![Lowell Farrand spent years serving as an FAA DAR and is in the EAA Hall of Fame. He offers sound advise to builders. [Credit: Bill Wilson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/unnamed-4.jpg?w=534&h=462&crop=1 "Think Like a Builder")
![Author Bill Wilson takes a break from measuring and cutting the Lexan windshield during his Onex build. [All Images Credit to Bill Wilson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/image-2.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Think Like A Builder")
No Backshell and No Screw
I hate seeing D-sub connectors not supported or fastened correctly, as the wires will eventually break. In this case, two broken wires on the...
Firewall Forward: Spark Plug Maintenance
KITPLANES editor at large Paul Dye goes into detail on how to inspect and maintain conventional aircraft spark plugs in the latest installment of...
Repairing a Damaged Lead Counterweight
When trimming the elevator counterweights of a Van’s RV-14 kit, I modified one of the weights incorrectly. This led to the holes in the...
A Tale of Two RVs
“Homebuilt” aptly describes where most project aircraft are assembled. But as you approach the final stages, it’s common to move from the home to...
LED to a Landing
We have come a long way with light emitting diodes. They went from $200 a bulb in 1968 to 5 cents a bulb in...
Deformed Gascolator O-Ring
Some gascolators have internal O-rings that should be checked for deformation regularly. This was caught on an inspection, but the gascolator had blue telltale...
Firewall Forward: Ignition System Basics
This episode in our Firewall Forward series looks at magneto ignition systems and ignition timing. What it all means, and how to do it...
Firewall Forward: Oil Filter Cutting and Analysis
KITPLANES editor at large and experienced engine builder Paul Dye walks you through the process of cutting open the oil filter and examining the...
Overheating and Intermittent Electrical Problems
I find that overheating and intermittent electrical gremlins are some of the toughest problems to fix. Often, the data you are given to work...
In Case You Missed It
News from Sun n Fun
Attendance may have been down a bit with the slumping economy, but that didn't stop innovators from introducing new products for homebuilt aviation. A Staff Report.
Catching Up
Hangar tightens as a Murphy Moose build begins, sparking shop upgrades, parts hunts, and reflections on wind and freedom.
Why Reno Mattered
With nearly six decades of Reno air racing now behind us, it’s worth reflecting...