Posted for vtailjeff@aol.com:

 John,
 
 Well you had to ask so here is my .02 cents.
 
 1. Why reinvent the wheel? The electric speed brakes offered by Precise
Flight work well and already are engineered into the design of the IVP.
Unless, of course, you (like the rest of us) just like doodling in the shop.
(BTW-- I have your carbinge hinges and they are great!)
 
 2. How are you going to plumb the hydraulic lines? I imagine you will use the
existing hydraulic system for hydraulic pressure. Three distinct
disadvantages:
 ?????? a. it is bound to be heavier than the existing electric system
 ?????? b. it will likely result in an increase in the likelihood of a
hydraulic failure. This?is not good. A hydraulic failure will probably result
in a gear up landing. IMHO the hydraulic system has one purpose. Put the gear
"up" and most importantly "down". Anything else results in a greater chance of
that not occuring.
 ?????? c. I just pulled my wings off to rewire them for deice. I cannot
imagine chasing a hydraulic leak in the wing.
 
 I applaud you for your inventive spirit. Best of luck!
 
 Jeff