Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 03/13/17

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.

Monday, March 13, 2017

Wings

LH Fuel Tank re-installed ( 1 hr )

During discussion with Gus, Van's Builder Support, we concluded the very slow leak must be due to a "porous" balloon. So I replaced the latest balloon, and 2 hrs later -- NO Change. So apparently all along the leak was from the balloon skin (permeable). Note: this happened with 2 prior balloons on the LH Tank - but not on the RH Tank.

Extra balloon as reference... both stayed fully inflated 2 hrs

I re-installed the fuel tank. It was much easier than I'd imagined. The dimpled holes around the perimeter aligned readily, and the bolt holes also matched up. I'm only about 1/2 done "screwing", but it feels good to be over this hurdle. Since you can't reach approx 50% of the rivets and joints on the QB Wings w/ tanks pre-installed, I needed to be sure there were no leaks.

Note boards under cradles to lift tank to Spar to re-attach