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, July 31, 2018

Finish Kit

Front Wheel and Leg Fairing ( 4 hrs )

Completed Mach C'sinking 6-32 screws attaching forward to aft shell Steps 9 & 10 at Sect 46A-14.  Lifted engine/airframe again to confirm clearance for full steering angles left and right.  Aligned and trimmed Nose Gear Leg Fairing per steps 1-4, Sect 46A-15.  Transferred bracket locations to fiberglass (much harder with later version painted fairings that are not translucent).   Cut .063 Piano Hinges to 28" length and marked rivet locations.  Sanded excess resin inside Fairing so hinges fit flush per Steps 1-3, 46A-16.
filler piece at top, and screws countersunk flush

tah - dah !  

trimming after cleco-ing along T.E. flange

bracket locations transferred, rivet locations marked on hinge
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