James, I have been out of the building business for 3 weeks after unsuccessfully trying to amputate my thumb while working on my plane.  Now that my Thumb is getting better, I am able to get back on the project.  I have modified the plans to put main and auxilliary fuel tanks in the leading edge of the wing. I did not like the idea of the header tank.  I want to keep fuel out of the passenger compartment as much as possible to reduce risk.  I also wanted to have a 1000 mile range.  The 48 gallons of fuel that I am provisioning for should get me to the 1000 mile range.  I am finishing up my wings, except for the fuel tanks.  I still have to get them welded.  I have cut out 3 of the 4 tanks so far and will have to get them welded in the next couple of months.

I am doing the tail-dragger mod to reduce drag, the forward opening canopy (like you).  I thought about the dual sticks, but decided to stay with the "Y" control stick.  I plan to put in wall mounted throttle quadrants.  I reduced my main wheels to 5X500 to reduce drag as well.  I also reduced the tail wheel from 10" to 6" diameter.  I have also been considering the BRS.  I may mount it behind the cockpit.  Haven't decided yet.  I am building a William Wynn Corvair conversion as the powerplant as well.  I am looking at the Dynon glass instruments as what I would like to put in, including the autopilot option.  Still thinking that over.....