Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 08/23/18

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, August 23, 2018

Finish Kit

Riveted FF00003B to -3A per Step 18 at 46A-30 (done with Sect 46A). Mounted to Bottom Cowl - great fit. Used closed cell foam from Garmin avionics packaging to create Inlet Ramp/Prop Gov Foam Seal. Vans is correct that a bandsaw works well for trimming outline per template provided. Bonded into Top Cowl with hi-temp RTV per Sect 47-30, Steps 1-6. Re-installed Prop Gov bracket assembly per Sect 43-07 [ ref: 9/64" allen wrench]. Next: installation of Empennage Fairing per Sect 12-10 to 12-13 (completed Emp Kit back in Sept 2016 - but Emp Fairing is not supplied until Finish Kit...combined with other fiberglass parts).

-3B riveted.

Can't install Bottom Cowl w/o extra long slot
...so Closeout gets installed normally
AFTER Cowl is on Fuselage

foam cut to template via bandsaw

Foam seals against Prop Gov, vs baffles on grey
Inlet Ramp. bonded with hi-temp RTV.
extra insures sealed at forward edge

re-installed Prop Gov bracket for control cable