![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
Where’s the Throttle?
Engine controls, and all other controls in the cockpit, should be labeled as to...
Build a Custom Display for Your Panel
With some basic electronics and programming skills, it’s not as tough as it seems.
Archive: June 2013
Sonex’s blazing yellow Onex was on our cover this month—proclaiming “half the seats, twice...