Interesting info TandemGeek and it is a good example of an iterative design process where priorities may be adjusted a bit as one learns more about the implications.
The matter of an expansive stoker compartment is more important to some than others and then there is the question of how much is enough. I know that you prefer a longer stoker compartment but in this case you were willing to accept a shorter one (still generous I suspect) "for a number of reasons". Although I have some suspicions, would you mind sharing what those reasons were?