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, April 20, 2016

Empennage

Elevator ( 4.5 hrs )

Sect 9-14:  Spar riveted to Bottom Skin, and riveted 2 Horns.  The specified 3.5 rivets were slightly long, so had to be careful with alignment while starting each shop end (back riveting) to prevent curl over.  
bottom skin with horn attached


Prepped for bonding T.E. w/ 3M UHB double sided tape.   Also cleaned scuffed zones for bonding Foam Ribs.   Steps 3-6 included first time using Tank Sealant (otherwise known as Pro Seal).  As expected - kinda messy, high viscosity,  tacky, and smelly.  But planned ahead by double layering latex gloves and plenty of paper towels handy.  Not so bad as some builders have noted, but they again I wasn't sealing lots of ribs, rivets, etc in the wing fuel tanks.

Pro Seal coating Foam Ribs, ready for Top Skin.

Attached front half Hinge...great alignment. (Next: flip over, weights added for 2-3 days)

Really pleased with straight, tight layering and flush rivets.  No warps or waviness, but I haven't riveted T.E. -- since this assembly first needs to fully cure under weights for 2-3 days.    Note:  good idea from other builders to wear extra layer of gloves  --  removing one layer half way through process help keep the trim tab (and me !)  free of sealant except where expected.  

Sect 9-15:  Masked around locations for Foam Ribs on main Skins - then scuffed with 150 grit sandpaper.  After cleaning, masked those areas to prepare to spray primer (only intend to spray specific areas where working on holes, etc has damaged Alclad protection ).
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