David and Greg,

This is exactly the kind of response I was looking for.  Personally, I'd like to build this airplane as the sum total of the advice I get from you more experienced guys.  This is a special airplane, not many around and I want to do it right.

David, as a matter of fact I have read that article and really enjoyed it, and I ordered plans from Eureka.  If you would, send me a PM on those cores since it may not be a bad idea to have a new set.  The wing saddle is definitely low wing so it's a Tipo not an Illusion.  Speaking of, what is your technique for making the front bottom fairing on the wing center.  The one that will butt against the front of the wing saddle.  I'm currently building a DB 60 (one that sat in my uncle's basement since '78), and I am not all that thrilled on how that fairing turned out.

As for the exhaust.  I do like the idea of doing it Magic style.  That is so clean and nice looking, but I am not sure if I can manage to keep that simple.  I saw some pics of a Tipo with a rear exhause going straight down the fuse side, and the pipe appeared to be set in a groove that was cut into the fuse.  Has anyone out there ever done this to their plane??  I am ok with fiberglass, I made a custom cowl and canopy for my DB.  I would appreciate tips on technique for this mod.  I liked that look, and I like the idea of the pipe staying at tight to the fuse as I can get. 

Any opinions on Tricycle vs Taildragger??  Gonna go retracts either way.