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.

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

Empennage

Horiz Stab (2.0 hrs)

Finished Step 4 on Sect 8-8:  Machine Countersunk #40 holes on 2 Stringers for dimples on skin (same as for 2 Spars).   Scuffed, cleaned with Acetone, then primed with #7720 Napa self etching Primer.   All 21 parts (Nose Ribs, Inspar Ribs, and Inboard Ribs) plus 2 Stringers.
I've refined my priming technique.  For these parts, only scuffed the areas that I've "worked" with tools or grinder, etc.   That leaves the untouched Alclad un-primed.  Only sprayed flanges and edges.
Saves time, weight, and $.     It seems unnecessary to scuff perfectly good Alclad surfaces, only to then prime.    Plus, experience with some pieces with a light coating of this self etching primer demonstrated to me how effectively it adheres to otherwise unprepped surfaces.  No peeling, even with moderate scratching.  Tough stuff !
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