamless tubing

That was kind of my line of thought as well. How many bearings did you put in then? I am planning on using a 72" shaft.

3 bushings, middle is strictly for shaft whip. a bearing at the top is good also