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.

Sunday, January 10, 2016

Empennage

Jan 7,  2016  (catching up in new builder's blog)

Vertical Stab  (3.5 hrs )

Sec 6-4  Step 6   Rivet Rear spar & hinges.    Great to see parts coming together.  Lots of different length and style rivets, but instructions are clear.  Surprised how much "grunt" takes to use Main Squeeze on the 1/8 inch rivets.   Lots of rivets, so got good exercise in arms.

Applying primer only to surfaces "scratched" during processing.  Trying to avoid excessive weight.  Some areas only receive light coat if Alclad is not been scratched.

Hole left open for Sec 10-05, 10-28, & 11-07.

Tape over some holes is temporary - until assembly with skin.
Sec 6-5 Step 1.   Assembled Front Spar. (no pics)  This simple step is challenging due to access to the rivets at angled flanges.   Worked through different set ups for each "joint" to enable proper access. 
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