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.

Thursday, June 29, 2017

Fuselage

Rollover Structure  ( 4 hrs )

Rotated Fuse back to upright position with Nancy's help.   Per Sect 36-13 confirmed Control Base full Forward and full Aft angles are good as is ( Bearing Bracket stops don't need more filed off - Yay! ).   Forward max measures  15.1 deg vs 13.6 + 3.0 deg,  and Aft  max  measures 27.5 deg  vs 23.5 + 3deg.      [ Note:  Although Aft exceeds by 1 deg, when Elev is connected to pushrod later, expect to confirm Elev control horn limits travel Aft before Control Bases hit their stops.  Sect 36-16, Step 4 states Elev Horn hitting structure in Aft Fuselage should provide travel limits, not the Control Bases.   Previously with Elev assembled on Aft Fuse, needed to file clearance so Elev met those travel limits]  Started Sect 37 Rollover Structure by deburring edges and holes, and dimpling 5 locations.   Long edges, but mostly done.


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