Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 04/02/16

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.

Saturday, April 2, 2016

Empennage

Elevator (4.5 hrs)

Sect 9-2 Step 4: Used hand seamer to adjust flanges to 90 deg on both E-904 Inboard Ribs and both E-903 Outboard Ribs. At Step 5, fluted each to insure all holes along flanges in a straight line - considerably more needed than typical on prior parts. Re-checked the 90 degs, and tweaked a few locations. Per instructions, insured holes are straight by "cleco'ing" the Counterbalance Skings to the Ribs. Perfect fit and alignment.

Steps 6 & 7: Assembled Tip Rib Assembly. Cleco'd, and Final Drilled (#30 Reamer) holes in mating Ribs, and FD the holes (#40 reamer) in flanges to Counterbalance Skins (2X).

Pic shows where Elevator Tip Fairings will fit - but not until much later at Sect 12-05. Curious about fit, etc....

Sect 9-03, Step 1: cut out templates from page 29 (actually used photocopies after insuring true 1:1 size). Worked well to apply spray adhesive to each surface. Bandsaw cut out Foam Ribs. Used a gentle touch on 6" Disc sander to finish edges to the template's lines. All Foam Ribs finish sanded, and ready to use.

Sect 9-3: Step 2: For Trim Tab Skings, removed hatched areas per plans for Close-Out Tabs at each end.