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, May 6, 2017

Fuselage

Sealing Firewall perimeter  ( 4 hrs )

After discussion yesterday with Sterling at Van's Prod Support about daylignt showing at LH & RH lower corners for Firewall (ie air leaks !), decided to seal today.  He confirmed Vans uses Pro Seal (ie Tank Sealant).  He noted notches around perimeter would need sealing, and now would be good time to do both.   So I masked around areas, and used 1 oz Tank Seal.  Wow, kinda forgot how sticky and taffy like - hard to apply "neatly" - but got 'er done.  Checking  (w/ bright light inside & shop darkened)  to confirm all sealed, I discovered about 22 locations where their sealant applied between layers of fuselage skin and firewall flange was insufficient (gaps).  Masked again, repeated with more Sealant.   Finally!  it's sealed around entire perimeter.   Also deburred ELT Antenna Bracket & Shoulder Harness Lugs.  Lugs get special treatment to chamfer upper edges ( assume minimizes "show through" as installed inside curved Aft Fuselage skin).
doing again, sealing gaps in layers between outer skin and firewall flanges

inside showing notches sealed from front


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