Steevo's RV14a Build Log: Avionics

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, April 16, 2019

Avionics

Power to Instrument Panel ( 2 hrs )

I had a 2 week delay powering up my panel when I discovered a critical wire running power from Master Relay (Battery Contactor Relay) to Main Bus was missing. I'd connected everything per Vans instructions, and connected everything from Stein Air for my panel & related. My mistake was not looking at overall electrical schematic. Stein Air picked worst timing for me to move to new offices, then another week at Sun n Fun. Eventually I connected (pun intended!) with Josh at Stein Air, and we quickly diagnosed I needed a 4.5 ft 8AWG wire from Master Relay on firewall to the Aviation Bus Bar (which connects to Main Bus at CB panel). Josh provided the wire with appropriate ring terminals. I told him they should provide notes on schematic identifying what Stein Air was not intending to provide. My mistake was assuming I had "everything" needed to complete the installation. Now it seems obvious! I ordered from Aircraft Spruce a 2 pc Firewall Shield (#61-275 ) and Silicone Grommet size 5/16 (#11-13460 ). I didn't want to re-do the firewall penetration, & here, but instead add specific hole for this 8 ga wire. So NOW I have full power with 1st time I've powered up G3X, G5, GTR 200 Radio, and GMC307 autopilot. Lots of tuning to do, and missing connections to most lights (wings, tail, canopy), ADHRS, etc.