Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 05/27/16

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, May 27, 2016

Empennage

Aft Fuselage ( 2.5 hrs )

Sect 10-11, Steps 6 & 8: Machine countersunk Battery Angles for flush rivets to retain nutplates - then riveted on the nutplates. note: 2 are are different #/size thd. (also 2 locations are NOT used as in RV10 on same parts).
Sect 10-12 - Separated and deburred all edges on Bellcrank Ribs. Deburred edges on F01406B Bulkhead. Cleco'd Bellcrank Ribs & Battery Angles together to Final Drill #30 holes. Dimpled flanges for Battery Bulkhead also.

Pic below is mock up assembly prior to scuff, clean, prime... Still some more dimples and nutplates on bulkhead.

Empennage

Thursday, May 25, 2016
Aft Fuselage (4.5 hrs )

Sect 10-11 Steps 2-5: Finished deburring - geesh, there's a lot of edges due to slots for longerons, etc plus many lightening holes. Repeated scuff, clean w/ acetone, and spray Primer 7220 (Napa brand). Riveted bulkheads. Mostly completed Battery Angles steps to add nutplates on same section.