Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 05/28/19

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.

Tuesday, May 28, 2019

Avionics

Instrument Color Markings ( 3 hrs )

Surprised limited info in Lycoming manuals, or via Vans, or VAF postings to recommend green, yellow and red color markings on G3X instrumentation. So I gathered from those resources as much as possible, consulted with local experts Terry Moushon (Tech Counseler and builder RV10) and Bill Lane (RV 7 builder). Lycoming test results for my engine were helpful (showing max and min Limits on several parameters). Included pics below from powerpoint I created. Setting up on G3X is almost fun. I can refine these after first flights...but seem good starting point.

Camera doesn't focus well on display....
W/o Wings attached, don't have fuel tank senders connected, etc.

Avionics and Finish Kit

Canopy Warning & G3X config ( 3 hrs )

Received 24"x 36" cargo net w/ 2"x 2" mesh, 4mm bungee cord. Came with 10 plastic hooks, but only using 5 (nice to have spares). Good quality & seems good solution....for about $21 via Amazon. Tah Dah ! I've been communicating several times with Vans builder support about the Canopy Warning file for the G3X. Although followed Vans G3X Touch Canopy Warning Read Me file explicitly, I couldn't get my G3X to show the correct file after upload. Vans finally clarified the Read Me file is wrong on step 11, page 2. The G3X will display a file "RV14 G3XT options Config Rev 1" -- NOT the file "Canopy Warning R2.gca". So...mine was working all along! Otherwise trying to resolve issues with LH Joystick AP/CWS switch and Pitch Trim switch (RH is perfect!). Still consulting with Josh at Stein Air and Kevin at Tosten prod support. At least some other Config issues have been resolved.

Added cargo net to hold loose small items

This is correct file for Canopy Warning upload to G3X.

Need to fix LH Joystick issues...

Getting more comfortable with set up via Config "folders"