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, April 23, 2018

Firewall Forward Kit

 RTV sealant on Baffles.  Oil Temp Sensor moved ( 3 hrs )

Applied Hi-Temp RTV at Engine to Baffle small gaps per Sect 47-24, Step 4.  Van's Eric Rushing (Prod Supp) confirmed error in instructions at Sect 43-05 for Garmin Oil Temp Sensor.   I discovered different location shown in Sect 51-06, which is closer to the oil filter.   Apparently Vans has been aware of error, but hasn't yet issued revision.   Aaaargggghhh !     Of course I followed instructions in Sect 43, when I had easy access to back of engine prior to installation.   To relocate, required removal of Breather tube, and re-do of safety wires.   Apology from Vans accepted...kind of.  Aaaarrrrgh.....
pic of original location.  investigating what to do with red plug 
led to discovery Vans has error in Sect 43-05.

after moving Oil Temp Sensor to correct location (Sect 51-06), 
and re-installing plug with safety wire.  Safety wire not required 
per Vans, but Sensor has provision, so I installed.   Would have
been whole lot easier if Vans had instructions correct !

red hi-temp RTV sealant applied







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