Update,

I had been told by Great Planes product service last summer when I called them about the landing gear, that I would have new "re-designed" gear this spring. I was told that by a product manager after being told several times by support people that there was no issue. I demanded to talk to somone who could make a decision and was passed along to the manager at that point. He admitted there was a problem and I would have new gear by spring 08. A thread on RC Universe got removed last summer (07) when a dozen people all compared notes about the landing gear issue. I copied the thread and sent it to Great Planes and was told once again they had never heard of this issue. I called the fellow up who admitted the problem and he confimred again that the problem existed and they were working on it. At this time I still have no fix for the gear issue. Great Planes service isnt so Great

Update,

A Great Planes service rep named Mary Anne called me at the office and told me the reason Great Planes has not sent out any updated gear yet is a product manager who was supposidly taking care of the problem, dropped the ball. They started design on new gear a few weeks ago. She tells me I should have gear this summer but no idea on a time line. I have recovered the airplane in real covering and I suppose I will go purchase new gear. Very disappointed. Will never purchase another Great Planes ARF if this is the way their company does business. The girl was polite and good to deal with but that doesnt solve my gear issue.

Update:

I am told that new gear is on the way and has been tested. As far as the monokote issue. It is what it is. The covering that was used was not monokote, it was some type of aftermarket covering that doesnt hold up. I have recovered the airplane and will chalk it up to experience............