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, December 12, 2017

Finish Kit

Engine Mount and Gear Attachment ( 2 hrs )

Separated on band saw the "heavy" aluminum angles for Gear Attachment per Sect 40A-02 in Step 3 - then ground smooth. Per supplemental insert to Step 9 at Sect 40A-03, filed clearance for U01404-L & -R Upper Gear Braces due to interference with Seat Rib and Doubler. Required a few iterations to get just right. Spent lots of time on phone with Vans product support to determine the Engine Mount weldment has 1.675" long tubes (vs 1.375") for upper bolts such that specified AN6-24A bolts are too short. Vans mailing AN6-26A longer bolts so correct thread engagement. Their inventory is all correct at 1.375" - so mystery about how mine was welded with incorrect tube length. Note: Vans will NOT expedite replacement parts (not their policy)...aarrrgggh ! They also aren't concerned other builders may have completed their build with insufficient thread engagement, believing apparent at assembly. In another issue, when I couldn't find the Gear Shims, determined they should have been included Gear Shims F14129AB (0.016") and CD (0.025") -- but missed including in inventory for QB Fuselages (quick build). In the mail now... double aarrrggghhh !