Just prior to Oshkosh 2008 I began purchasing the aircraft specialty tools required to build the RV-8. As part of the tool purchase I acquired three maintenance reference manuals recommended by various sources. Most of these books are offered by the major tool vendors. The three books included Aircraft Structural Technician by Dale Hurst, The Standard Aircraft Handbook for Mechanics and Technicians by Larry Reithmaier, and the FAA publication Acceptable Methods, Techniques, and Practices, Aircraft Inspections, Repair & Alterations (AC 43.13-1B and AC 43.13-2A). There is some overlap in the information presented in these manuals but they are all excellent.
