Hi eoj. My 2003 had the swim platform cut in order to accomodate the trim tab cylinder. I think it depends on the size of the tabs you're running. My 2003 had Lenco 12x12's, which were overkill I think for the boat. My new 2006 Chaos has Lenco 9x12's I believe and it was not necessary to cut the swim platform on it as is seen in this photo at Merritt Marine:
