Wing mods
Absolutely do the wing mods. This shouldn’t even be a question on a project of this magnitude. The 3 is a great plane that is a lot of fun to fly. There are a few areas I would focus on during the build to make it more enjoyable once finished. First, do the wing mods. Second, spend time on the gear and put serious dampers on the back of the legs. The shimmy is exceedingly annoying. Third, even the original wings can have wing tanks, at least I see that as an option in our old plans. A little extra fuel, more space behind the panel, and not having to worry about spilling fuel onto the windshield or dripping into the fuselage would make the extra time building wing tanks worth it in my opinion. Fourth, I’d recommend 160 horsepower and a lightweight fixed pitch prop. Fifth, and probably most important, is to build it light.
Here is why you need to build it light:
If you don’t list your own maximum weights, which you’ll have to do if it’s heavy, Van’s weights are as follows. Max is 1100 and Max aerobatic is 1050. It’s very easy to get to 850 pounds empty if you’ve got paint, IFR instruments, smoke tank, and a big engine. The B wing is heavier still. At 850 pounds, plus a 200 pound pilot, you’re already at aerobatic Max and haven’t even put any fuel in yet.
Keep it light!