Dave, DMCH did some experimentation in this area a few years ago. They cut out most of this section to attempt to make a bigger bonnet space-especially to fit the rear tires. It is a thin piece of fiberglass and really does not add any strength compared to the box design around the perimeter. I would certainly remove this section-it is something we have already contemplated on building an electric D. I would also look at removing the radiator and rerouting the AC hoses to give more room. Are you going to bring it to DCS 08? Bob Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/DMCForum/ <*> Your email settings: Individual Email | Traditional <*> To change settings online go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/DMCForum/join (Yahoo! ID required) <*> To change settings via email: mailto:DMCForum-digest@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx mailto:DMCForum-fullfeatured@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: DMCForum-unsubscribe@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/