I have a 17x38 boat similar to the boats godevil makes in design. I want to know how fast a 23hp GDSD would push the boat with 2 people and a dog. I need a 23 that's can get me up to at least 20 or will I need a bigger motor?

I have a 1636 skiff with a MB23SD that runs barely 20 with that load.
I bet that 17' does just as well or better

I don't usually load the boat down really heavy just decoys guns the dog and a friend, its a long run to the lease and my 16hp longtail only goes around 12 or 13 with a hunting load. I need a bigger motor just don't have much money to buy a new motor bigger than a 23. Might try to find something used

I got 20.3 with two guys and a hunting load with my old light hull with a 23 GDSD. The only problem is the width of your boat. The hull I had was a 46 inch bottom.

Go big block!

What's the biggest you guys think I can get away with? Was concerned about anything bigger being too heavy or the boat, and thanks for the help guys

Maybe try to find a used 27 gdsd

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I ran a 27 Prodrive on a 16x36 and the sides had very little flare. I'm 175 and had the battery in the back. Stock motor ran 30 all day. As you as you aren't 400 lbs, your boat would float a big block. The 36hp was only 30 or so lbs heavier than my 27.

I think I'll try to find a used 27 or 35 in good shape thanks for the help

I might be the only person to say this but I really like the 27PD with EFI. That little motor has good power. I drive a 35HP GDSD now and it performs very well. The 27HP GDSD has the same lower unit as the 35HP. It gets much better bite than the 23. I have owned both and prefer the longer lower unit. The 27 is actually now classified as a 25 so you get the benefit of using it on game reserves.

I had a 27 on my 16x38 hd, stock it would do 24 with moderate load, modded it would run 30, went to a 35 and it was spectacular on low end, ran 26 stock, modded it runs mid 30`s. There is no replacement for displacement, however that kohler block is built way better than the briggs. I think u will be happy with either one. I loved that kohler, but when I crack the throttle now I seem to forget it ever existed....... Good luck with which ever you choose.

Double post.....

Or look at the 23 Copperhead. Phowler gets great speeds on their smaller boats with these and the weight is about 80lbs less than the GoDevil or similar small blocks.

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