I'm looking at buying a 22 hp 670 cc motor for my 14' flatbottom to build my longtail with. The motors weighs 106 lbs, so my question is will it float and ride correctly with that amount of weight plus the extra weight of the tail out back?

I didn't want to go to the lighter 13hp 73lb motor, but I wanted some input from you guys who know first before I go a mess it all up!

As far as shafts, props and joints go is it better to just buy the kit and go or fab it all up? I have no issue doing the welding, bending and cutting, but if it's just a couple hundred more to buy a kit I would rather save the time and bolt it on.

Opinions?????