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, May 29, 2018

Finish Kit

Top and Bottom Cowl  ( 6 hrs )

Inserted Cowl Hinge Pins (horiz upper hinge halves) per Sect 45-14 Step 1-10. Cut clearances for Hinge Pins on LH and RH sides  - but will install Cowl Pin Covers soon instead of finishing for tab mounting. Marked and drilled holes for upper hinge pins on Top Cowl.  Re-installed -- alignment still very good, so match drilled #40 holes per Steps11 at 45-15.   Drilled holes each side Spinner per 45-16, then riveted on 4 nutplates per Steps 1-4 at 45-17.   Used Cowl Pin Cover templates to mark  cut-outs on each side.
marked & drilled Top Cowl  upper hinge

Drilled & cleco'd...

Top Cowl with hinges attached (clecos).

Bottom Cowl w/ hinges attached.  2 holes each side spinner, too

nutplates beside spinner on Bottom Cowl

LH template used to mark for cutout -
Cowl Pin Covers
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