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 25, 2018

Empennage

Empennage Fairing ( 4 hrs )

Completed Steps 1-6 in Sect 12-11:  Transferred hole centerlines to Fairing, drilled #40, then enlarged with #27 drill.  Process worked very well for the opaque fiberglass Fairing.  Machine C'sunk all holes in Fairing for #6 screws.  Dimpled aft hole in Gap Covers (F14111 L & R ).  Removed Vert Stab so I could drill for nutplates while on bench.  Note:  received Registration for plane from FAA...it's officially N3714R  now ! (quicker than expected - only took couple weeks)
selfie showing centerline marks (where to drill)
RH side - done w/ #40, partially done enlarging
 to #27 with 1/8" cleocs


LH side...pending #27 final hole sizing
Vert Stab on bench, drilling for nutplate rivets
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