RCer,

Thanks again for the fast response.
Your gear drawing has helped quite a bit. I wasn't sure on the rib spacing because of the rod that extends 24MM when the gear is up. It must retract completely when down. Seeing as the gear is 84MM it must just drop in at 87MM spacing.
I have read all of the threads, and have most memorized. Extending the sheeting was one of the changes I planned on doing. I had some 1/16" balsa sheet in my stock pile and used them to make the wider center sheeting to allow for ease of covering. This would also allow me to move the rib if necessary for retract installation.
I started a post in the pattern forum on the preferred method of securing the gear to the wooden gear mounts. I figured these guys would be the best to ask as they all use retracts. From the responses I got screws are not used to mount gear. Surprisingly 4-40 nylon bolts with T-nuts were the attachment method of choice. I may go with the nylon bolts.
Congratulations on becoming a new dad soon. Sounds like you are going to have your hands full literally.

Thanks again,
Greg