Steevo's RV14a Build Log: Finish 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.

Thursday, June 14, 2018

Finish Kit

Oil Door and Cowl Pin Covers ( 5 hrs )

Started installation of Oil Door. Filled four #40 holes Vans provided for their simple hinge with flush rivets ground/sanded smooth. Drilled & cleco'd hinge onto Top Cowl. Positioned Door, then drilled for 4 rivets. Machine C'sunk fiberglass on Top Cowl, and alum Door. Positioned latch and drilled 4 mounting holes. Final 0.87" dia hole for 'push button' clearance pending. Single latch seems sufficient. Sure like how well this operates. Final fitted Cowl Pin Covers. Protected ends of hinges from invasion of epoxy. Applied 4 layers of medium fiberglass -- prepping these 4 on a table covered with wax paper was easy, instead of applying a layer at a time. Received pics of Stein Air panel build progress. Expecting delivery in late June.