If you thought only a licensed mechanic could keep your airplane running smoothly, think again. Although the FAA does limit the kind of work an owner/operator can perform, there are plenty of steps you can take to make sure your plane flies longer and better - more important than ever considering how expensive and hard-to-get new aircraft are today. This timely manual is filled with innovative ideas and up-to-date tips for increasing the life of your plane while keeping up with ever-changing FAA regulations and requirements. You'll find out how to get results through a regimen of preventive maintenance and sound operating procedures; reduce emergency repairs to little more than an unpleasant memory; and become a safer, more proficient pilot by better understanding your plane's unique operating characteristics. Loaded with operating tips for extending the life of your plane, this eye-operating guide also thoroughly covers FAA regulations on maintenance and repairs, cleaning and storage, troubleshooting aircraft systems, do-it-yourself maintenance, the annual 100-hour inspection ... and much more. Appendices cover AIM/FAR Part 43 and list recommended tools.