Kitplanes

Flight Reports

Legacy Act

Marc Cook takes a close look at Erik Larson’s Legacy and finds out why Lancair’s rework of its seminal 200-235-320-360 design is as swoon-worthy as its predecessors.

Builder Spotlight

Family Legend

Starting as a Texas Sport kit, a little Cub with the unlikely name of Scrappy grew, with a host of custom touches and multigenerational effort, into a cherished family heirloom. By Scott M. Spangler.

Page Turner

Every homebuilder knows how important it is to document your build to meet the FAA’s 51% rule, but how you do it can range from handwritten notebooks to custom web sites detailing every rivet and pin stripe. By Marc Cook.

Kerpow!

An untimely prop strike results in more than just a call to the insurance company. Decisions regarding engine and propeller replacement open up numerous options. By Bill Repucci.

All About Avionics

As autopilots become more and more commonplace, their utility only gets better. Stein Bruch offers an overview of the latest trends.

Engine Beat

Vacuum systems may be an imperfect way to power instruments, but careful monitoring and maintenance can forestall common issues. By Steve Ells.

Completions

Builders share their successes.

Ask the DAR

DAR Mel Asberry continues his discussion of aircraft operating limitations by explaining what those Phase II flight test rules mean.

Shop Talk

Aero ’Lectrics

Jim Weir takes a look at low-cost and free CAD software available to help you document modifications you've made to your aircraft.

Designer's Notebook

Wind Tunnel

It’s easy to get carried away with new systems and technology that promise to make your airplane faster, smarter and even safer. But sometimes more is just more. By Barnaby Wainfan.

Exploring

Around the Patch

Marc Cook discusses the loss of Geared Drives’ Bud Warren and his daughter, as well as his decision to step down from his position as Editor-in-Chief.

What’s New

Flight Data Systems has introduced a new carbon monoxide detector that integrates with most EFIS units, American Legend introduces the Super Legend, Ace Aircraft is selling reproductions of Corben Super Ace plans from 1935, and RANS Aircraft has developed a control lock. Edited by Mary Bernard.

Geared Drives Remembered

The innovative work of Bud Warren contributed much to the homebuilt community and saved many an engine from being relegated to the scrap heap. By Rick Lindstrom.

Product Review: Dynon’s Handheld DX15

Dynon’s DX15 handheld transceiver marks the company’s introduction to a crowded product category. By Paul Bertorelli

Alternative Energies

Sun ’n Fun 2011 opened with stormy skies and a tornado, but the “Green Space” area offered a ray of sunshine at the rain-soaked event. By Dean Sigler.

Down To Earth

Swapping out an engine leads to an even greater question than just finding one that fits: How do you keep it cool? By Amy Laboda.

Free Flight

Venture out of your comfort zone every so often, because stretching can be fun. By Paul Dye.

Light Stuff

Roy Beisswenger takes a look at how you too can join the league of record holders in the ultralight world.

Kit Bits

Letters

KITPLANES Marketplace

List of Advertisers, Builders' Marketplace and the Classified Builder.

Kit Stuff

Drawing on experience; by cartoonist Robrucha.

Download KITPLANES® in PDF

Download the complete August 2011 issue of KITPLANES® in one PDF file.