Hi, I've got a riveted 1744 Duracraft from some time in the 90's. It was an old stick steer that some one converted to a tiller at some point and now I'm thinking about putting a long tail on. My question is how big of a motor do you think I could get away with? (I'm currently running a 25hp outboard) Ideally I would like to run a 37 but I think that might be pushing it, let me know your thoughts, I appreciate the advice

A 17' boat will handle a big block all day every day.

It will work. I suggest "beefing" up the transom area...a U piece of 1/4" alum over the transom where the motor mount/clamps will be should do it. A friend ran a .072 gauge 1652 seanymph c. 1977 for years with a 25 HP LT with no problems...it was only when he put a shorty 35 that he cracked the transom. Should be a fast rig!

Is that a 20" transom? If so, it will be hard to find a used LT for it.

Worth cutting it down to 16" or you will be struggling.

Yeah it is a tall transom, im not opposed to cutting it down to 16 I was more worried about making it weaker if I did. I'm also considering buying a LS model from backwater but it seems like it's hard to find any info on the LS. there was a guy awhile back Delta something that had one but he hated it and ended up selling and going to a GTR which makes me a little hesitant to go with the LS over the SS that has almost nothing but great reviews

Call BackH20!! They should be able to give you the best advice!