My First Homebuilt

I bought a started Homebuilt project from a Guy who passed on before finishing the build. His work is Top Notch and I don't think I will have any trouble getting his work accepted when I have the EAA people inspect the project. I believe that getting someone to look things over now is the best way to start out, then I can start my own documentation from this point on because I am going for the Experimental Certificate instead of the Part 103 route. After reading all I could find on the Banty, I do not think a 28 HP engine will be enough power and getting in under the 254 lb weight limit would be tough, because I will be using solid spars instead of the built up type shown on the plans. Going to modify the landing gear also, whats on the plans looks weak. My Fuse is 90% built and the Tail feathers are complete except for Hinging and covering and all the Ribs are built up and ready to slide onto the spar. This is my first attempt at building an airplane and any comments about my plan of attack would be welcome, I am going to need all the help I can get. Does anyone have any suggestions about which Powerplant to use or any Wing Mods for better strength or Safety concerns. I have started sanding on the Fuse as the Spar varnish has started to show some age and needs freshining up. Any Comments?