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.

Friday, April 8, 2016

Empennage

Elevators  ( 5 hrs )

Continued Sect 9-09 at Step 3.  Finished Final Drill #40 and #30 for all holes on RH Elevator.  Then marked parts and dis-assembled.

Began Step 4:  Deburr all holes and edges.  Major Task for so few words in instructions!
...all four Skins, all Sparts, Shear Clips,  etc.   So many holes, and both sides of course.  Requires considerable time  - good music helps, along with comedy podcasts.
example skin edged, holes deburred, and scuffed.  Next step Dimples.
Note: I follow this order:  Deburr holes,  Deburr edges, Scuff ONLY surfaces that are mating with "work" done (ie intact Alclad will not be scuffed in open surfaces),  then Dimple (easier to scuff prior to dimple).   Next Acetone clean, and finally spray Primer on specific locations.

Still have 1 0f 4 skins to deburr holes and edges, and Tip Rib Assemblies.
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