Both Shawn and I are redoing CV16V8's. the layup on the bow is really thin, and the foam logs do flex and make noise (our GT150 did as well).
I also go over the bow a lot.
we are both removing foam logs and replacing with core material.
Shawn has his split, I believe he is using end grain balsa (same as he did on his CV23) i think all ya have to do with that is wet out CSM and lay the balsa on, then more CSM on top of the balsa.
the balsa is in small squares with a scrim attached so it will easily contour to the shape of the bow.
On the one I am doing (not splitting the hull) I will use 3/4" plasti core and will set it by screwing fixture boards together through the plasti core and the bow.
I will be redoing the gel/flake so the holes will be easily fixed.
We will be adding supports as well, the location will be determined by the final location of the fuel tank.