Hi Mark:
I'm not using the stock struts. I have had special ones made that are more robust. Also, I'm not using an actual E-Flite nose gear in the nose of this ship; it is a standard gear with no steering capability. I've researched these retracts quite a bit and am confident that they will perform well in this application. As a safeguard I might put "whisker skids" at all three gear points to protect the model in case of a malfunction. Of course these would only be used in practice; I'll remove them for appearance point judging and actual competition flights.
Thanks for your concern!
Later - Bob
knowing how hard you work on your finish,, Just thought I would pass it on,,
I agree, they are pretty well made units,, and of course,, it makes sense not to use a steering retract,,
Aside from the minor issue with the servo wire fatigue,, ( not the strut wire) I think they are pretty darn reliable from what I have seen,, I too have a set in the drawer,, waiting,,,,,,