A very excellent start to this build. I completed mine last year and agree about the problems you're addressing.
I'm not a scale machinist as you so my solutions are far more humble. I scratchbuilt much of the rear suspension to get a better look. I added details where visible. I did not solve the clamshell as you did so attached it shut. The oil hatch is open-able and detailed within.
If it's any help to you here's my WIP. Hope you find it useful: :
http://www.modelcarsmag.com/forums/i...p&fromsearch=1
I paid particular attention to the ride height, cockpit, engine bay and finish. I found great reference to be a huge help.
If I do another, I would shim the rear clip bottom edges with .010" stock to get a better shut line-your latches are great but I don't have that talent. A warning about pre-fitting: I found that when the cockpit tub was installed, and the roof section pressed over it, the mating line at the sill was difficult to get flush. I think another solution to the fit of the rear clip is to remove material from the inner upper edge where the clip rests on the roof tab-allowing the lower edges to seat more flush. General fit elsewhere on mine was good. Since completion, I've made small refinements such as replacing the clip hold down lanyards with .006" wire and small paint touch ups.
Look forward to your progress and solutions-I just may do another 'better' one...
