I have a 1448 jon and I want to put a short tail on it. I realize that hull is not ment for a ST but I have to use what I got at this time. I am planning on upgrading my hull to a Gator Trax 1645 v-rake with the hunt deck, with in the next couple years, and I am wanting to know what size motor I can do that will work for both hulls. I am not sold on a particular manufature at this point just curious about HP. I want to get a motor this year and a new hull when money allows. I do not need a speed demon but I do want to get on plane with a full load.

Any input is appreciated. I am very green with the mud motor stuff

Thanks
Murf

Put 23 mini or gtr. Or 18 copperhead

Ive heard about these copperheads. The 18 will be powerfull enough for a 1645? I was told they are a damn good unit.

The 1448 may or may not float it, but you are gunna want at least a 35.

Go with a 35!

CMURPHY,

Here is the deal with the Coperhead 18hp. I just bought one last week. I run it on a custom 16X38 weighing approx 420lbs. It pushes my boat about 24mph with one guy and 22mph with two guys an ice chest, and fishing gear. I love it. But my point is, get all the specs on the gator trax haul before buying one. I personaly would not put the 18hp on a boat that weights more than mine. I feel my rigs is on the upper end of weight for the 18hp. Now putting a Copperhead on your 14X48 would be a killer combo.

Later

Thanks spearfish
I do beleive I found a different boat. I am going to a 15x40 (340#)or a 16x40 (350#+)Phowler basic light model. Not sure which one I am going to commit to yet.

my cousin has a 27 pd on a 1448... it does good just cant handle much weight

I agree with cutt down for 10lbs. go with the extra foot. Like i stated I had a custom 16ft built two months ago and already i with i would have gotten an 18ft haul.

I am currently doing the same thing. I put a 27 hp mud buddy on a 1448 and it will run 23 with myself in it and about 19 with another guy and some gear. With 3 guys you dont want to know. My boat take a while to get on plane but once it gets up it runs good. I had to weld some angle alum. to the tramson to help with the porpoising issue and it helps ride alittle more level. I think a 27 hp on a 14 boat is about as big as you want to get because my boat already runs @$$ heavy. I plan on upgrading to a longer gator trax within the next year. But it were to do it all again. I would have sold my boat, saved more money and got a 35hp with a 16ft (with a huntdeck) to an 18ft boat made for the motor. Just my 2 cents

You could just get me to build you a boat to fit your needs? Just sayin.