I'm thinking if I cross them, they will show me where. A lot less "Engineering".

Well, that's probably the best approach. If you're lucky, they might not need any connection across the back. When you figure it out, a photo of it on would be good to see.

Also, what all else is hanging on your belt, and where is it located?

There isn't much room for other stuff. What else are you thinking of?
My garters are under my pants, for no one to see..........

I've seen several guys with them but never noticed how they were used. It might be smart to cross them at the back, perhaps held with a Chicago screw or something. It would depend on placement of the straps on the belt. You may want to play with different configurations.

I'm thinking if I cross them, they will show me where. A lot less "Engineering".

well, that's a quandary....

I also like my Colts, in my case Richard's conversions.
Though I don't have a Schofield, I do have a New Model #3,
I wanted one, finally got in 2013 or so and would not part with it.

I think in your situation, I might let the 3 1/2" go, and find the OT backup you seek.
  I'd hang on the other one, just cause I might would kick myself later it I did.
As to the Lighting, the replicas as a general rule are problematic in competition.
I believe, I'd be remorseful having purchased a troublous Lightning repro.

However, seem to recall the Pedersoli was the least problematic.
The Taurus and USFA being the more troublesome of the manufacturers.


 

Well, this is a problem. I have a pair of nice Uberti Schofields in 45 Colt and love them. I had to send one in for factory work and while it was gone ran my Opentops with Army grips. I shoot the Opentops better! So I know that while I love the Schofields, I will continue to run the Opentops when competing. I will need to pick up another OT as a backup. But since I won't be shooting the Schofields, I know one guy who desperately wants the 3 1/2" and would buy it in a heartbeat. Should I sell the Schofields? It would also let me pick up a Colt Lightning repro if I did.