Steevo's RV14a Build Log: Finish Kit

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.

Tuesday, December 26, 2017

Finish Kit

Nose Wheel Installed ( 5 hrs )

Installed Nose Fork and Nose Wheel/Tire assembly per Sect 40A-07 Steps 1-7. Used engine hoist to lift fuselage higher to get supports underneath so clearance for mounting fork. Tightened large 1 3/4" nut on Spindle , compressing belleville washers - until met side pull of 26 lb specified. Glad I purchased socket recently at $13, so didn't mess up nut with channel locks, etc). Didn't need a breaker bar or long handle, since actual torque was moderate. I did need to drill new #30 size holes at 90 deg to original for cotter pin to get the right position. As the belleville washers are compressed by the nut, rotating the nut just a few degrees made a large difference in side pull. Next, installed Matco wheel and axle - and torqued through bolt (this set up avoids Van's version with compromise between tight and too tight for tapered roller bearing). Then attached Main Gear Leg Axles per Step 1 at Sect 40A-08. The Brake Torque Plate was confusing to correctly identify correct 4 of 8 holes, but got it done too. Next: check toe-in or toe-out...maybe ready to mount Main tires.