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, August 31, 2016

Empennage

Empennage Fairings ( 3 hrs )

Layed up my first fiberglass "sheet" -  two layers of  9 oz ( medium weight ).   Per instructions, selected scrap aluminum and marked outline, then waxed surface using candle wax.   The green cloth is nylon release ply.  Since not sure this will work well, I've layed extra material to test.   Using West System 105 Resin, and 206 slow Hardener.   Also purchased West System pump pack, which makes dispensing correct amounts really simple and clean.    The exposed surface seems to be smooth enough for the inside surface anyway.   Otherwise, repeated trimming RH Tip just as I did yesterday for LH.  Drilled #40, then Final Drilled via #30 reamer.  This side seemed to go quicker since I learned considerably from LH Tip.
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