Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 03/08/16

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, March 8, 2016

Empennage

Horiz Stab (3.5 hrs)

Sec 8-4, steps 2 - 7: For Doubler on Front Spar, Final Drill all the #30 holes, then C.S the 12 specified holes. With top and bottom Caps cleco'd, also CS the middle 9 holes on flanges.

Disassembled all parts to deburr all the holes (lots !) Buffed the parts with 3M Scotchbrite, then cleaned with Acetone. I was actually able to prime outside, since temp was unusually warm (74 degrees ) for early March in central Illinois. Nice to not have to set up and use the spray booth.

Ready to re-assemble and rivet per Sec 8-5.

Prior disassembly to scuff and prime....

Empennage

Mar 7, Mon

Horiz Stab (3.5hrs)

Sect 8-4: Started Front Spar build with deburring all edges, including lightening holes. Clamped Spar Caps precisely, drilled #30 holes & deburred. Re-assembled again with clecos so could drill #40 holes on flanges. Time consuming process. Per instructions, completed for top Cap, then repeated process for bottom Cap.

Note significant filings from using deburr tool on edges.