Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 11/17/16

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, November 17, 2016

QB Wings and QB Fuselage delivery !

Nov 15, 2016

Delivery (finally!) of QB Wings and QB Fuselage ( 1 hr )

After nearly two months of delays, I finally received the QB Wings and QB Fuselage. Yay ! Everything appears to be in good shape, too. I've got many hours of inventory and reviewing instructions ahead. Special thanks to my wife, Nancy and my R/C friend Tom Imhoff with assistance unloading the truck.

The QB wings are now in my garage shop, and the QB Fuselage is in my basement along with the Empennage Aft Fuselage. I'll switch these after I complete the Wing final assembly. It worked well to remove the sliding doors at my basement entrance....and the fuselage is now sitting right where our really old pool table used to be. A few weeks ago, couple guys from Habitat for Humanity picked up the pool table as a donation.

Jim Marshall, delivery truck driver. My right wing is still on the wall.

Nancy and Tom Imhoff.

Wing cradle is borrowed from RV10 builder Terry Moushon. Thanks Terry !

Joystick crossmember (white tube assly) is not drag free.

Joystick crossmember (the white tube assembly in above pic) has considerable drag or friction when moved (pitch direction). Scott at Van's builder support told me it should be virtually free rotating on bearings. He believes assembler's didn't properly shim when installing. Consequently I'll receive replacement nuts and set of shims so I can re-do. Seems critical in order to achieve that great Van's "control feel".