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.

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Avionics

Pitot Heater wire install & ADS-B Antenna ( 3 hrs )

Crimped open barrel male pin (ref Sect 5-21 for instructions) to red 14ga wire for GAP 26 Pitot heater power. After inserting into Pin #4 location in Connector P400 at Wing root (ref Sect 19-02 Fig 1 and Detail A ), routed outboard to Pitot mast. Stayed far away from GMU 22 magnetometer as well as aileron pushrod. Next, installed the monopole antenna ADS-B/Transponder at bottom rear of tail. I recently considered changing to a blade antenna, but the extra $130 cost ( 6x !) seemed excessive for the reduced drag. Most builders install the monopole, but Vans provided the extra holes in this area for a blade antenna. So I decided to use the monopole and simply "plug" those unused holes (Vans prod support confirmed). I used small alum pieces placed with lots of J-B Weld to fill the holes. This can be sanded flush on exterior. I also placed ~ 2" piece on extra blade antenna holes in mid-fuselage with same epoxy.