afrodite,

I used the ESM landing gear for the Russian LA-7. If I remember right the gear is just under 9" long. I had to modify the gear supports in the wing to make them fit. The ESM gear seems to be of good quality and I hope to do the maiden flight this weekend. I think the gear for the F8F will work just fine. Remember to use some extra hardwood in the gear support area to strengthen up the landing gear mounts. I used some hard Oak in mine and the gear seem to be real soild. My plane weigh's in just under 20 lbs. Keep us osted on your progress.