Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 05/15/19

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.

Wednesday, May 15, 2019

Engine

EGT sensors (and more Fuel System leaking ? ) ( 3 hrs )

Back to trying to find leak in Fuel System ! At first, thought yesterdays leak discovered and repaired completely solved Fuel System "leak"...but after 1 hr, the 30 psi air pressure slowly dropped. So today repeated - and now won't hold pressure for more than couple minutes. Redoubled efforts with lots more soapy suds...thoroughly covering every possible joint or leak path -- No joy. To confirm not test equipment, I positioned Fuel Valve to OFF...and it held pressure. So considering if internal leak in valve from LH to RH side. But tested for air transfer to RH side (tube added to fuselage fitting, ending under water...no bubbles!) -- again No joy. So tomorrow I'll try to isolate (remove hose to engine fuel pump, cap and test that section)...with more soap bubbles. Meanwhile installed all 4 EGT sensors Type K thermocouple (from Garmin G3X sensor kit, Alcor Tempest #86255, which is Garmin #494-70001-00). Reamed holes (pleased already drilled in exhaust tubes) w/ #30 reamer since press fit. Need to finish wiring connectors, add safety wire.