Have a 1648 alweld w/a GTL35hp or a 1746 GT boat w/a GTL23hp?

It really all depends on where you plan to use it, how much weight you plan to haul, and how fast ya want to go. From your post, I'm guessin you're lookin @ a couple of used rigs that are about the same price. Correct me if I'm wrong. Anyhow, there's no doubt that the 16' with the 35 would haul a better load and go faster, but that Alweld wasn't intended to be abused the way it will be with a MM. Don't know if ya meant Gator Tail, or Gator Trax, but both are good boats and will outlast the Alweld. The 23 will do ok with 2-3 ppl and a light hunt load, but any more than that and it'll be a terd.

if it were me i would go for da horsepower bud.....the 1648 will do you alright for a little while and when its time for a new boat you already have da bigger motor. just my .02.

-jordyb.

Thanks for the info guys. I'm trying to determine my best move since I can't afford both a mud boat and a big motor. Didn't know whether to go with the mud boat and smaller motor or alweld and bigger motor. What do ya'll think about an alweld 1744 .100ga with a 35hp mb or GT? I have a good local alweld dealer that I'd like to deal with and as far as a 35hp goes, 1744 or 1648 alweld? Thanks again for the advice guys!!! Oh by the way will mostly be carrying 3 guys, 4 at times.

Sent ya a pm, but if ya dead set on Alweld, get the 17'

Alweld will build you a 17x48...that's what you need for that load...I'm running a .100 16x44 alweld powered by a MB BD 4500 CDI and with three guys and gear you got to have that extra hp to get it moving good...

Get the alweld with skins...sub floor and side walls are seal welded...comes with a commercial rating with flotation..good boats...best boat in that class IMO

Niether, would have a 1856 Phowler with 36 PD LS with hydro trim and auto reverse. But thats just cause I am in good with the owners and get a really great deal on Phowlers

But seriously, as said, it all depends on what you want to use it for. If you are getting bigger motor go with a bigger boat to really get what you want for performance out of it with load. If you are going smaller with the motor, then go long with the boat to overcome the lower hp issue.

PW