Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 03/21/19

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.

Thursday, March 21, 2019

Firewall Forward Kit

Firesleeve ( 2 hrs )

Per Sect 51-07, Steps 1-3 added firesleeve to wire & cable bundle at firewall pass-through (FF00001 Firewall Penetration Fitting). Called Vans Prod Support - and Mitch Lock answered, President of Vans Aircraft. He was filling in! I told him my bundles were so tight in opening, I didn't feel I could insert the rubber firesleeve - especially the RH one. He described how he encountered same issue, and used "anti-short bushings" instead when he built his RV14a. Key is isolation of wires from metal edges front and back. I ordered some 1" dia size (no local stores carry that size). I inserted firesleeve in LH hole...with great effort, taking over an hour to push in. I plan to use the bushings on RH side. Both will be filled with hi-temp RTV, then wrapped with second layer of firesleeve.

Inside view showing success pushing firesleeve 1/4" past edge

Engine side. Will fill with hi-temp RTV, then add
another layer of firesleeve.