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, July 23, 2016

Empennage

Empennage Attach  (1.5 hrs)

LH Elevator attached to rod end bearings (i.e. hinges).   When assembled, determined center rivets along spar rubbing rolled leading edge of elevator in up position.  Also measured only 40.3 mm reference Fig 2 at Sect 10-3 clearance to Elevator Horn, vs 41.3 expected.    So, disassembled to revise rod end bearings to 21.6mm vs 20.6 (13/16") originally.  Did both LH and RH elevator to maintain consistency/alignment.   Also gently revised shape of rolled leading edge...less "flat" at center, more peaked toward center to better clear when raised or lowered.
Re-assembled, and no contact at max 30 deg up,  or as lowered.   However, can't reach full 25 deg down due to interference with Elevator Horn and lower flange on HS spar.  This area is "notched" for clearance, but need to trim ~ 2 mm to allow full down travel to 25 deg.  Want to wait until RH is installed to do both Elevator Horn clearances at same time.

Also used drill press and small file to reduce diameter of E-bushing so slides into VA-146A per instructions.  Ready to drill horn next.

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