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, August 2, 2016

Empennage

Empennage Attach (4 hrs )

Drilled opposite Elev Horn using Drill Guide Block.  Checked T.E. alignment:  close but not perfect (I jigged with straight edges to hold TE in alignment, so surprised wasn't dead on)   So I contacted Van's builder support, and discussed with Scott Risan.  He advised A-OK, within normal range.   Good news because difficult to modify now !

Sect 11-05 to Position and bolt on Horiz Stab to Aft Fuselage.  Drilled four 1/4" holes through Rear Spar of HS, and bolted on Vert Stab Bracket.    The mounting hole for V.S. is off-center slightly to left about 5 mm...as noted in instructions.  (offsets left turning from engine and prop torques.  This is a clever way to do it, and was probably easily adjusted in prototypes built to allow for revision)
drill guide block used at Elev Horn
Note off center hole for VS mounting




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