the 2x4 is not necessary, is not factory
plenty of work posts here on this repair. I had the same thing. it is probably heavy because of water soaked up,
but it ill still be heavy after repair.
check my album.
http://wellcraftv20.com/community/album.php?albumid=161 it isn't the best, there many better"how to"posts.
I haven't found a problem yet with my v that couldn't be helped/resolved by a post made here by some good samaritan willing to share their knowledge and time. look at several before starting your project.