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.

Saturday, August 4, 2018

Finish Kit

Gear Leg Fairings ( 4 hrs )

Machine C'sunk for 2 lower screws retaining Nose Gear Leg Fairing.  Achieved 1/8" clearance to Wheel Fairing after several iterations to mark-trim-remount ...& repeat.  (aaargghhhh...just cautious to not trim to much).   Per 46A-18, lifted wheel off ground via engine so "steered" nose wheel full left and right.  So.... needed more clearance in 2 locations per side...so repeated...again.   Finally!  Started Main Wheel Leg Fairings Steps 1-5 at 46A-19.  Essentially same process as Nose Gear Leg Fairing.  Trimmed inner and outer ends after drill & cleco T.E.  Cut hinges to 25".
upper retention via bolt

checking 1/8" clearance...some more trimming needed

close up...not quite done trimming for clearance

steering hard right...more clearance needed.

trimming ends of main wheel leg fairings

about size of my R/C airplane wings !
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