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.

Wednesday, January 25, 2017

Wings

RH Wing Bottom Skin  ( 4 hrs )

Since my wife Nancy (aka Rosie the Riveter) wasn't available, I started the RH Wing Bottom Skin.  Deburred,  then rolled edges.  Cleco'd to Wing, being careful to align Ribs (some needed persuasion to line up holes ).  Drilled about 50% of the #40 (3/32")  holes including match drilling into the J-stiffener.
I prefer to remove entire plastic protective sheets.
Later, Nancy joined me to help rivet the LH Wing Bottom Skin...along the Rear Spar.  I reach "way up" holding the bucking bar inside the Wing while pulling the skin open at forward edge. Challenging to align properly on rivet's shop end and hold position while Nancy lines up and pulls the trigger.   About 3-4 seconds, and we're done.  Takes teamwork and good communication.  We're improving...we did about 20 rivets in 45 minutes (spending most of the time confirming correct set on each rivet).  Pretty slow generally, but far better than our 1st four in 30 minutes!  Ran out of time - we quit for dinner.
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