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.

Monday, December 3, 2018

Avionics

EarthX battery warning via GAD27 ( 2 hrs )

Will soon be installing EarthX battery, model EXT680.  This LiFePO4 battery includes a BMS (battery mgmt sys) w/ LED battery fault light indicator to alert you to cell health and state of charge.  I'm wiring this warning into my G3X display via Garmin's GAD27 unit.  Added wire from Pin #13 in the J243 connector on the GAD27 to use the Discrete #5 function (programmable alert).  Stein Air provided pre-pinned brown/blu stripe wire.  I opened the 50 pin connector, inserted new pin into #13, routed in wire bundle to center, then forward to RH firewall opening along with MAP sensor wire.  Will connect once battery delivered.  [Note:  BMS includes over discharge protection, over charge protection, short circuit protection, excessive cranking protection (temperature sensing) in addition to integrated cell balancing technology] 
connector prior to
adding wire
partially disassembled. 

Re-assembled and re-installed onto GAD27. 
Whole process was easier than I'd anticipated
Ta-Dah !   wire for Discrete #5 now
ready to connect to EarthX at BMS



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