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, May 28, 2019

Avionics

Instrument Color Markings ( 3 hrs )

Surprised limited info in Lycoming manuals, or via Vans, or VAF postings to recommend green, yellow and red color markings on G3X instrumentation.   So I gathered from those resources as much as possible, consulted with local experts Terry Moushon (Tech Counseler and builder RV10) and Bill Lane (RV 7 builder).   Lycoming test results for my engine were helpful (showing max and min Limits on several parameters).  Included pics below from powerpoint I created.   Setting up on G3X is almost fun.  I can refine these after first flights...but seem good starting point.


Camera doesn't focus well on display.... 
W/o Wings attached, don't have fuel tank senders connected, etc.

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