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.

Friday, March 23, 2018

Firewall Forward Kit

Cowl Baffles ( 3 hrs )

Cut 6 lengths of 1" dia. PVC pipe to exactly 2.125" per "Simulating the Propeller for Fitting the Cowl" (re: Vans website at Construction FAQs).  Attached Spinner Backplate with 6 std hardware 1/2-20 x 3" bolts. Ready to start fitting Cowl in place per Sect 45 in Finish Kit.   Decided instead to do Sect 47 Cowl Baffles - seemed ready to do more deburring and riveting.  Completed Sect 47-02, Steps 1-8 Cylinder Baffles with addition of doublers.
spacers at 2 1/8" simulate actual CS Prop Hub

first parts of Cowl Baffle riveted...
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