My 26 is a Bill Tripp model and is a 1971. I have not experienced "soft spots" in any of the boats I have purchased, but understand that an expert fiberglass person should be consulted. My boat was bought in 1991 in Baltimore and sailed down and taken to Texas. I love the way she handles even in heavy weather and will be sailing across the Gulf within 2 years. Hopefully you have a Tripp model and will take care of those soft spots. Linda