Build Your Skills: Composites (Part 7)
Author Bob Fritz explains how to set up a vacuum-bagging operation in your home shop, using readily available equipment and supplies, which will get you great results on small- to medium-size parts. The object is to mechanically squeeze out excess epoxy for a good-ratio part with maximum weight savings and strength.
Van’s RV-8: Sport Plane Standard Setter
Although the RV-8 debuted 12 years ago, author Ed Wischmeyer flies a splendid builder example and notes how the design has fared over the years; by Ed Wischmeyer.
Aircraft Handling: What’s It Mean To You?
Two seasoned test pilots, Chuck Berthe and Ed Wischmeyer, discuss their favorite aircraft and the traits that make the aircraft endearing. They also offer a brief history of aircraft design, and discuss the payoffs and compromises inherent in any design effort. Some of their selections are surprising. a Staff Report.
A Sign of the Zodiac (Part 5)
Builder Rick Lindstrom’s Zenith Zodiac 601 XL project continues as he discusses the successes and setbacks he experienced along the way to the first flight; by Rick Lindstrom.
O For Some Plans!
Builder Ray Ordorica is in the process of realizing a long-term dream of building the real airplane that he flew as a model during his early years. The project is not without its trials, though, as original plans are not available, and many small mysteries must be solved before the real building can begin; by Ray Ordorica.
Build Your Skills: Composites (Part 6)
In this series installment, author Bob Fritz takes you through the basics of a three-day project you can really use: lightweight fiberglass wheel chocks. The article covers materials, cutting, patterns, foam cutting, eliminating bubbles, and pitfalls to look out for during the build; by Bob Fritz.
All About Avionics, Part 7
If you intend to fly non-precision or precision GPS approaches, you really do need an IFR GPS. This article explains the options available and the legal issues associated with using the latest in-cockpit GPS technology for IFR navigation; by Stein Bruch.
Lancair Evolution
Lancair Aircraft is revolutionizing its already successful turboprop line of kits with the new Evolution, a 750-horsepower, Pratt & Whitney-PT6A-powered, carbon-fiber composite, 380-mph four-seater to be available later this year.
In Case You Missed It
Build Your Skills: Fabric
Fabric has been used to cover a wide variety of aircraft since the Wright brothers first started tinkering with flying machines. But fabric-covering processes have changed a lot in the last century, becoming more systematic in addition to being more reliable. Part 1 of this new series by Ron Alexander details the evolution of fabric covering and discusses some of the basics of getting started.
