I second the 'leave the rim in place' idea. I removed mine, along with the whole tray, but then I had to build up that rim area so the lid would lie ~level with the surrounding deck, instead of ~3/16 too low. Building it back up was a hassle.Doug,
Don't try to remove the rim after cutting out the pan. I simply left it in place. It's doing no harm, and interfering with nothing. Sand the cut edges & let it alone. Good news, yes?
Dan Morehouse