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, March 30, 2017

Wings

RH Tip and Lens  ( 4 hrs )

Filled "slot" at aft end of RH Tip (reference earlier recent posts) with epoxy mixed with microlight.  note: previously reinforced inside with cloth/resin anticipating this gap once I cut off 1/4".  I'm sure glad I noticed this on RH Tip, since LH Tip was A-OK at aft end.  Finally, it was time to cut the polycarbonate Lens...which ended up being less traumatic than anticipated.  To prepare, I used a portable electric heater to warm the part up (warm to the touch), since garage was only 63 deg.  Using a dremel with fiber cut off wheel worked well - essentially the material "melts" - there was minimal dust to cut apart the LH/RH thermoformed shell.  I kept the heater on as I trimmed the LH Lens.  Per Van's Step 3, I trimmed front and outbound ends to establish initial fit, then marked and trimmed off perimeter.  Using a small drum sander in dremel allowed me to quickly trim to a line.   I'll hand sand tomorrow to get final fit...then Repeat for RH Lens.   Note:  Scrap pieces allowed me to practice with plastic drills and countersink (Aircraft Tool Supply Zero Flute Countersink 3/32-1/4").   Reference VAF for excellent tips on cutting polycarbonate.
 
 

filled "slot" aft end  RH Tip - sure glad I reinforced inside 1st
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