Frequently Asked Questions
Water is drawn into the unit through the intake grill by an impeller, driven directly by the engine driveshaft. The water is then forced at high pressure through an outlet nozzle creating thrust that drives the boat forward. To obtain reverse, a gate lifts into position over the outlet re-directing the pressure stream in the opposite direction.
Jet systems have different maintenance needs than props—more frequent impeller inspections, attention to debris intake—but they're not necessarily more expensive overall. You save on propeller damage and lower unit repairs that come with hitting rocks.
If you're mechanically comfortable working on outboard motors, yes. The kits are designed for installation by someone with basic mechanical skills and the right tools. If you're not comfortable, we can handle installation.
Yes. Jet drive kits are bolt-on installations—you can switch between jet and prop systems with your lower unit. Most shallow-water operators run jets during low-water seasons and props during high water.
No. A 25 horsepower is the smallest jet they make.
We currently do not offer financing. You will have to contact your local bank or credit union.
Yes. All custom builds come with warranty coverage on hull, motor, and components. Specific terms depend on the build—we discuss warranties as part of the build proposal process.
Yes. We regularly have pre-owned boats available—trade-ins, customer upgrades, and well-maintained used rigs. These go fast, so check with us or stop by the shop to see current inventory.
We service what we sell, and we service most jet systems regardless of brand. If it's running on the Black River or Current River, we've probably worked on something like it.
Yes. We ship jet drive kits, parts, and accessories nationwide. If you're local to Ellington, Missouri, you can also pick up at our shop.
The jet outboard should be mounted about 6 inches higher than a propeller motor.
Typically, about 30 percent.
Jet drives typically lose 10-15% of top-end speed compared to propeller drives. The tradeoff is accessing water you couldn't reach at all with a prop. For shallow river runners, that's a worthwhile exchange.
On a short shaft motor, the transom is 15”-16” tall. On a long shaft motor, the transom is 20”-21” tall.
We specialize in Weldcraft boats but can work with most aluminum hulls designed for shallow water. Our focus is shallow-water performance—we'll recommend the platform that fits how you run.
You will need to know your year model, if it is a long or short shaft motor, and if it has remote or tiller steering.
A jet drive kit converts your outboard motor from a propeller drive to a jet pump system. This allows you to run in shallow water without damaging your motor. Kits include all mounting hardware, pump housing, and impeller—you'll reuse your existing water pump from your lower unit.
Evinrude E-TEC and G2 motors are popular choices for their power-to-weight ratio and reliability. We've built rigs with many brands—contact us with what you're considering and we'll give you an honest assessment.
Build times vary depending on our current schedule and the complexity of your build. Contact us directly with your requirements and we'll give you an accurate timeline. We don't take deposits until we have a confirmed delivery date.
We're located in the heart of River Country near Ellington, Missouri, between Black River and Current River. Our customers come from across the Ozarks and surrounding states.
FROM ELLINGTON, MO: Take Hwy 21 south for 2 miles. Turn left on Highway H. We are 9 miles down on the left. The road dead ends at Clearwater Lake. If you go too far, turn around and come back 1 mile from the lake.
FROM ST LOUIS, MO: Take I-55 South to Hwy 67. Take Hwy 67 South to Farmington, then Hwy 32 West to Hwy 21 South to Ellington. Then follow directions from Ellington above.
FROM CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO: Take Hwy 34 West to Hwy 21. Then South on Hwy 21 to Ellington. Then follow directions from Ellington above.
If you're running shallow rivers, backwaters, or rocky streams, jet drives let you access water that would destroy a propeller. You trade some top-end speed for the ability to run where others can't.
We offer jet drive kits for most outboard motors. The best way to find the right kit is to tell us your motor make, model, and horsepower. Use our Help Me Choose tool on our jet drive kits page and we'll show you compatible options.