Steevo's RV14a Build Log: Avionics

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, November 26, 2018

Avionics

Mag P-Lead, etc ( 3 hrs )

Attached two -12 size cushion clamps to engine mount near LH firewall and Left Mag to route wires for Fuel and Oil Pressure sensors, Oil Temp sensor, and P-Lead for Mag (combined w/ a -4 and -3 clamp). Clamped wires along upper rear engine mount tubing. Referenced Stein Air's schematic for GEA24 J243 connector for wire to wire connections. Josh Swenson at Stein provided tip for connection of P-Lead with ground wire: After uncovering braided shield wire, push braid backwards to open weave, then pull single wire for P-Lead out of open mesh ( I used a toothpick). This enables the braided shield to become a "wire" to directly crimp on ring terminal for gnd connection (instead of soldering a wire to section of braided shield). After practice with couple pieces, I decided this worked well for the P-Lead. No soldering, only #10 ring terminals added to ends. Included layers of heat shrink to each wire. Even remembered to include the MS25171-1S silicone terminal cover for the P-Lead post.