I have a 1650 Alumacraft waterfowler edition welded boat. I am interested in purchasing a surface drive motor for it and was wondering how a 23 mini might do on it. I know it want be a speed demon but will it be a waste of my time and money. Also what are some simple somewhat inexpensive upgrades i could do to it. Thanks

I have a 17'48" boat weight 450 with 23 hp gator tail. In deep water runs 23mph on gps everything stock. Called Hoyt at gator tail checked on a stage 1 upgrade, cost 1,200 to 1,400 $ few more MPH (27 or 28)

Not to side stack but Keith u the first I've heard of runnin a 1748 what kinda of details can u tell me about that boat? Lookin at that phowler extreme 1748 on the boats for sale how do u think that would run with a 23 on the back of it?

To put things in perspective my first "mud" boat was a 1650 express and a 35 mudbuddy and it ran about 25 empty and could barely plane with 3 ppl. It was a mod-v. One way or another, those ribbed bottom mod-v's are not made for a mudmotor. If it were me I would sell the alumacraft and look for a used hull, or have one custom built, and match it to the 23. I was in the same position as you where speed was not a big issue, but i did need to get a heavy load up on step and shallow and the xpress did not do this. So i would sell it and even if it is a cheaper used hull, start off right and you will be pleased. Those 23 minis are a badass little motor. Just need to match it to a hull.

As the guy above me sad get a mud motor hull for sure , I made the mistake of not getting one from my 27mini , not that it's a bad thing but my motor will proly work much better with the right boat , I'm gonna get a 1644 gatortrax for next year , but for the record there was a guy on here that went by filter he has that same set right to a tee, he add some mods to he 23 and I beleive he run 25 26 with to people and without a load one person 28 to 30 not sure how true but thats what he said.Do it right the first time. Good luck

My boat was built by Mike Kliebert. It is a flat bottom with square chines,about 7' on the back has the gd break in chine. 19" side's

One other thing, this is my first surface drive. But I did run this motor ( 23hp) on a 18'46" with round chines did not run as well. Did some asking round and was told for a surface drive motor to stay away from round chine boats.

I appreciate the replies. I will probably go ahead and buy the 23 mini and slowly do some mods and then during the off season next year buy a hull to match it. What hull do you think would be the best fit for a mildly modified 23 mini. Thanks

Depends on what you want to due, gator tail said the 1840 is the best for there 23hp

I would get a 17x42.