Steevo's RV14a Build Log: Fuselage

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 5, 2017

Fuselage

Fuel Lines, etc ( 4 hrs )

Installed all 4 Fuel Lines per Sect 31-06 to -11. Perfect fit - Thanks! Aircraft Specialty. Really challenging to access most of the coupling nuts. A 11/16" crows foot wrench was essential. Per 31-08, installed eight Bracket halves to capture Fuel Lines. Dug deep into tool box trying variety of attachment combinations...some pretty creative. Glad when last of those were done. Van's product support Sterling called late today responding to email about Rudder Center Bearing Block not fitting correctly. He recommended checking if assembly was bowed due to heat from welding, and bend straight if more than 6mm off. But my straight edge revealed hardly any (less than 1mm) bowing. So OK to trim off top surface. Used table saw to remove 3.5mm from plastic bearing block top surface. Now it fits perfectly, with no added drag to Rudders, and zero interference with Center Support. Yay !