First I want to say this is a great site, lots of good info! Just got a few questions though. First is Gator-Tail and Pro-Drive the only motors with reverse? Also since all the local wild life refuges have a 25hp max on motors and 9" and less prop, I am very limited. To get the max speed and performance out of a motor under 25hp do I need a longer and wider boat? But then I guess I am pretty much stuck to a 16' with a 25hp? So would a wider boat be better?

Thanks,
Robert

With the HP restriction, I would probably go 1648 with a PD 27. I doubt they could tell the difference. PD and GT are the only ones with Reverse.

Anything bigger (heavier) with a 25 or 27 and my guess is that it wouldn't run real good. You will also be a little limited on your load carrying ability with the smaller motor.

Yes Gator Tail and Pro-Drive are the only mudmotors with reverse. I would go something along the lines of a 16 x 48 or 18 x 48 if I were you.

i ran a 25 PD on a 16x48 for 2 years then put it on a 17x48 and that one foot made a HUGE difference in my speed and load carryin capability.

If you are limited to a 9" prop, I believe you are out of luck with GT or PD. The PD is a 12 ¼” and the GT 23 is an 11” prop. If want reverse with that size prop, recommend contacting either one for a custom build. Both GT and PD are great on helping you out.

with the 16x48 i ran around 23-24 mph without a load. 2 people and hunting load slowed to a little above 20, 3 people and hunting load ran around 18 and with the few times i put 4 people in there and a hunting load i was lucky to get it on plane. with 17x48 my speeds were pretty much the same but with 3 or 4 people it ran around 20 and didnt wanna bog down.