Steevo's RV14a Build Log: Finish Kit (and others for Final Assembly)

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, June 21, 2019

Finish Kit (and others for Final Assembly)

Pitot/Static Leak test and ADAHARS calibration ( 4 hrs )

Fixed 1 tube connection in Aft Fuse at T connector from LH Static Port. Required removal of Baggage Area Bulkhead panel...which means I had to stuff my 6'4" body into the baggage area. Didn't forget to put sawhorse under tail of plane. My wife arrived to insure I could get back out, and helped with leak test. She lightly pushed on syringe to pressurize Static system, while I sprayed soap bubbles on connections. First 2 joints...nothing, then 3rd produced lots of action. I simply disconnected and re-inserted tube. When we checked, pleasantly surprised NO LEAK...with several inches of vacuum applied and no movement over several minutes. Didn't need to check any further at opposite side port. Repeated for Pitot and AOA lines with Pitot taped (all holes). No leaks ! Notified Avionics shop ready for Pitot/Static Test, and Transponder Test too. Next, reviewed AP Config and set up for everything feasible prior to flying (and prior full ADAHARS calibration). Determined Pitch Servo Motor (GSA 28) needed to be set Reversed, but Roll remained Normal mode. Then Eric at Vans builder support confirmed flight level attitude equals cockpit longerons level -- so I started ADAHARS calibration for G3X Touch Installation Manual ( GDU 460). Results show 8.2 deg Pitch Tilt, and 1.7 deg Roll Tilt. I've emailed Garmin Prod Support to confirm this is valid since magnetometer is mounted in Wing...with dihedral, and angle of mount/Wing.

Kinda tight getting into position to check Static air
line connections...but I survived.
Note the sawhorse under tail !

Simple set up for leak test. Syringe works well to
apply light vacuum or pressure. Disconnected
from sensors so no rick. Red food coloring
in water is easy to see. I simply taped
tubing to fuselage.