Yes Rick, I think the bottom example is the way Leonard drew it (except the strut would shift to the left, but I knew what you meant)... Either way would probably work (the OCD in my brain likes the top one) BUT that wasn't you original question... If your really concerned, you could always call Leonard... (It'd be a good excuses to talk to the man, lol) Hope that helps...
Pappy,
I was lucky to have talked to Leonard back in August regarding tail sections. He was very helpful, he also let me know he had just started another plane built . . . forget the name, but not his design. Just incredible at 101 years, so I don't want to interrupt his progress!
I just found another reason while laying out on the table to go with the top layout posted. I don't know about the XL, but on the plans for LEU Leonard calls for an aileron length of 73.25". The top layout if my math is correct is just under 75", bottom layout is 2" longer at just under 77".
If you don't mind me asking, how long are the XL's ailerons?
Thank you for being so helpful.