I got the MAN with the gear article today, there are some pictures that cleared a few things up. Karlsson also says brass is OK for the upper and lower suspension frames, which I like, and a solid aluminum center beam can be used. I will go this way and rivit the center beam pivot points, (ears), in place. I will search for the right size Bimba cylinder so I have a scale looking strut. His method of airfoiling the tubing is to squeeze it in a vice with a drill bit inside the tube to prevent crushing, I guess this is supposed to add strength? I still do not quite understand the counter balance and downlock yet, but I am getting there. Materials so far look like 3/16, 1/4, 5/16 tubing of your choice, some 3/32 sheet steel, springs for the oleo action on the strut.