i'll add my two cents as I have done things the hard way.

First time I installed my tailwheel i did not use a pushrod for steering and i let the wheel pivot freely. I found out that it's not the best idea because i had limited control when taxing.

Second time I installed it I used a pushrod. Pushrod worked great but the hard wood support I added to the bottom for support was to small and it ripped out when taxing. So now I have to fix the damage i've done.