![The alternative to bending down as the propeller is pulled through the compression stroke is to keep the back straight and bend the knees slightly, stepping away in a crouch. [Credit: LeRoy Cook]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/IMG_1519-scaled.jpg?w=534&h=462&crop=1 "Manual Starting Methods")
![The newly-restored F-24 enjoying the morning sun. [All Images Credited to Mike Davenport]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/DSC_0001.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Golden Age Revival")
![[Credit: AdobeStock]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/AdobeStock_176619176.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Instructional Inflexibility")
![sideview shows the Better Half with the full VW case. [Credit: Legal Eagle Airplane]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Milholland-V-Twin_Side-View.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Better Half VW")
Engine Beat
Steve Ells explains the science of alternators, and offers some tips for understanding and troubleshooting problems with the system.
Ask the DAR
DAR Mel Asberry clarifies what notification the FAA expects when a prop has been changed. His advice? Treat it like a major mod.
Light Stuff
The Texas Sport Cub is the latest in a line of planes with the venerable Cub lineage. Dave Martin flies one and discusses the various licensing options available.
Clinks, Clunks, Tinks & Turns
Marc Cook explodes the not-invented-here myth, and explores what makes our panel equipment ergonomically sound—or not.
25th Anniversary: Engine Monitoring Comes of Age
Whats happening behind that firewall? Marc Cook traces the lineage of engine monitors over the past 25 years.
25th Anniversary: Power Shift
From scrounging engines to building Experimental powerplants: Editor-in-Chief Marc Cook looks at the last 25 years in engine choices for homebuilders.
Product Review: Garmin eLearning for the GPSMAP 696
Marc Cook tries out Garmins eLearning program for the GPSMAP 695/696.
Engine Beat
Do kit aircraft owners have to comply with ADs? Steve Ells examines the dos and donts of this tricky question.
Understanding the Scope of Your Operating Limitations
DAR Mel Asberry clarifies the confusion: Is a homebuilt owner bound by someone elses operating limitations?
In Case You Missed It
Buzzwords: Human Factors—The Basics
Small design considerations can have a big impact on comfort, convenience and safety.
Single-seat Economics
I love flying single-seat airplanes. In fact, for pure, unadulterated aeronautical fun, it is...