Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 09/01/18

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.

Saturday, September 1, 2018

Empennage

Empennage Fairing ( 2 hrs )

Mixed epoxy/flox and filled pinholes on Emp Fairing (also some on 4 Instersection Fairings). Later, after cured 6 hrs, sanded smooth all 4 Intersection Fairings and Empennage Fairing. Began exploring where and how to mount various units supporting Garmin G3X system: GTX-45 ( remote transponder w/ ADS-B in/out), GEA24 (engine monitor), GD-40 (CO detection), GPS20A (remote WAAS GPS), and GAD27 (intergrated controller). Referenced couple other RV14 builder logs, and Layout provided by Stein Air.

flox mix added to fill pinholes ( prior sand smooth... again)

unpacking Avionics...

Empennage

Empennage Fairing ( 3 hrs )

Completed sanding high spots and contoured at HS leading edge. Removed Fairing ( Yay ! - some prying required, but did come off...whew...) to sand edges. Smoothed edges all around using 120 grit. Removed excess flox underneath using dremel. Ref Step 5 at 12-13. Pleased with fit when re-attached. No gaps ! Got a lot of pinholes opened via removed layer of filler/paint...so will tackle those next.

underside w/ molded flox shown

prior sanding flox on edges & contouring

re-installed after sanding edges

no gaps

Add caption