Raxacorico

Okay, thanks for the help. I figured out that the new root part was being placed in the 3D space inside my rocket when I clicked on the part in the partsbin. This moved my camera to the bottom of my rocket but I couldn't see the new root part. I guess it would be better if they just let you drag it in like a normal part, the way you guys described.

Aha, but then when I try to drag out a new command module i can't connect the ghostly remains of my rocket to it. Actually the view jumps to a point below my rocket when I first click on the new module... what is with that?

You can attach bits to strut the two items with. Or you might consider managing your thrust differently during liftoff. Adding full power all at once can subject your craft to terminal velocity drag and excessive thrust-related g-forces. Imagine squishing your poor rocket in an invisible vise made of rocket exhaust below it and the ambient air above it. You are right about the two parts disconnecting though... it might be nice if the crash report gave a more descriptive analysis of what went wrong. Maybe someday there'll be a mod to playback your crashes in slow-motion with keys on an animation slider and call-outs indicating where each structural failure event occurred.

The .20 patch notes say: The Editor now allows deleting or replacing the first part of your ship. I really want to know how to do this! What is the secret? If a kind soul who knows how to do all the new .20 stuff could write a short article here or post a vid that would be great!