I am planning on scratch building an 80" Cap based on the Midwest kit plans. Outlines will be the same, but everything will be lighter (based on discussion with Dick Hanson). I would also like to lower the horizontal stab some to reduce the pitch and roll coupling with rudder. My questions are:

1) How much to lower the stab? I am thinking maybe 1-1.5". Any more than that and it will start to look goofy and decidedly non-scale. Can much of the pitch couple be trimmed out with CofG changes as well? I don't need perfection, but less is always better and easier to mix out with no weird side effects.

2) The roll couple should be manageable with a change in dihedral (I think). Any guesses on how much to take out?

3) I would like some recommendations for aftermarket landing gear (carbon fiber preferred) and a fiberglass cowl to keep the weight down and quality up. I plan to use a two piece wing with carbon joiner tube, so I might as well continue the carbon theme.

I will be using sheeted foam core wings and stab and a built up balsa fuse. My target is less than 12lb with a ST2300 or OS160 for power. Any other tips/things to note about this aircraft or the Midwest plans?


Thanks,
Mark