Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 06/20/17

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.

Tuesday, June 20, 2017

Fuselage

Bellcrank Assembly ( 4 hrs )

Built Bellcrank Mount and AutoPilot Pitch Servo Bracket per Sect 36-06 and -07. 1st trimmed bracket, added optional 1.25" dia lightening hole. Deburred holes & edges on both. Machine C'sunk Mount for flush rivets holding 8 nutplates. Primed both. Riveted K1000 nutplates using my "Main Squeeze" - sure works great. Although time to install Pushrods, decided to wait another day for paint curing before I remove masking on Fuse interior (after touch ups yesterday). Jumped to Sect 36-10 to assemble Control Sticks into Control Bases. These are the optional (upgrade) Sticks with Grips & wiring. They're pre-drilled for mounting to base, which is good news. Ready for Steps 4-8 @ Sect 36-10 (match drill and enlarge to enable bolting at joint).