Broke out a piece about 3 inches long by 1 inch right out of the mid part of the starbord side of cavitation plate. Took the hydro foils off as was going to a real stumpy place. The part that broke out was between hydro foil mounting bolts.Took boat to welding shop for estimate. Priced ok but, welder wants to weld it with the gear assembly inside. Your Thoughts on wether the case would get to hot and melt the seals. 1967/65hp merc