Steevo's RV14a Build Log: Firewall Forward Kit

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, January 10, 2018

Firewall Forward Kit

Prep for FF Kit / some Pushrods from Finish Kit ( 2 hrs )

Minimal shop time Jan 8 - 10 while working phones and emails with Vans, Stein Air, Aircraft Specialty, and Flightline Interiors. Vans sending a few items missing/wrong in FF Kit (from 8 pages, only a few). Working with Steve at Aircraft Specialty for hose upgrades: planning to replace FF00014 hose with hose specifically made for the single P-Mag on my Lycoming IO-390 for the manifold air pressure sensor (from engine to both sensor and P-Mag). Very helpful and high quality components (I installed their alum tubing fuel lines, hoses inside fuselage last year). Working with Nick Millard at Stein Air to finalize Panel design. They're sending bunch of components now (Auto Pilot Servos, ELT, etc) that I can install while waiting engine delivery. Over several months (off and on) from concept to final design, Nick has been very helpful getting the Panel just right. I've also launched Seat and interior development with Abby at Flightline Interiors. Been a pleasure to get started, leveraging her experience. Only shop work was building 2 Flap Pushrods per Sect 41-02, Steps 1-5, and 2 Stick to Torq Tube Pushrods per Sect 41-06, step 1.