Steevo's RV14a Build Log: Avionics & Finish Kit

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.

Saturday, June 1, 2019

Avionics & Finish Kit

Rear Window and Joysticks ( 6 hrs )

Completed switch of Black wire in Pin 1 with Orange wire in Pin 2 (Orange is now Pin 1, Black now Pin 2) on LH Joystick Tosten grip. Now the pitch trim works in correct direction, equal to RH Joystick Tosten grip. [ seems out of synch revisions to Common Fuse Harness and Tosten grips are culprit - or Stein Air just plain messed up LH harness assembly ] And confirmed Canopy Warning works while stationary, so tightened micro-switch position. Final test will confirm audible warning starts above 1700 RPM. (...once engine is running). [ note: Vans has error in Read Me file: file name that appears on G3X screen when uploaded is "RV-14 g3xT options config rev1" NOT the file in their instructions "Canopy Warning R2.gca. Took several emails & calls to Van's builder support before they finally noted that is how Garmin shows the Canopy Warning file. Completed jumper wire (yellow) from Pin 9 in LH Joystick (actually mating connector in Common Fuse Harness) to Pin 9 in RH Joystick - so now AP/CWS switch works on LH Joystick/grip. [ this was option proposed by Stein Air, since essentially the original wire takes same route, but very circuitous - and huge challenge to determine where the fault was...) Finally, the Rear Window is installed. Nancy climbed into baggage area so she could assemble the washers and nuts on inside while I added screws from outside. Messy job getting sealant into gap between Aft Fuse and Window, but got 'er done. Thanks Nancy! Tip: remove inside plastic covering on Rear Window prior to installing. The fore/aft brace to Rollbar is close to window, making removal difficult. Sect 38-04 Steps 5-9 instructions are good, but don't mention that detail. Seems obvious after installing of course!