![Maintenance technician William Vergonet conducts an inspection on a Cub. [Credit: Lisa Turner]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/IMG_3535.jpg?w=534&h=462&crop=1 "Post-Flight Maintenance Debrief")
![Pat McKiernan has found that he and his dad who built this beautiful RV-7 simply learned to enjoy the build. [Credit: Bill Wilson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Builder.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Life Lessons From Building an Airplane")
![[Credit: AdobeStock]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/AdobeStock_51865118.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "FAA MOSAIC Rule Fully Implemented")
![My 36 year old clipboard from when I started at Boeing. Engineering ruler and fastener/fastener hole cheat sheets. [Credit: Andrew Robinson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Liaison_clipboard.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "What Is a Liaison Engineer?")
![At Sun ‘n Fun 2026, Viking Aircraft Engines surprised the crowd with its first complete kit — the V-42, a high-wing twin powered by two Honda-based engines. Here’s an early look. [Credit: Andrew Robinson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/P1020293.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Viking V-42 Twin")
Field Notes on an Installation
What you need to consider before installing Garmins new GTN 650/750 series navigators in your homebuilt.
Vroom!
Months of repair work netted Bill Repucci a new, more powerful engine for his RV-9. The increase in horsepower brings with it a shift in CG and handling characteristics.
Learning To Weld
Ken Scott finds that practice makes perfect (or pretty good) as he puts his newfound wire-feed welding skills to the task of replacing rotting wood hangar doors with sturdy, steel-frame ones.
The Ultimate Upgrade
With Lancair’s factory-authorized builder assistance program, new Evo owners Wendell and Martha Solesbee get a leg up on their project. Custom jigs and extra hands take weeks off the build time and ensure they’re ready for the next steps.
Ask the DAR
Major changes to your homebuilt aircraft require sign off by the FAA. Mel Asberry explains how to keep it legal.
Aero ‘lectrics
There are many ways to check the accuracy of your airplanes tachometer. From the commonplace to the offbeat, Jim Weir explains their benefits and drawbacks.
Interference Drag Adds Up
Barnaby Wainfan explains the role of properly designed wing-fuselage junctions in reducing interference drag.
Riding the Radial Rocket RG
The Radial Rocket TD already had a following, but with some tweaking and the addition of retractable gear, the new Radial Rocket RG is poised to take off. By Ed Kolano.
Editor’s Log
Mary Bernard discusses staff changes at KITPLANES and the new series and columns that are making their debut this month.
In Case You Missed It
Practical Electrical
Battery facts and fables: lithium lead-acid equivalency. By Robert L. Nuckolls, III.
