Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 11/08/18

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, November 8, 2018

Avionics

Ground Plate and GEA24 J242 ( 3 hrs )

Torqued 5/16" bolts (one brass, other SS) attaching ground plate/"forest of tabs" to inside of firewall. Nancy helped wrench from outside while I crammed myself under dash to tighten from inside firewall. Installed clamp to guide harness. Laced 3 or 4 wires to each other near terminals for better vibration support. Also installed connector GEA24 J242 (temperature sensors) to RH subpanel. Slipped nylon sleeve protection on wires, routing odd # sensors through RH firewall hole ( EGT1 & 3, CHT1 & 3) and even # sensors through LH firewall hole (EGT2 & 4, CHT2 & 4). No pics yet...

ground plate bolted ton inside firewall.

Highlighted lacing of wire into groups ( 3 or 4 tied together)

Outside firewall: part #P25 (battery negative cable) now
anchored directly to brass bolt, vs 6 inches separately to left.
Battery box is just below.