RE: When do you install the motor?
You can start a kit right away, and next I would get the engine as sometimes you need that when setting up the firewall. The radio gear can be installed last either just before or after covering the plane. Installing the radio gear prior to covering allows you to get a rough idea of balance and make adjustments before sealing off parts of the plane with the covering. However, after the plane is finished, you will need to balance again as the covering does add some weight.