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.

Monday, April 2, 2018

Firewall Forward Kit

Installed Cowl Baffles ( 4 hrs )

Decided to complete connection of MAP lines prior to completing the cowl baffles - in case any interference.  Installed AN823-4 Steel 45 deg Elbow (replaced AN816-4D straight fitting) per Aircraft Speciality design for connection of Single PMAG manifold air pressure hoses.  Tightened flare fitting at elbow, and applied Herbie Clamp to silicone hose at other end. [ ref Jan 26, 2018 log "Map Hose Assembly ]   Installed Left and Right Aft Baffles to engine per Sect 47-07, Steps 2-4.  No trimming of baffles needed - fit to engine was good first pass.  And, didn't need to remove Oil Filler Tube.  Assembled Left and Right Forward Baffles per 47-13 per Step 1.  First riveted CB-00011 to Left Fwd Baffle per Step 4 at 47-12 (initially not sure possible to assemble onto engine w/ this part attached, but riveting after looked almost impossible too).  I had to trim CB-00011 to fit engine case so all bolt holes would align.  This gave me practise getting the assl'y on and off a few times - so I got better at twisting and turning it around Prop Governor.  Aaarrrgggh !
Completed MAP lines between engine, sensor, and PMAG







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