Anatomy of a Modification
Paul Dye takes readers through a rework of his RV-3's fuel system to illustrate why some mods are a sound choice.
Ask the DAR
Can a former Part 103 aircraft be registered as an LSA? And how is an appropriate Phase I flight-test area determined?
Aero ‘lectrics
This month, Jim Weir describes how to create an LED strip with any three colors and offers a brief lesson on human optics too.
Wind Tunnel
Certain situations and configurations just call out for a ducted-fan installation. Barnaby Wainfan explains the benefits and drawbacks.
RANS S-7S Courier
Marc Cook pilots the new RANS S-7S and finds many improvements, from increased fuel and storage capacity to a simplified aileron-control system that makes handling better than ever.
Editor’s Log
Editor Mary Bernard addresses readers’ concerns about legibility in the magazine and offers a correction about pricing of the Safari kit helicopter.
What’s New
Master Mechanic introduces the Swift Driver, Aircraft Spruce launches an online magazine and offers a simplified FAR/AIM book, and California Power Systems carries Rotax 912 engine rubber replacement kits.
Viewfinder
Editor-at-Large Marc Cook takes a look at Rotax’s first foray into fuel-injected engines: the 912iS.
In Case You Missed it
Letters
Onex is LSA-EligibleLike everyone in aviation, we strive for perfection and occasionally fall short....
Firewall Forward: Electrical Systems, Part 1
Don’t be intimidated by the prospect of wiring—plenty of homebuilders didn’t know how to do it when they started their projects. Get yourself the right tools, then jump in and start learning. Dave Prizio outlines the basics.
What’s New
MGL extends its warranty, Grand Rapids introduces the Sport SX EFIS, Vertical Power has a new system, and more. Edited by Mary Bernard.
The Dawn Patrol
Dick Starks and The Dawn Patrol saddle, er, trailer up and head to the Salute to Veterans Air Show in Columbia, Missouri. Who else could lend his crimping pliers to a couple of sailors to fix an F-18s wiring problem?