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, November 29, 2017

Finish Kit

Seat Backs and Miscellanea ( 4 hrs )

Completed Seat Backs with remaining rivets along LH and RH sides, then Sect 39-06 & -07 for Hinge Pins.   Since I'll probably leave off Seat Back Braces due to using only rearmost position (they're not engaged), I didn't add the safety wire retentions for the Hinge Pins.  But they fit perfectly and work really well.   Also made the bottom Hinge Pins ~ 1/4" longer to allow long taper for easier insertion.  Overall, the Seat Backs fit and look great.  I started Sect 42, called "Miscellanea" - which are the removable interior covers.  Deburred Seat Ramp Cover, and LH & RH Control Column Covers.  Attached the few nutplates (buffed, cleaned and primed just at nutplates for now - so I could install.  Planning major prime and painting session later )
Seat backs fit perfectly between black UHMW
blocks on crossbar
in rearmost position, braces are not used...


alternate brace positions if seat moved to
middle and forward positions

tip forward to access baggage area

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