Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 08/16/17

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, August 16, 2017

Finish Kit

Rear Window drilling, etc ( 5 hrs )

Completed Step 4 in Sect 38-03 by tapping for 6-32 screws in Roll Bar. First drilled #36 holes through plexiglass and Roll Bar. Vans instructs to tap next, but I removed the plexiglass (after trying one). Since plexiglass gets drilled w/ larger #27 drill immediately as clearance hole, seems risky to tap the plexiglass. Had no trouble aligning the tap without plexiglass. Used Boelube on tap. Drilled remaining holes w/ #36 bit (dulled for plastic) - and deburred/chamfered each hole at top and bottom (advice on VAF forums to reduce cracking risk). Kept plexiglass warm with halogen lights, a few degrees above 83 deg shop temp. Then proceeded with Step 8 final drill w/ #27 bit (screw clearance holes). No cracks. Still have about 24 holes to final drill...then machine countersink for flat head screws or dimpled skins.

tapping w/o plexiglass window

close up of tapped hole on Roll Bar

warming plexiglass during final drilling to #27 size

example hole chamfered. Next add
machine countersink for flat head screw