[GradySailfish]

It looks like it was a factory two piece cover. I think originally they came with an optional larger fuel tank, but if you got the smaller tank then the foward part of the compartment would be turned into a storage area...but I'm not 100% sure on this.

The factor did not put extra supports into the deck, I think it was 5/8 balsa core. If you have the time, build a new deck plate....I really like what strick did with modling his tank coffin cover.