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, December 20, 2016

Wings

Misc...tanks, etc (3 hrs )

Leak test LH Wing Fuel Tank, and discovered 1 leak at inboard corner.   None along wing surfaces, including at fuel cap...or any of the fittings I've installed.
I decided to test LH tank now, since I was getting ready to mix ProSeal for installing the RH Wing's Fuel Level Sensor.   So...able to "patch" this leak with extra sealant.  Also applied sealant to several inboard corners on Right tank that looked "iffy" (might as well since going in trash otherwise)
RH tank with level sensor installed.   Added sealant to 6 corner locations, too.
Installed RH Fuel Level Sensor, and checked "up" position. Measured 32 ohms, so matched uninstalled resistance at this end of travel.   Need to flip wing over to confirm other direction.  Note:  I checked prior to final installation with a string tied next to float routed through drain opening...32 to 249 ohms confirmed full travel.   Installed VA261 and Plug.   I need to wait couple days for ProSeal to cure before air tests for both tanks.

Painted RH Landing Light inside area black.

Cleck'od  Flap and Aileron Gap fillers to LH Wing - perfect fit.

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