Steevo's RV14a Build Log: Finish Kit

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.

Tuesday, September 5, 2017

Finish Kit

C01409-L ...bum part ( 3 hrs )

After holiday weekend, back to building. Discovered C01409-L Angle was incorrectly formed (stamped) by Vans or supplier. I followed Sect 38-11 instructions to separate LH from RH in single formed part, then ground edges smooth. Followed Steps 4 & 5 to flute flange until bottom flange was flush to level surface. But I noticed when lining up C01407-L Rail, it was "off" almost 1/8" from Rail's edge along center...AND it was now bowed along it's length. I performed same steps for symmetrical RH Angle, and it fit perfectly along Rail, aligning with it's edge as shown in Fig 2. Side by Side comparison revealed LH Angle has it's bend (stamped shape) at wrong distance from holes. Sterling at Van's product support checked their inventory, and although he measured 0.015" difference in LH vs RH hole locations from bend, its nowhere near the 0.125" delta on my part. Assume the metal did not stretch properly, or something slipped in forming. Van's is mailing a free replacement, and examining what happened in producing those parts, too. (bummed I spent 1 hr on bandsaw and grinder and another hour resolving - and Van's won't pay to expedite the part to me ). At least discovered prior to going any further. So...I worked on other parts such as Sect 38-13 Canopy Handles, and Sects 38-11 Step 6 machine c'sinking Canopy Rail Flange.