Larry,
Here are a few observations from my experience with my Oriental ARF.
1.) It builds nose heavy even with a light engine. Mount the engine as far aft as possible and then trim the back of the fiberglass cowl to fit. I think there is a note to this effect on the Brodak website.
2.) With the 1/1 flap to elevator ratio, mine would not turn very well. Set it up for the old 3/2 ratio and it turns much better.
3.) In switching from the kit to the ARF, Brodak changed the LG from wire to aluminum and in the process moved the wheels forward a bit. If I were going to build another, I would get the wire gear from Brodak and mount it on the aft firewall with "J" bolts.
4.) The covering around the nose comes off easily. As a minimum, when you fuel proof the tank compartment and bottom hatch area, let the epoxy lap over the covering a little. Again, if I were going to assemble another, I would strip off the fuselage covering and paint the fuselage black.
5.) Unlike some ARFs, this one has lots of tank space and good access, so might as well go with the 4.5 oz tank.
6.) I assume you will replace the hinges, pushrods, and clevises.
Steve