Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 01/16/17

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, January 16, 2017

Wings

Elect Aileron Trim ( 2 hrs )

Leak test LH tank again. Balloon stays inflated for more than 2 hrs, and I can't find a leak on surfaces I can access with soap bubbles. Need to flip Wing over to check other side - esp fuel fill cap area (think I did thoroughly first time, but want to repeat). All this to determine if need to remove tank from spar to access areas I can't reach when installed...such as back wall and outboard rib.

Installed Elect Aileron Trim assembly into Wing. Mounted 2 Spring Brackets onto Pushrod with blind rivets. I measured several times to insure correct position. When installing it's very challenging to stretch Springs far enough to attach to Trim Arm. Once assembled into Wing, confirmed clearances through full Aileron travel.

Endoscope view showing connector and wire routing

Endoscope view: Trim arm clearance above Pushrod

Once Wing was moved to horizontal on table (vs vertical in wing cradle) the Aileron moved to neutral position balanced by springs. Sweet !