Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 03/20/16

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.

Sunday, March 20, 2016

Empennage

Horiz Stab (2.0 hrs)

Sect 8-11, Step 4:
Riveted rib and spar assembly into skins - starting with Nose Ribs to Front Spar. Used LP4-3 blind rivets. Added extensions to blind rivet tool: simply pulled off the grey handle grips and slid on ~14" tubes made from old aluminum broom handle. Added some duct tape (of course !) to "soften" the ends. So much easier. From barely able to squeeze handles inside skins to super easy access and leverage. Only wish I'd done this for first 3 rivets...9 others were quick and easy. When done really simple to put grips back on, too.

3 blind rivets per Nose Ribs...difficult to get hands around grips to sufficiently squeeze...until extensions added.

Next Sect 8-12, installing flush rivets. 4 different lengths--- so must follow guide on page 8-13. Began along front spar from center working outward. Kinda challenging to hold bucking bar inside skins -- but getting them done one by one. This will take awhile.

Self portrait in skins. Note flush rivets horizontally along spar. It's a start!