Well, I'll scratch about 80% of what I have......thanks mooman!!Be very careful with the knife. An X-Acto is great but don't cut away the wood, and it's easy to do. another thought, and like moo, I assume it's hide glue, vinegar will also help loosen the stuff and will not cause a problem. It's especially useful when pieces are apart and you're trying to remove the old glue with as little wood as possible.
I'm still for the mold and mooman described that quite well. I think I'd go with some kind of interior brace/reinforcement and cloth would be my suggestion. Perhaps not as heavy as canvas, but a cotton cut in thin strips.
I got confidence Kevin....You can do it! I often lack patience and that is the only thing that you need in long supply on a job like yours. You can do it. When you put the back on again....or are ready to, let me and moo know huh? If it's a bit off or short, I think we both have some ideas that will help.
Spaw