Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 06/16/16

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.

Thursday, June 16, 2016

Empennage

Aft Fuselage ( 3 hrs)

Sect 10-14; routed Aft Fuselage Harness & Phone Cable along F01486A-L J-Stiffener. Challenging to insure correct cable leads are routed appropriately, per diagrams in 10-25 and 10-26.

Need helper to position RH Skin onto assembly, so worked ahead on 10-15 Aft Bottom Skin: Used band-saw to remove extra material both sides, "sanding" flush to line with belt sander. Then deburred all edges & holes, drilled larger diameter holes, and finally dimpled #40 holes. Ready to prime and rivet next.

Trimmed pieces (scrap). Cleco'd rearmost bulkhead as test fit...A-OK.