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.

Monday, November 6, 2017

Finish Kit

Sanding Canopy "void"  ( 2 hrs )

Sanded void filler per Step 19.  Turned out pretty good (matches example in Van's video).  Cleaned thoroughly with isopropyl alcohol, adding a layer of masking tape along aft edge of Fairing area (will be pulled off with partially cured epoxy in later steps).   Note: I've detected a conflict in masked off area defined by earlier template vs new template for Ply A for fiberglass fabric in next steps.  Noticed first in Van's video their Fairing forward line of tape "widens" quicker as transitions to side of Fuselage.  Checked with new template for Ply A, and seems about 3/8" too narrow for several inches.  Since critical for fiberglass/resin adhesion surface area, planning to rework that portion of black vinyl tape line.  It's right where the filler starts getting wider, so reduces the aluminum surface area for resin adhesion.


from Oct 24 posting:   orig template for forward line. 
Surprised Ply A template conflicts with Ply A template. 
Need about 3/8" forward alum exposed in middle of
transition from top to side

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