spray rail question on a 23 cc

[gchop]

I own a 1976 23 CC that has mahogany spray rails. The guy that I bought it from a few years ago bought it from someone in FLA. I think the boat has a leak in the rear section and I want to remove them. the question is will I see a big difference in the boats handling and ride without them. they are 4 inches wide and run from the bow to about 12 inches away from the stern. Any thoughts ?