If you’re just starting out as an aircraft mechanic apprentice or you’re getting ready to finish school, you’re probably wondering what tools you’ll actually need once you get out in the field. Here is my list of the Top 10 tools I actually use on the job: We’re assuming you already have the basics like screwdrivers, wrenches and socket sets. You need a good quality toolbox to work out of, but don’t go into debt getting the biggest fanciest box…
After a varied career in automotive, manufacturing and then laboratory testing, I’ve gone back to my hands-on busted knuckle mechanical roots. So, how do you combine a passion for aviation with a desire to work with your hands? Become an aircraft mechanic of course! Ok, but I’m married with children and have a mortgage how do I do that? Well there’s a few options, all of which I talk about here: Was it Easy to Do? Absolutely not! After multiple…
One of our most popular videos covered building and crimping Delphi Weatherpack electrical connectors. But there was one thing missing according to our viewers, good close up shots of the process! So, we invested in better camera equipment and this is the result: For more in depth detail on the connectors and each of the steps, check out the original video: I use the standard Delphi crimper and pin removal tools found HERE. Also, if you’re just getting started with…
Looking for the perfect gift for the aviator or aviatrix in your life? We’re a rare breed and can be tough to shop for. Don’t fret, here’s my Top 10 gift ideas for this 2020 holiday season. Let’s get this party started! 1. Heated Vest I was never a big vest guy, honestly thought they were kinda silly. Then I started flying and it all made sense. Plenty of warmth for your core without all the extra bulk in the…
As the icy grips of winter begin to envelop the Northeast, I’ve been reflecting on some of the fun flights and gorgeous sights I got to experience. Some centered one even in particular, the EAA Chapter 855 Poker Run. I won’t spoil the video, but with everything 2020 brought us (and took away), it was great to at least have one good aviation event to look forward to. If you’re new to the concept of a poker run, participants travel…
It has been some time hasn’t it? With everything going on in the world, I decided to take some time off from content creation to focus on my family. But don’t worry, work on the Sonex continued until I was finally able to move it to it’s new home. It’s finally back together as intended, and I’m in the middle of tying up a few loose ends before finishing a condition inspection. Then, that all important first flight. I got…
It’s all coming together, albeit a bit later than I had hoped. Isn’t that always the way? Here is my most recent update video: Update to the Update Since the video was published, I now have everything I need here in the Left Seat garage to finish this project. Still working out some details with the graphics. It’s actually quite difficult to find someone to make them right now with all this Covid-19 business. My Aero Conversions throttle is still…
Yup, you read that right. That is how Kurt Dugger refers to his PPG, or powered paraglider. The Darkhorse 450 was a fundraising effort in 2019 for the Darkhorse Lodge in Western Tennessee, and will be back bigger and better with more flying lawn chairs for 2020. Darkhorse Lodge Direct from their website: Darkhorse Lodge will be a retreat for combat veterans of all branches of service to come to relax, fish on Kentucky Lake, enjoy area activities and communicate with…
It took a few weeks. The schedule was always full, or the weather was pretty much always garbage. Nothing that would lend itself to pulling the plane out of the garage. Therefore, when I finally had the free time and a clear day over 40° F, the mission to breathe new life into the Sonex was on! (A buddy being available that day was a great bonus.Nothing like an extra set of hands moving even a light aircraft up and…
While we wait for the Sonex project to come together and take us on new adventures, it’s good to reflect on the one’s we’ve already experienced. One of my all time favorites, is when I got to combine my passion for aviation with my heart for the people of Western Alaska in 2013. I’ve been serving the youth and families of Alaska since 2009. I started on the road system in the town of Moose Pass, then found myself out…