Radiator support panel question

[One_fast67]

The lower section of my radiator support panel has some rot in it where it meets the frame rail on the passenger side. Instead of replacing the entire panel, I was planning on just cutting the lower 3" of the panel out and replacing it. My question has to do with the two large oval cut out-outs that are in the original panel. Is there any purpose for those cut-outs? When replacing the lower portion, I would rather not add the cut-outs back in if I don't need to.

 

[70_Fastback]

I believe one set of ovals is for the AC lines to the cooler.

 

[Larry G]

Some of the wiring may run through those holes also.

 

[buckeyedemon]

i wonder if the reason for those cutouts was so the factory could use the spot welder to weld in the strut rod supports.

although not really seen, it's not too hard to cut out some ovals with a big hole saw, body saw and hand file.

 

[Midlife]

Buckeye may have the answer, but otherwise, they are not used except possibly to help fish the headlight harness through that area.