Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 04/29/16

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.

Friday, April 29, 2016

Empennage

Elevator (3 hrs )

Sect 9-19, Step 3: LH & RH Elevator Skins top and bottom cleco'd together at Ribs...to blind rivet soon. Sect 9-20, Step 1-4: Get to try out RV10 Special Bucking Bar (borrowed from Terry Moushon, builder RV10 Thanks Terry !) After shimming to prevent any deformation of TE skin "reverse bends", used special bucking bar to rivet Rear Spar.

Instructions have you start with LH Elevator, since those are on bottom (any oops will be less visible). Good idea, but whole procedure was much easier than I'd feared. Just insured bar was correctly positioned for each rivet. Both LH and RH Elevators are A-OK.

Step 5-6: Blind riveted Top and Bottom Ribs to each other, joining Elevator into an assembly for Left, and one for Right. Sure was important to use extension handles on rivet tool ! I used cardboard under tool also, to prevent any "dings" to skins when each rivet "pops".