On Tuesday, May 7, 2019 at 6:37:00 PM UTC-7, Larry Ruggiero wrote:
Not to pick nits but most DARs will include in a ship's operating limitations boilerplate that-- with exception of the builder (who receives a repairman's certificate limited to repairs, inspections and mods that specific aircraft only)-- annual condition inspections, repairs or modifications are to be performed by someone holding at least an A&P certificate (standard certificated aircraft require an A&P with Inspection Authorization for annuals and major repairs or mods)...

For amateur-built experimental aircraft, the annual condition inspection must indeed be signed off by the holder of the Repairman Certificate or by an A&P mechanic. But the official FAA guidance for inspectors and DARs is to issue operating limitations with no restrictions on who can do maintenance, modifications, or repairs. Anybody can work on an amateur-built experimental.

The only unique privilege conferred by the Repairman Certificate is the dubious privilege of signing off on the condition inspection. And I say dubious because I think it is better to bring in an impartial (or at least less partial) set of eyes to inspect work in which you have an emotional investment that might cloud your judgement.

--Bob K, EAA Technical Counselor