Hi Tim
No it is really easy! Stan describes it as 'easiier than frying an egg'. With a little care, a small flat ended screwdriver and the instructions on Stan's website http://www.homehifi.co.uk/others/gatoraid.html
I have managed to modify both my Caimans. The op amp for the Gator board is taken out of the existing Caiman board it replaces (there are two on the existing board- but only one is needed for the new Gator board).
Certainly improves the bass and front to back image
Hope this helps
Regards
Garry
"I'm of an age where my back goes out more than I do" - Phyllis Diller
Garry.