Builder Spotlight

There's no substitute for real-world testing--;something homebuilders should keep in mind when moving from the theoretical to the actual application.

Builders share their successes.

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...

Does an A&P have to sign off on an ELT inspection? And can a Sport Pilot fly a Cessna 172?

Personnel roles, emergency contingencies, communications-there are many moving parts involved in the first flight of a homebuilt. Paul Dye catalogs them and offers a sample flight plan that worked for him.

Dynafocal, conical or DIY? Some engine-mount decisions are dictated by your choice of engine, but there’s more to it than that. Dave Prizio walks you through the process of mating engine to airframe.

As electronic ignitions become more popular, some homebuilders will want to consider making the switch (especially given the potential savings in fuel costs). Tom Wilson provides an overview of the marketplace and offers a “cost-benefit” analysis.

How do you reconcile a discrepancy between two gauges in your aircraft, say, a float-gauge reading and fuel-totalizer data? It helps to have a deep understanding of your systems.

How do you know when the sum of purchased parts exceeds the 51% rule? Does the data plate have to match the registration? DAR Mel Asberry answers these questions and more.

Avidyne's new IFD540 GPS navigator will offer an easy replacement for Garmin GNS users.