Maintenance

Each one of our experimental aircraft is unique, but they share many systems which need maintenance. It has to be done regularly to keep the aircraft airworthy, and it must be done correctly. Builders and owners share knowledge and tips for saving money in the process.

Engine disassembly

Engine Overhaul

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As part of requirement to obtain my A&P certificate, I was to witness a few more engine overhauls, so I called Poplar Grove Airmotive...
lightweight-small-jack

Lightweight Custom Jack

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Steve and I recently installed a set of Thomas Cox’s jack pads on our tricycle-gear GlaStar. These beautifully machined pads fit perfectly and will...
bug plug - prevent insects from crawling in

Bug Plug

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How to make an inexpensive plug to keep bugs out of your airplane Buy a 100-pack of bright orange “fuzzy sticks." Used to be commonly...

Frayed Rudder Cable

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During my first annual condition inspection at about 100 hours, I had quite a surprise; the forward rudder cable had gotten caught on the...

Nuisance Oil Leaks

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With about 370 hours on my Superior XP-360 engine, I had developed several small leaks that were difficult to track down, but I discovered a...
Jacking the floats

Float Rigging Design & Maintenance, Part 2

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In the first installment of this article, I conveyed information learned about the geometric design as well as the re-design of my floatplane rigging...
Jacking adapter drawing

GlaStar Jacking Adapter

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Here is my jacking adapter for my GlaStar. As you can see, it requires that the cut-outs for the other landing gear legs be...
Cracked Sportsman nosegear bushing

Sportsman Nose Gear Bushing Inspection

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When performing an annual inspection on the Sportsman nose gear, be sure to take a close look at the condition of the shock bushings. The...
Spark plug tray, adjusting tool, gap gage, spark plug socket and extension, magneto timer, torque wrench, combination wrenches, ratchet, socket and extension

Tools to Maintain Your Sportsman or GlaStar

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As we get more Sportsman builders who may not have extensive tool collections, the question has come up, what tools do I really need...

Hazardous Chemicals in the Building Process

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As you build and maintain your airplane you will likely use a number of hazardous chemicals. Knowing how to handle these chemicals safely and what...