Don, thanks for reiterating your thoughts on how splice in the nose extension. I've seen you mention it before over on RCGroups and think it should be an easy change.
I've attached a picture of the inside ply fuselage sides. These are the pieces that need splicing. On the outside another basla doubler is added then cut and sanded to shape. There are two of these per side that when put together, run the entire length of the fuselage. So the outside front will also have a solid piece over it for strength. A little fiberglass tape and epoxy on the inside seams and it should be plenty strong. Triangle stock could be added to the bottom sides in the splice area if needed as well.
With this is mind, I did order the following parts tonight from HeadsUpRc.
260 Watt Motor
http://www.headsuprc.com/servlet/the...h-11%29/Detail
Some 9gm servos spec'd with high torque
http://www.headsuprc.com/servlet/the...92R-Sub/Detail
Some 5 gm servos
http://www.headsuprc.com/servlet/the...g-iS500/Detail
I've never tried either of these servos before, so a little validation of their operation will be needed. (Not quite sure how to do this, but I'll try)
My plan is to start on the fuselage right after I get the motor and make sure it will easily attach to the firewall. Hopefully next week sometime.
Steve