Hey Ron,
You and I are on the same page. Right after I put that post up I thought about that using the OBA system to dry the lens. Kinda like a mini brushless car wash, but for the cameras!
I like the idea about putting a camera on the front of the hood too. I'd take it one step farther though.
I'd put a motorized, 360 degree panning system in place. (Joystick controlled from in-cab of course, maybe voice actuated too!).
I don't anticipate ever going full remote control with my Jeep, but I figured if I do misplace my spotter I can use this camera to enable me to find him or her more easily from the drivers seat!!
Frank