Steevo's RV14a Build Log: Empennage

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.

Saturday, March 19, 2016

Empennage

Horiz Stab (3.5 hrs)

Sect 8-11 continued Step 3: Riveted 4 Nose Ribs into skins, 2 per side. Challenging and awkward due to reach and positioning -- especially when needing to switch using left hand for some of the rivets. My wife joined me to help hold skins "tight" to ribs for some locations...she was not only helpful but offered encouragement too. (although she did slip in comment "Rosie the Riveter would've had this done already")

inside pic showing Nose Rib after riveting

Step 4: Insert Front Spar / Inspar Rib Ass'ly into skins. Yeah ! fits great and aligns perfectly. Cleco'd Top and Bottom, Left and Right...took nearly hour just to check engagement of each cleco, etc.