Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 01/26/19

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, January 26, 2019

Avionics - Nav Lights and Landing/Taxi Lights

Nav/Strobe Lights and Landing/Taxi Lights ( 4 hrs )

Completed mounting LH (green) and RH (red) Wing Tip Nav/Strobe Lights (Vans # LN-201-1) per OP55-02 Steps 1-3. Simple drilling and uni-bit to prep Wing Tip, then attached mounting plates. Crimped Molex pins to 4 wires on each. LN-201-1 comes with 4 Pin female Molex, but Wing kit wiring already has 5 Pin male Molex. Aarrgghhh! Vans OP55-03 shows 5 pin female Molex. Since Wing has mounting slot set up for the 5 Pin, I'm contacting Vans to provide correct female 5 pin Molex connectors. Meanwhile, completed Steps 1-4, Sect OP52A-01, "Aero LEDs Sunspot LX Landing and Taxi Lights": Created (8) 10 mm long spacers. Deburred all holes, edges and slots. Added 8 nutplates. Ready to prime and paint flat black.