I have not built this kit, however I think I can awnser the retract question. Typically speaking building the wing now with the wires would lead to a major redo later to install the retracts. The wires are on one solid block and the wing rib doublers are different. For retracts, they are mounted on rails and use different wing rib doublers. The conversion after the fact can be done, but it is a lot of work. If you are saving your money to buy some retracts in the future, build the wing with the retract setup and install some pull strings for the tubing and you will be good to go when the money gets right. There are some threads going on the T-34, just do a forum search in the scale and warbird forum. Thanks Dave