Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 04/11/19

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, April 11, 2019

Transition Training

Transition Training with Mike Seager

Flew commercial to Portland, Oregon, then drove an hour northwest to Vernonia, Oregon. Stayed at Carpenter Guest House B&B (carpentersguesthouse@gmail.com, 541 961 8601). Met Mike Seager for my Transition Training (email rv6cfi@hotmail.com, 503 709 4075) at Vernonia Muni Airport (05S). The week prior, Mike notified me Vans RV-14A would NOT be available (until June 3! ) due to scheduled updates, etc. Discovered the RV-14 (taildragger) instead had been reserved back Feb 1. I quickly received confirmation from Falcon Insurance that the underwriter Global was OK w/ using Vans RV-7A for my training. Mike assured me the 7A flies nearly identical to RV-14A. We flew Thurs & Fri, April 11-12 in morning and early afternoon. Rains and low ceilings made flying over mountains exciting enroute to Scappoose (KSPA) and back. Lots of pattern work at KSPA. I gradually got used to CS prop and high sink rates on approach (vs C172). Abundance of power is understatement -- takeoffs were more like launches! Mike's a great instructor ( 22,500 hrs mostly in RVs). On Saturday, I had time prior to flight home to visit Evergreen Aviation Museum ( about 1.2 hrs south of Portland)...the Spruce Goose is amazing!