Monthly Archives: September 2012
Editor’s Log
The explosion of ADS-B technology, the new Van’s RV-14 and an editor in a ballistic-parachute simulator—AirVenture was full of exciting developments, as always. Plus: a send-off for Editor-at-Large Marc Cook. By Editor-in-Chief Mary Bernard.
Wind Tunnel
It’s all about lift, and knowing your airplane’s lift margin at a given airspeed tells you what the airplane is capable of.
Aero ‘lectrics
You need never again be greeted by a dead battery because you left the master switch on. With a few dollars’ worth of parts, you can build a simple alarm system.
Ask the DAR
Do I qualify as a Sport Pilot if I’m already a Private Pilot? Does the installation of skis constitute a major change? How can I get an N number? DAR Mel Asberry answers these questions.
Plexiglas Play
The advantages of Plexiglas are many, but there are some important things to know about working with it and maintaining it.
Build It Better: Building to Requirements
It can be tough to keep a homebuilt project from ballooning out of control when so many tempting innovations and extras catch your eye along the way. Having a specific vision from the outset can help keep things on track.
Flight Testing
Even current pilots need to hone specific skills before attempting a first flight in their homebuilts. There's only one way to do that: practice. And then practice some more.
Firewall Forward: Oil Coolers and Oil Lines
The right oil cooler, installed correctly, can maximize your engine’s life. Of course, you’ll also need to consider crankcase breathers, oil separators, oil filters, oil lines and connections.
Bringing a Baby Great Lakes Back
After developing an interest in aerobatics, one builder acquires an airplane that allows him to fully indulge that fascination (after a few hundred hours of rebuilding). By Ron Bearer Jr.
Avidyne IFD540
Avidyne's new IFD540 GPS navigator will offer an easy replacement for Garmin GNS users.
In Case You Missed It
Wind Tunnel
How do the power-to-weight ratio, wing loading, drag effects and propeller choices affect an aircrafts climb rate and climb angle?
Error Chain: It’s What You Don’t Know That’ll Kill You
Or, how to be lucky and dumb–a hypothetical tale in three acts.
NXCub Tri-Power!
CubCrafters’ NXCub brings tricycle gear to backcountry flying—easier handling, same rugged performance. A new take on the classic bush plane.
Building the ‘Beater – Part 6
As promised, Lycoming delivered the Thunderbolt engine in December to Vertical Aviation. Since this...