So I got a new boat this weekend, it's a 1644 Alweld custom, with a 23 vanguard GDLT.
I took it out for the first ride tonight, after getting everything hooked up, and noticed that I got 19 to 20 mph with me and another guy, both of us are right at 150 lbs.
When I took the boat by myself, I only got 16-17 mph.
6 gallon gas tank in the back had only about 3 gallons in it, and a lawnmower battery up front.
Can't figure out what is going on, must be not enough weight in the front?
I've had another boat for years now, a 16hp Vanguard GDLT crawfish version, on a 1436 polarcraft and when I had weight up front on it, it would always go slower.
I don't understand, PLEASE HELP!

Definitely need some weight up front. Mine runs best with someone sitting on the front deck.

So I put the 6 gallon gas tank up front, and but a new deep cycle battery in the back. I haven't had a chance to take it out yet, but it seems like it should work better this way.
I kinda hate to put both the battery and gas tank up front for safety reasons.
So because this boat rides more evenly through the water, should it perform better in the mud?
I'm really enjoying the bigger boat, but am just afraid I won't be able to go where I used to.

Yup fuel tank up front and battery in the middle should make it plane out better with one guy.

I put my battery and gas tank to the front of my boat it did the trick. If your concerned about safety issues get a battery box with a lid and keep the lid strapped down. I have never had a problem with my set up.