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, January 30, 2018

Engine

Engine Mounted ( 4 hrs )

Completed Sect 43-05 & -06 for fluid fittings, sensors on rear of engine. (did need to go to local store to purchase 13/16 deep socket, and 1" socket)  Added the silicone hose to PMAG for the MAP connection.  Mounted to firewall - carefully following instructions at 43-08 to insure "soft" vs "hard" durometer Dynafocal mounts were correctly positioned on top vs bottom (reversed).  Contacted Vans tech support, and Eric Rushing confirmed the "EA Dyna VI - Std"  are the correct rubber mounts, even though Vans instructions call out different part numbers.  Using the Harbor Freight engine hoist worked out really well.  Eric mentioned typically builders need a couple helpers to wrangle the engine into the mount locations.  I started with top 2 mounts, aud used hoist to re-position engine until bottom mounts aligned.  I don't need the sawhorse holding up aft fuselage -- plenty of noseweight !   I've been told engine needs to compress rubber mounts up to 2 months before aligning cowling,...so let the compression begin!


 

glad able to add fluid fittings prior to mounting
since some would be challenging to do after
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