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.

Tuesday, December 18, 2018

Avionics

OAT wiring in Wing, GA 35 GPS antenna ( 3 hrs )

Fabricated 3 alum "brackets" to hold SB437-4's to guide/support OAT wire in LH Wing (from Wing root to 1st Access panel)  -- for when Wing assembled to Fuse.   Positioned Garmin GA 35 GPS WAAS Antenna on top Fuselage behind rear window.  Fabricated alum doubler referencing couple other RV14a builder logs about 1" larger than antenna.  Eric Rushing at Vans Prod Support confirmed their demo RV14's and RV10 did NOT use a doubler (but mounted close to stringer).   Reason I checked with Vans was Garmin installation recommends doubler w/  12 - 16 rivets.  Prior to mounting doubler removed primer on inside Fuse skin for best ground contact (Garmin instructions for G3X/GA 35 antenna).  Note: GA 35 antenna is Serial No. 144,789.  P/n 013-00235-00
single rivet w/ epoxy located/mounted Snap Bushing supports.
 When Wing mounted to Fuse, will route OAT  wire via these 3

Doubler prepped.   After pic, changed to use lock nuts
instead of these nutplates shown

Used doubler to match drill Fuse skin
deburred, ready to mount antenna


prior to actually tightening screws.

prior removal primer for doubler grounding

Used acetone to remove primer for better grounding
TNC connector (not BNC) ready for coax cable.
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