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.

Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Finish Kit

Main Gear Leg - RH  ( 4 hrs )

Completed torquing LH Upper Gear Brace.   Then installed Main Gear Leg per Sect 40A-04 with Attachment Angle and Attachment Bar.  Lots of bolts with awkward or limited access...so time consuming.  Worst was the Main Gear was very tight fit into U1402 forward and aft edges ...but applied Boelube, and lots of rubber hammer blows, and eventually "walked" it up to alignment.  Didn't need the shims per Fig 3.
Sect 40A-04.   It's tighter space than appears in dwg.
RH Leg done.   Yet to remove temp leg on spar.



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