![SR-1 cowl being integrated with spinner and cooling ducts. The cowl is assembled to itself/to the fuse primarily with countersunk #8 screws. [All images credited to Eric Stewart]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/1KP.jpg?w=534&h=462&crop=1 "Custom Cowl Fabrication: Building the SR-1 Composite Cowl")
![Trimming composites gets the full PPE job. [Credit: Eric Stewart]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/7-2.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "A Few of My Favorite Tools")
![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=265&h=198&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")
Improper and Proper D-Sub Connectors
The connector in the left photo was discovered on the back of an autopilot control head that was intermittent. D-subs require a backshell (right...
Metal Magic: Drilling Like a Pro
It pays to get good with drilling because you'll be doing a lot of it.
Metal Magic: Tools
In this episode of our video series, Paul Dye describes some of the common tools a builder of a metal airplane will use.
This series...
Keeping It Simple and Affordable
The freedom to roll your own electrical system means you can make things very simple or very complex as desired.
Clean Oil Makes for a Happy Engine
You can do two things that will extend your engine’s life more than any others: Fly your airplane regularly and change your oil as...
Cylinder Hones and Honing
Honing and lapping are similar inasmuch as both employ abrasive action to remove metal and refine the finish of the surface that’s being honed...
Metal Magic: Shop Safety
In the first episode of the new KITPLANES Metal Magic video series, our host Paul Dye, multi-time builder and former NASA Flight Director, takes...
Makin’ PC Boards
Looking back at projects in prior issues of KITPLANES®, I realize I’ve given you a lot of good ideas for circuits without telling you...
Clearly the Same?
There are two materials that are commonly used for homebuilt windshields and windows: Lexan and Plexiglas.
Where’s the Throttle?
Engine controls, and all other controls in the cockpit, should be labeled as to function and direction. It is standard practice to use black...
In Case You Missed It
Prepare for a Charge
The battery you install in your homebuilt kit will have nearly the same kind...