Tech Support wrote in message
...

What would it take to convert a primary into a basic soaring machine
(35+ to 1)?.

Start over and design a completly different machine with a completely
different mission! Most true training gliders have an L/D of considerably less
than 35 to one.

I know sitting in open would be a high drag problem
but.......maybe a very light none structual wood frame cloth covered
to stream line fuselage?

The PW-2 Gapa is about as far as one can go with the primary concept. It is
capable of thermaling and extended (albeit local) flights given the right
conditions, but has a stated L/D of only 12.5.
http://www.soaravenal.com/gapa.htm I almost had access to one once. My
employer ended up with a nice one, but never got it licensed.

Vaughn