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.

Saturday, August 18, 2018

Finish Kit

Lower Intersection Fairing ( 4 hrs )

Machine C'sunk Lower Intersection Fairings at ten holes per Step 1 at 46A-28.  Sanded Wheel Fairing surface about 1.5" outside Lower Fairing to prep for epoxy/micro balloons fillet.   Applied vinyl tape to edge each Lower Fairing, then slopped on thick mix creating fillet.  Smoothed as much as practical to reduce sanding later.  When partially cured to "rubbery" stage, cut slots along Fore/Aft split of Wheel Fairing.   I used micro-balloons to make sanding easier, but still will be a lot of sanding.
Sanded w/ 80 grit where mix will be applied
Vinyl tape covers edge -- to sand down to, 
but not through.   I decided to c'sink screw 
heads prior adding fillet, to make sanding easier
 w/o screws above surface.


prior to cutting slots where Wheel Fairing separates
 
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