Oh yea I was starting to lose it! I cut about another 1/2 inch deeper and still was solid! What did it was changing my lifting points like we talked about!!
I pulled the cap off my 274 Stratos (1992). Spring of last year. I would suggest bracing the cap and hull. Had a scare when it was time to place the cap back on. lets just say large ratchet straps where my friend. also for your rub rail make it warm some how when you go to place it back on. (soak in really warm water right before).