HI Guys,
I got the landing gear issue solved...I built a new former (baltic birch ply) just behind the main gear mounting point and made sure to epoxy it properly with 30 minute mix. Then I drove #4 by 1/2" screws through the gear mounting plate into the new former's gusset (also made of avery solid 1/2" x 1/2" block ofbirch ply). After a day of curing, it's solid as a rock.
Flew three great flights today and greased in some nice smooth landings, but everything held up great.
It's not a beginner's plane, and it's not a second plane either...so, maybe we should move this topic over to speed planes and sport flying...
thanks,
jw