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, April 16, 2016

Empennage

Elevators  (2.5 hrs )

Step 3-5 in Sect 9-12: Built the Elevator Trim Pushrod.  Key is countersinking both sides, and performing "double" flush riveting.  Pleased with result, but I used slightly longer rivets...  -4 instead of -3.5.    The shop ends filled the countersink better (not sure 3.5 would have even worked !).
shop ends mostly fill countersink
Simply hand "sanded" using purple 3M scotchbrite.   I could make these smoother, but don't want to remove any more material.

Step 6:  Trimmed away excess material on Trim Tab Horns, and deburred.  Dimpled ( after first cleco'ing to Trim Tab Skin and final drill the #40 holes)

Sect 9-13 Steps 1-3: Cleco together top and bottom Trim Tab Skins with 2 Foam Ribs, TE, and Trim Tab Spar.   Insured Close Out Tabs on top were on outside.   Dimpled 3 holes each end, then drilled to final size with #33 drill (for blind rivets...later).
 


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