So, I just bought a 1542 Sparks and was looking at a surface drive. But I do a lot of hunting in flooded timber and some marsh. So now I'm looking at longtails. I know they are now speed demons but I want at least 20mph maybe better. Any suggestions on motors would be great. Thanks.

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a 20 hp LT on that should bump (barely) 20mph.

23 would be the best bet to go. Easiest motor to mod up as well.

As far as what name?

take your pick!

BackwaterInc
GoDevil
MudBuddy
Beavertail


if i were buying new - I'd go with the BackwaterInc. Some of the nicest LT's out there IMO.

I was looking at the Backwater INC. I really like there motors. Do you think the 27 would be too heavy? And its a 1542 Alweld not sparks,lol.

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I run the back water 27 hp on my 1542 war eagle, I'm getting 21 mph with me, gear and dog, I'm getting 17 mph with 2 guys gear and dog. Arlon and his crew have always been very helpful. Their 27 is one of the lighter LT's available, I did have to move my tank and batteries to the front of the boat to balance some of the weight which I didn't have to do with my 23hp Mud Buddy LT. But I also couldn't break 14mph with my Mud Buddy LT. I'm actually selling the 27 now, switching boats and going to a surface drive. But if I ever went back to an LT it would be another Back Water; especially if they come out with a model that has a clutch!

I love my Back h2o motor I have there 35 and it is sweet. Arlon is vary good to deal with grate customer serves.

I have a 27hp ********* INC on a 16x42 riveted boat with a beat up bottom gets 21 MPH solo, 18 with 2 people and gear 17 with another 100 pound person, blind, bags, and guns