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.

Friday, January 18, 2019

Avionics and Firewall Forward Kit - Propeller

Canopy Harness and Spinner ( 2 hrs )

Laced wires and splices, then used spiral wrap to gather LED wiring.  Added clear silicone to hold wires to bottom of glareshield to complete Canopy Harness.  Confirmed all connections OK for  LEDs via 9v battery connected to Pins 7&9 (white) and Pins 8 & 9 (red).  Next, measured gap from Spinner Plate to Started Ring per Step 7, Sect 44-02.  Removed slight "dishing" in Plate and gap ranged from 3.033" max to 3.020" min  - so much less than .040" max variation allowed.  Completed Steps 1 & 2 at Sect 44-03 removing Spinner cut-outs.  Used thin diamond encrusted wheel on dremel (cuts fiberglass like butter !).   Trial fit on Prop shows more material to remove for clearance.
completed canopy wiring under glareshield.

Spinner came marked for cut-outs, but
 I used template Hartzell sent via email. 
Very close, slightly less at top.
Trial fit.   Some clearance needed, but close
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