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Steve Ells

Steve Ells
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Steve Ells is what you call a gen-u-ine mechanic, a bonafide A&P with an Inspection Authorization. Former West Coast editor for AOPA Pilot and tech guy for the Cessna Pilots Association, Ells has flown and wrenched on a wide range of aircraft. He owns and wrenches (a lot!) on a classic Piper Comanche. But don’t hold that against him.

The New Old Aero Engine!

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ULPower takes a different approach to air-cooled, horizontally-opposed, direct-drive engines. By Steve Ells.

Maintenance Matters

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No one wants to experience a faulty mag drop (especially with a nervous passenger on board). Steve Ells offers some tips on how to reduce misfires and maximize ignition-system performance.

Plexiglas Play

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The advantages of Plexiglas are many, but there are some important things to know about working with it and maintaining it.

Got Threads?

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What to do when you've stripped a spark plug hole or other threaded receptacle in your homebuilt (once the cursing has stopped)? We have ways...

Cable Classroom

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Most homebuilt aircraft use control cables, so it's helpful to understand how to select, install and maintain them.

Maintenance Matters

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In Part 2 of his discussion, Steve Ells delves into more detail about patching, repairing or replacing aircraft aluminum.

Maintenance Matters

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Damage to aircraft aluminum can be handled in one of two ways: repair or replace. Steve Ells explains what to consider when making this decision and asks three well-known kit manufacturers what they would recommend.

Maintenance Matters

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Veteran A&P Steve Ells explains the basics of setting up and organizing your home workshop, and the tools you'll need to complete and maintain your project.

Maintenance Matters

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In this new column, Steve Ells shares his background as an A&P mechanic and offers tips on keeping your homebuilt aircraft running smoothly.

Engine Beat

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

In Case You Missed it

How Fast Is a Speed Nut?

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A “speed nut” is a somewhat generic term that is occasionally used for a...

Viewfinder

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Marc Cook looks at an electric motorcycle’s lessons for electric aircraft.

Ask the DAR

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Registration and the Repairman’s Certificate.

All About Avionics: EFIS Dreams

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Much has changed since our last review of Experimental EFISes more than a year ago. It’s getting harder to differentiate among companies and their products as these systems mature and functionality becomes more similar. By Stein Bruch.