tanks & servos
I have already modified the wings during construction to handle servos out in the wingtips for the ailerons. Right now, I've got the push tubes installed as per the instructions for the throttles. But I too am getting the feeling of dumping this idea and going to individual mini servos for each engine.
I've got a Futuba 9C that I'll use for this baby. But I like some of these new hitec servos that are coming out. Especially, their wing servos. Bobman, I'm going to think long and hard about cutting off the engine rails on the nacelles and replace them with regular engine mounts like you suggested. If memory serves, those wood rails also serve as the cowling mounts.
As for the fuel tanks. I'm thinking after reading some of your posts here tonight, of putting the inboard engine fuel tanks (8 oz) into the wing/bombbay area and smaller fuel tanks in their proper location for the outboard engines (4 or 6 oz.).
Landing gear question will remain (pardon the expression) up in the air for now.