Thanks for the replies. It sounds like removing the cloth is possible. It will be a big improvement - I put waaaayyy too much resin on when I built it. I know that now from other boats I have built since.

The gunwales will be a problem. If I remember correctly - I epoxied the outer gunwales on and also screwed them from the inside. The inner gunwale (Epoxied in place) covers the screws (overbuilt, I know). A sabre saw with a metal cutting blade may do it.

Good reminder about maintaining the sheer line dimensions. If I go ahead with this it will be a winter project so I have time to think about it.