RE: LT40 Clipped Wing?
Lots of people have clipped the wings on the LT-40. If you search for "LT40 clipped wing" (no dash) or "LT-40 clipped wing" you will find lots of postings about it. The general opinion is that since the LT-40 has a VERY light wing loading and tends to float as a result, you can shorten the wing without much problem.
The clipped wing will mean it lands a bit faster of course, and will be less suitable as a basic trainer...