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.

Wednesday, May 1, 2019

Engine

Engine Dehumidifier /Dryer  ( 7 hrs )

Built Engine Dryer using recommendations per Bill Lane (local builder of RV 7) and several example posts in VAF.  This will minimize risk of corrosion inside engine if not run weekly (moisture accumulates from combustion).  Will connect the dry air output at Dipstick, with return air captured via Breather.   Uses aquarium pump (must be in air tight container itself with only air from Breather connected), to move air through about 2 quarts of desiccant.  I'll use white desiccant (lower cost) followed by small container of blue desiccant (color changes when saturated).  Small engine fuel filter insures clean air returned to dipstick.  I've also been working on 2 Wing Jacks, using 3 Ton hyd rams from Harbor Freight (also per examples in VAF)...pics soon.
Tool box services as container.  Original plug Lycoming ships
 engine with used to insert dry air into engine. Return air from
 Breather.  (small red caps keep clean until using)

Aquarium air pump is in air tight container so only return air from
engine is cycled.  Desiccant container also must be air tight.  Blue
 desiccant in "inline desiccant" vessel to provide indicator when
primary "white" desiccant is saturated.  Small filter just
prior to exit to engine insure "clean" air.

Lots of latex tubing (vinyl will get stiff in colder weather).  Pump
 has 2 outlets, so combined via T fitting.   Created distribution
 box for air inside desiccant container using small
plastic box (or drill alum tube, etc)