Common hull stress point? 1996 Br180

ICEmaster

Hello all! I currently own  a 1996 br180. Just repaired a large crack(to the point of taking in water)in the hull along the keel at about the point where the beam is the widest. I purchased the boat with damage to the gel coat at this spot. I do not recall striking anything to expand the damage. My question is this: is this a stress a common stress point? 
Also, how do I find my gear ratio? 
Thanks in advance