Thanks for the excellent info, old rigger. The area with the dip, forward of the dash, is actually in the area of the rubrail. The 4 inches or so that is raised around the perimeter. I will get some pics posted to compare the 2 sides, and you will see what I am referring to.
The boat has a 2 piece bulkhead forward of the dash. There is an opening, I assume, to put stuff up under the bow, as well as allow access. It is about 16 inches wide.
The deck still has a nice arch to it.
The work will be done over the winter, as soon as I get myself situated. The old house didn't have a big enough garage to put my tools in, let alone a boat. The new house will work, but I need to get the lights, heat, and air all hooked up.
I built a dolly to set the boat on while I work on it.