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.

Friday, December 7, 2018

Avionics

OAT wire routed, etc ( 3 hrs )

Routed OAT (outside air temp probe) from backside of G3X Touch display (GDU460) to center tunnel.  Required removal of 2 SB's at spar -- aarrrgghhh! (sensor too large to pass through), so split and re-installed.  Routed under LH seat area through ribs, then out large SB at fuselage side.  Next, fabricate several alum brackets to hold SBs supporting OAT wire.   Also routed "phone cable" ELT wire, and ADS-B/transponder RG400 coax antenna cable forward, then behind CB panel.  Connected to ELT model E-04 cockpit remote on IP (per Sect 53-02)m and to GTX 45R xpr.   Loosely routed LH and RH Common Fuse Harness, connecting for 1st time to IP harnesses.  Final positioning and securing tbd....
Lower left SB now has OAT wire passing from IP

OAT wiring under LH seat.  Next: add brackets w/ SB's next

Fuselage exit has large SB so sensor passes easily

LH Common Harness connected. 
OAT (white) and Static air line similar path, all
loosely arranged for now
RH Common Harness connected. 
ELT, and Transponder cables similar path,
loosely arranged for now


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