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.

Tuesday, April 26, 2016

Empennage


Elevator ( 4 hrs )

Sect 9-17, Step 3:  Completed rivets to Ribs & Shear Clips to LH and RH Rear Spars.  

Sect 9-18, Step 1 & 2: Primed all 4 Skins inside surface along rivet lines and similarly scuffed zones (only).    Removed tape from zones for bonding Foam Ribs and TE later (see pic below)

Then riveted Forward Hinge to Rear Spar & Top Left Skin.

Temporarily assembled Trim Tab hinge to confirm smooth operation.   Looks and works great !


















Step 3:  Back Riveted Ribs to LH Top Skin.

















Step 4- 5:  Right Rear Spar riveted to Right Bottom Skin.  Careful to mark locations not to be riveted at this time, too.  Plan to back rivet Ribs to this Skin tomorrow....
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