Thanks all -- glad you like concept/idea/etc....
Have to agree: "if this were my build, I'd leave it as is since complications tend to slow me down and sap my modeling mojo."
Messiness of cutting-patching fuselage probably destroy front finish. Or clobber whole build. Is decided,,, won't do that.
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Later.... let comments sink in awhile.
Will put jetliner style sideways flipping landing gear in wing root area. Can remain tail dragger, no problem.
Put on Aeroflot livery (need to check if have any). Trailing wing bulges that hold Tu-95 landing gear become Vodka transport tanks. Each tank gets filler and drain caps. Politburo VIP transport operated by Aeroflot.
Or,,, go with US airline or MATS markings. Trailing wing bulges are fuel tanks.