LDM,
That sounds like a good idea. I used 3/8" dowels so I hope I can find the plastic tubes you talked about in that size

I have everything done except for the landing gear I ordered. They should be here Monday and I install them and balance the Zero. I hope with putting the 1lb weight on the plywood extension and the elevator and rudder servo's in the fuselage I will not have to add any more weight