Exhaust cracks can be insidious, although sometimes they leave a gray-looking residue. Use a bright flashlight and inspect them every time the cowling is off.
![[Credit: Wikimedia Commons]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/4_rutan_a_longez.jpg_preview.jpg?w=218&h=150&crop=1 "Rutan Symposium Turns to the Coming Canard Maintenance Crisis")
![[Credit: Lisa Turner]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Fuel-Selector.jpg?w=218&h=150&crop=1 "Fuel Follies")
In Case You Missed It
Unusual Attitude
If you want to install an alternative engine in your aircraft, make sure you've thought through the issues of weight, thrust line, cooling and cowling.
Unusual Attitude
Doug Reeves, creator of the Van’s Air Force web site, shares his personal philosophy about what it takes to fly safely and responsibly.