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.

Tuesday, October 30, 2018

Avionics

Circuit Breaker re-visited and Canopy Release ( 3 hrs )

Last week discovered Cabin Lights CB didn't have a wire connected.  Stein Air quickly made appropriate wire w/ terminal & labels, plus provided lacing material and a "Menda Harness Wire Threader" tool (so I could thread wire through already completed laced harnesses) which I rec'd Monday.  So, simply removed CB panel, inserted wiring all the way back to LH side along with other lighting wires (to connect to LED strip under glare shield).   Also used unibit to enlarge hole in IP to 0.50".   Installed SB500-06 in IP so canopy release handle slides through plastic bushing.   I also rec'd order from Stein Air for "forest of tabs" ground plate, faston connectors, plastic protection sleeve.  Next task is to add to inside of firewall.
snap bushing installed for canopy release handle
received parts to install grounding plate on firewall
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