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.

Monday, June 10, 2019

Finish Kit (and others...for Final Assembly)

Wings Attached ( 4 hrs )

Bolted on Wings. Nancy and friend (wants to remain anonymous) helped align Wings on two padded sawhorses. Then moved into Fuselage connection gently ( I laid on floor under Wing to lift and guide into position). Inserted both 3/8" tapered drift pins. Each large bolt went in as expected -- needing rubber mallet to drive the "close tolerance" bolts through. Clamping thin skins on outside Fuselage spar is essential as bolt passes (threads will catch and spread "skin"). Rear attachment point aligned easily too. Impressive how well everything aligned. Out of curiosity, measured diagonally from Wing tip to center of Aft Fuselage - within less than 1/16" on each side. So as manufactured holes were perfect (good news, since couldn't have changed regardless. Earlier Vans kit designs required positioning/aligning Wings prior to match drilling rear attachment point. RV14a is already done!) Note: process to install Wings was less than 1 hr on each side. Remainder of time spent on other details.