![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=534&h=462&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")
Aircraft Welding Methods for Homebuilders
The choice of welding method for your homebuilt aircraft's steel tube fuselage represents one of the most critical decisions in your building journey. Each...
The “Rope A Dope” Trick To Avoid Replacing Cylinders
It’s never a good sign when during your aircraft annual inspection the mechanic calls to report an issue. It’s sort of like getting a...
Companion DIY Drill Guide
Build a simple aluminum jig to drill AN bolt threads for safety wiring—perfect for when your hardware bin is missing just one critical part.
Nuts. What to Do When Thrown a Curve
When fasteners crowd a radius or bend, radius washers, blocks, or spot facing can solve the problem—without compromising strength or workmanship.
Case Parting Plates
A low-cost, effective method for separating stubborn Lycoming O-290 case halves using homemade parting plates and basic hardware.
Taking a Shine To 6061-T6 – Part 2
Cutting the initial shine with NuShine II F9 is key to a polished finish. Here's how to master the pad, pressure, speed, and polish for gleaming results.
In Case You Missed It
Choosing the Configuration
Most of our recent discussions on the process of designing an airplane were based...
Product Review: Garmin GMA 240
Garmins latest com offering is a streamlined audio panel/intercom that doesn't do everything, but what it does-nav/com, music, muting and pilot isolate-it does exceptionally well. By Marc Cook.
Rear Cockpit: The Other Guy’s Plane
In a parallel life of mine—auto journalism—shop talk occasionally got around to just how...
