I've had both versions of the jib sheet systems; there are advantages and disadvantages to both:

Cleat on the traveler:
PRO
1) Simpler
2) Doesn't require you to sheet out as much when you move the traveller
3) No cleat on the crossbar in the crew's face or in the way when the crew takes a header over the crossbar during a pitchpole.

CON
1) Sheeting angle changes as you travel out. Makes it hard to uncleat from the wire when travelled out.
2) On older boats (w/o integrated tracks), sits up a little higher, so you can't sheet in as tight (affects mast rake)

Cleat on the crossbar:
PRO:
1) Low stack height, more potential mast rake
2) Consistent cleating angle - easier to uncleat

CON:
1) Requires more sheet; sheet must run out as you travel out
2) Cleat on the crossbar will take out chunks of flesh if you pitchpole and slide forward off the boat.
3) More complex; more inherent friction.

It boils down to personal preference. For an older boat, I would tend to go with cleats on the crossbar so I could reduce the stack height. Mast rake has more effect on speed than almost anything else, especially in heavy air.

Rudders:
EPO's are the best, but good ones are very hard to find now.
I've got the Hobie race rudders on my boat & I've got no serious complaints other than the gelcoat finish is soft compared to the rock hard finish on the EPO. Every rudder I've ever had on a 16 (PVC, Lexan, EPO, fiberglass) have required "finish work" to clean up the leading and trailing edges. The leading edge needs to be round and smooth; the trailing edge needs a 1/16" squared off edge to prevent humming and flow separation. I also wet sand the entire blade to get rid of the mold release wax and promote flow adhesion.