Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 07/03/16

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, July 3, 2016

Empennage

Aft Fuselage ( 5 hrs )

Riveted Rudder Guides into Side Skins w/ specified blind rivets (thin washers critical to withstand loading against nylon blocks).

Inside view after blind rivets

Installed Static Lines - replaced Van's provided with Cleaveland's Upgrade Kit . Bonded in the 2 Static Source Ports using J-B Weld epoxy (needs to cure 4-6 hrs, w/ full strength in 15 hrs) after cleaning surfaces with acetone.

Outside view of Port (one each side)

Routed tubing using 4" tie wraps - loose to later attach fittings to Ports, etc. Moved on to Sect 10-23: Installed UAT Antenna Cable. Sect 10-24: Installed ELT Antenna Cable, Finished details in Sect 10-25 (prior routing done prior Skins added LH side) for Aft Fuselage Harness. And finished details in Sect 10-26 for "Phone" Cable.

I will be calling Van's tech support to determine why wires C1036 and C1037 are each about 6 inches short of bulkhead F01406B. Can't see how I've misrouted, etc. Everything else fits A-OK and is neatly tie wrapped at designated locations, protecting from rubbing on edges, etc.