Crazy pop up compartment between the hood and the windshield

So last time I went wheeling I got into a hairy situation and ended up tipping over my jeep. Now I am assessing the damage and trying to figure out what to do about it. As you can see in the picture I caught a rock in that small area that is in between the hood and the windshield. There is a little vent looking thing, spot welded into place. that I crushed in. As I began to think about the best way to hammer this panel back into shape, I started wondering what it was for. I looked all over the forum and not only did I not find the answer, I saw that not many Jeeps even have this compartment.

Could someone please help satisfy my curiosity?

[/IMG]

 

It's a vestige from the M38A1. The M38A1 had 2 12V batteries under a hatch there.

Only the earliest CJ-5 bodies have the cover. It was eventually eliminated.

You have other M38A1 vestiges too - there's a place for a fording snorkel in the side of the hood, and there's a bow pocket in the side of the body for the folding military top. There may be more that I'm not aware of.

 

Dude, if you were closer I'd offer up a cowl repair section off my '56 tub..................Oh, and what Tim said is all true!

 

Tim, Thanks for the info, that helps.

Dude, Thanks, it's the thought that counts.

 

Wow! That's a nasty place for a dent! At least the rock smashed the cowl and not a passenger.

 

I considered that as a possible spot to add lockable storage.
Pound it out, add a box, a hinge and a hasp.

 

Looks like the rock was an "innocent bystander".
Just sitting there minding it's own business.

 

I have an unbent cover. if you want it pm me.