Connect and disconnect is not a big deal. My robarts have quick disconnects in the line and takes two seconds to take care of. I have never had any success with mechanical retracts. I just can't seem to find that "Sweet Spot" where the gear actually locks both up and down. I have heard nothing but good about Lado electric retracts. Only problem there is supply. Small company and they do small batches at a time. If you go to their website and do not find "OUT OF STOCK" on the set you want, order them right away because in a day or so, they will be sol out. I speak from experience here. Mechanicals on my VQ FW 190 kept collapsing on me when I landed. Finally put the fixed gear on. Went to Lado, saw them in stock....thought twice about the cost....mulled it over for a couple of days.....decided, "I NEED THOSE LADO'S"....went back to their website to order....."OUT OF STOCK"........