I've started my adventure to build a Van's Aircraft RV14a. For several years, I've been planning to build an Experimental (homebuilt) airplane - once retired.
But first, I needed to get my Pilot's License. (Kinda key !) So... first things first: I retired March 2014 from Caterpillar - and started flying lessons in the Summer of 2014. Soloed a day after Christmas, and got my Private July 2015. Shop set up, tools acquisition, and practise kits during Fall launched me into my build starting Dec 31, 2015 !

I've chosen to build the RV14a since it's about 10% larger than Van's prior models - so it fits my 6'4" frame well. Van's is well known for great value & outstanding flying qualities. It's been a no brainer decision for me. A tour of their facilities and demo flight in Oct 2013 clinched the deal. My wife - also a pilot - exclaimed after her demo flight "retire NOW so you can build one of these". The RV14a fits my mission of a good compromise between cross country & aerobatics. Plus...I fit, too.

So far, one month into building, it's been rewarding. Very challenging, but certainly a learning experience. The builder community is terrific - as is Van's tech support. I'm finished with the Vert Stab and Rudder (Jan 2016). So... with a 5 month delivery lead time, I've ordered the Quick Build Wings and Fuselage.

I hope this blog assists other new builders, just like several others have been valuable to me. Plus it will serve to document my build step by step. Please drop me a line via the "contact me" form on lower RH margin.
Update: April 2020 relocated to Wickenburg, Az to escape Illinois winters.

Monday, January 11, 2016

Empennage

Jan 9, 2016 (catching up in new blog...almost there!)

Vertical Stab (2hrs)

Sec 6-5    Step 3.   Almost done with Vert Stab assembly (at least this section of manual).
Key is following sequence along front spar from "center" to tip, then center back to root.   I was concerned with reaching these and "blind" bucking, but went better than expected.  Checking shop ends by pressing finger onto head, then measuring depression on finger.    While fingers get sore after awhile, sure feels good to get this part done.

Pics below show finished Vertical Stab...at least completed Section 6.   Hooray...!



Great idea to tape over holes to leave unfilled.  Easy to get confused as focused on riveting.




Above pics show after completing Step 4 - rivet along top and bottom, and along rear spar.   Required mostly Main Squeeze, but several required rivet gun and bucking bar due to limited access.   470 heads in spar next to skin rivets often prevented using squeezer.   Some I could do after switching sets, changing spacing, etc.    This last step took a little longer than expected, but looks great when done.

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