Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 08/29/18

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.

Wednesday, August 29, 2018

Empennage

Empennage Fairings ( 4 hrs )

Per Sect 12-13, final trimmed Fairing edges to within 9mm of holes. Covered Fuse, HS, and VS contact areas with cellophane packing tape (then applied auto wax for good measure). Mixed epoxy/flox to smooth, slight sag mix then applied to underside Fairing in marked areas. Tried not to smear all over VS as I positioned onto Fuse/HS/VS. Inserted 27 screws followed by major clean up. Several hours later, I began sanding to eliminate slight waviness and taper toward edge. Lots of sanding to do next. (I'm praying the Fairing comes off, but gonna wait until more rough sanding done)

trimmed edges, re-installed

clear tape, then car wax applied as extra release

Underside sanded where flox will be attaching

after clean up, starting to cure.

later, after cure, began to sand. Shows how
waviness is being eliminated. Will have consistent
edge contacting alum, with no gaps.