Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 05/04/17

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.

Thursday, May 4, 2017

Fuselage

Rudder Pedals & Fuel Lines ( 3 hrs )

Still working on items easier to install with Fuse on it's side. So I installed the Brake Fluid Reservoir per Sec 33-06 Steps 1 & 2, and Step 1 in Sect 33-07, with T connector attached inside of firewall. Installed Rudder pedals - just the bare bars - as a trial fit-up. Required first removing burrs on tube ends, then sanding with 400 grit to polish contact zones (enough to slightly reduce diameter was required to reduce friction). Discovered Center Bearing Blocks are inexplicably 3 - 4 mm too "thick" and likely require trimming. Otherwise when installed they bow the cross tubes, and add drag. They did align well fore/aft. Without the Center Bearings, the Rudder Pedals rotate with minor drag. I emailed Vans Product Support to check if I'm missing something.

Received Fuel Lines from Aircraft Specialty - less than 1week from day ordered. Look terrific, and better yet, the one I trial fitted was perfectly aligned with flare fitting. I'm very pleased I took this route vs bending my own. Planning to permanently install tomorrow.