Steevo's RV14a Build Log: February 2018

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, February 13, 2018

Avionics and Firewall Forward Kit

Magnetometer connector and Engine fittings ( 1 hr )

Inserted 9 pins for wiring harness for CPC connector for GMU22 Magnetometer per Sect 62-02, Step 6 (rec'd connector from Stein Air...missed in earlier shipment of sensors, etc. ref Avionics Jan 25 entry). Added RC-1 CAP Tach Drive Cap per Sect 43-05, Step 7, and added plastic drain line FF00013 per Step 4 at back of engine driven fuel pump. [ Note from the future: will discover on April 23 that the Garmin Oil Temp Sensor is installed in wrong location as shown below in pic. Vans incorrectly shows this location in Sect 43-05, Fig 1. However, later Sect 51-06 correctly shows in place of red plastic cover closer to oil filter. Vans confirmed error on April 23. I exchanged locations and installed the original plug from Lycoming in place of where I originally installed sensor. See last pic showing RC-1 Cap below for incorrect location ]

RC-1 CAP in center of pic

plastic drain line in center of pic