Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 01/11/17

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 11, 2017

Wings

Pushrods Installed ( 3 hrs )

Sect 23-09: Installed Pushrods between Torq Tubes and Bellcranks for both wings. (I discovered Vans failed to provide W-730 template used to align bellcranks in neutral position. When I contacted them, they emailed a dimensioned drawing (and sent the actual one in the mail I plan to use to confirm alignment). I determined only 1 dimension was critical and some of the shapes were unnecessary - so making the template was relatively easy vs the all the dimensions w/o tolerances shown to .001".... Their engrg dwgs need to be properly dimensioned !

I left fasteners loose to allow final adjustments. Really like having the Washer Wrenches from Cleaveland Tools...one is shown in pic at inboard rib area near Torq Tube. These make slipping in small washers much easier - with so much less cussing.

RH Wing...pushrod connected

Very pleased with the silky smooth operation of the control linkages - extra time spent getting the brass bushing fit just right at Bellcranks seems to be paying off.

LH Wing...note fastener not tighted...yet.

RH Wing Bellcrank w/ W730 template holding neutral position

Autopilot support bracket installed...pending Servo install.

LH Wing Bellcrank.. Loose nuts until final adjustments.