![Trimming composites gets the full PPE job. [Credit: Eric Stewart]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/7-2.jpg?w=534&h=462&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")
Lightweight D-Sub Connectors
Working on wiring recently, I became concerned about the weight of all the D-subminiature connectors, so I weighed a pair of D-sub shells:...
Alodine Sluice
Alodine is an excellent corrosion inhibitor plus it adds zero weight. I should have Alodined before assembly but didn't care for the chemicals. AlumiPrep...
Fuel Dipstick and Holder
The first photo shows the fuel dipstick I made in its holder, and below that is the fuel sample tester for my Van's...
In Case You Missed It
AN960 Washers, the Penny and My Thoughts
Not a week (sometimes a day) went by during my Sonex career that I...
Aithre Illyrian Smart Pulse Oximeter
For full-time SpO2 monitoring, stick the Illyrian under the headset and let the app do the rest.
Letters
Fiberglass/Epoxy LayupsIn "Maintenance Matters" on page 52, a photo shows a fiberglass/epoxy layup...