Frank, you have a WE 1648 I have a 1648 Grizzly, similar hulls though yours is better quality. I picked up my LT from repairs and the dealer has the 37 EFI BackH2O in stock and he definitely said the Swomp will be ok on my hull but he recommended pods.
I have heard the arguments, most recommend them for anything less than a 16' hull. I like the idea of counteracting the weight of the motor plus a step plus flotation plus reducing backwash. Would the pods help or hinder this combo? If I get pods, what size? Should I bolt them on or weld them on? I can't afford a new hull+ motor but the pods add on would be only a few hundred dollar "mod". I am a year away from this new motor move.

When I got my 35, I was worried about the weight factor since I have a 16" transom and I'm 270. I can honestly say I have zero concerns or issues with the 35 on my short transom. The only time water comes over the transom is when I'm running wide open and I have to come to an abrupt stop. Even then the water than comes over is minimal. I do have my gas tank toward the front of my boat, but I'd be fine if it was in the back. I'd try the motor out without pods. I think you'll be happy. If not, you can always have them added on. My biggest concern with pods was always not wanting to take the chance of having them welded on wrong. We all know how finicky these boats and motors can be. If some guy welds pods on my boat and he's off by a few degrees, or it's not just perfect, and now my boat is a headache.

Thank you, that was exactly my worry about the pods. In fact two hunters and gear is the norm but I many times hunt by myself...I have also moved away from using waders so getting in/out of the boat is not a big deal. I have already located the battery up front to help even out the boat load. I was up around 250# a few years ago but slimmed down to the 220#'s so that helps. I have driven nothing but short transom jon boats over the years so I am always careful about sudden stops and turning. I just got back my 27 LT, needed one new bearing, seals, and new yoke set screws and it should get me through the next two seasons, this was after 10 flawless years of operation. You can't beat these motors for reliability and the BW is the ticket. I imagine like my previous motors, settling on a particular prop size will be trial/error. Are you running the 9x8? All the best!

Glades, my boat if a few feet longer but the width is the same. Swomp 35 weighs 225 lbs. My boat doesn't squat at all. I have my gas tank up front but could easily move it to the back with no weight and balance issues. Glad you got your motor up and running.


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Thanks, Stu! I have not given up the idea of getting an 18' hull except the motor will come first and I'll be ok with the present 1648...just happy to have the boat/motor back, went up to see Lamarr in Melbourne and I can fish the Glades and sightsee the marsh if I want to. I hope I can still go for a demo ride on your rig? God willing, I will be turkey hunting next week!

Good hunting Glades. Let us know how you do. Works been busy so I haven't been out much lately. My son has been out frogging in it just about every weekend since duck season so at least it's being used. I'll send you a PM next time I go to HP.


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I am running the stock 9x8 wheel from Backwater.

Me 2. Frank, You ever run any other prop on your 35?


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Thank you, Stu! I believe we still have plenty of water.

I think I am losing a couple mph at wot due to my pods. Too much turbulent water making the prop losing its scew