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.

Thursday, November 30, 2017

Finish Kit

Interior Covers ( 3 hrs )

More deburring of various Covers in Sect 42. Added 6 nutplates to 2 completed prior. Riveted Doubler to Aft Tunnel Cover - but changed to flush rivets for smoother appearance around Fuel Control Knob. Adequate clearance was designed into pieces to clear the required dimpling. Back to finishing the Canopy Fairing, I sprayed 2 coats of sandable primer - part # A4240 Primer from Cromax. Pleased with overall smoothness and contour...but I have more pinholes to fill. A Dupont paint rep recommended since acrylic based for better compatibility with assumed exterior paint by local paint shop Byerly Aviation ( vs oil based Rustoleum primer I was considering). I recently contacted Jerry Piatt at Byerly who recommended I contact Tom, his Dupont paint rep locally at National Coating & Supply).