Regarding the retracts, I have a set of articulating gear for the F8F Bearcat which were DOA. Many calls and no satisfaction. It has been a couple of years since that bad experience but I'm not in any hurry to repeat it. However, there are not any other options for the F9F that I'm aware of and I haven't had any experiences with CJM kits. I am trying to find out if the kit products are worth serious consideration.
TX