Whether by accident or design, it may be beneficial for the landing gear plate to be the weak link. If it breaks out, it's a fairly easy fix. If you were to strengthen it, a hard landing could transfer the loads deeper into the planes structure, possibly damaging areas that are harder to repair. Think of it as a crumple zone. If flying from grass, larger wheels should help.

Here's a photo with the engine, spinner and prop on. I should be able to get some more time in the shop today.

Scott