Curious Model A? box...

I bought an old utility trailer today that someone had long ago made from what the seller had been told was a Model A Ford. My plan is to use the box for my Model A project and then make some kind of new base to use on the trailer. I'm not sure if it is a Model A or Model T box. It measures approximately 43" across and 57" in length. I thought that on the Model T box the front stake pockets were set back about a foot. These are back about 7".

The other weird thing is that there is a strange thing on the front panel. It's hard to describe so I've included pictures. It looks like it could be original but I have never seen anything like this before and can't imagine what it was used for.

Any input on positively id'ing the box or ideas about the weird thing on the front?

Thanks, Jay

 

Looks like Model T with wrong fenders.

 

26-27 Model T box. The strange part on the front is access to the model t battery

 

Thanks, guys- just what I needed to know!