Windwalkerar,
I have the told short gear.
They work fine.
While I don't know the dimensional specs they create about a 4" increase in stance on the ground.
The primary advantage is that you have greater ground clearance for soft field landings and more distance between the ground an the prop.
This means that you have more prop options available (read longer). This can create more speed.
Good short gear are not worth changing in my opinion, but if you are starting from a partially completed project, it would be a plus.
I think this also means a different (non-compatable ) engine mount from the shorties.
Having "short" legs never bothered me.
I'd say "don't fix what is not broken".
Daddyman
Dues + paid