Well, I don't know much about 1/2 A model design, but how about 1/16th ribs and cap strips?
The design isn't going to qualify as a classic, so why not do it as light as you can? Matching cap strips to leading edge and trailing edges is easier anyway.
Anybody who tackles this plane with the curved fuselage sides shouldn't have a qualm at cap strip ribs. I assume you are keeping those lovely curved fuselage sides?
I have flown two, count them, two, Tercels, and it is as good as it gets! I look forward to the kit being issued, and if I weren't up to my ears in other stuff, would jump right on one! I have been twigging Kieth about doing it for years!
Best of luck, Keith and Eric!