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, September 21, 2016

Empennage

Empennage Fairings ( 0.5 hrs )

Re-mounted the Horiz Stab, Vertical Stab, Elevators, and Rudder (also Empennage Gap Covers) today to examine fitup...and to take some pics.   I'm considering some blending between Elevator Tips and HS Tips, as well as between Rudder and Vert Stab.   They're really good, but now that they're installed, I can see some variations between front to back.   Won't help plane fly any better, just cosmetic.   Maybe later during Finish Kit, etc.     I do plan to "smooth" between Horiz Stab Tip and HS Skin, but the initial fit is near perfect.    

Hooray !  Essentially done with Empennage Kit. (expecting QB Wings and QB Fuselage delivery in couple weeks)










From Jan 1, 2016...Empennage Kit "completed" Sept 2016.
A long way to go...but closer !


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