Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 06/03/19

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.

Monday, June 3, 2019

Shop Set Up

Fuselage moved to Hangar

Hired Dependable Towing to move Fuselage from home shop to hangar at 3MY (Mt Hawley) with a "rollback" flatbed. They did a great job, with lots of care for my "baby". Cost $180 for 2 hrs. Railing on this truck was 1/2" higher than one I measured, so needed boards under wheels to clear Wheel Pant brackets. But rails were expected 1.5" wider than outside wheel to wheel...so just enough clearance. Next mission: rent U-Haul to move Wings, Tail, tools and benches.

First time out of garage shop in daylight (the airplane, not me!)

Rollback in process winching up the incline (paused -- as I was
off ramp to take pic). When moving up ramp, I steered
w/ towbar since close fit between rails.

Ready to go. I used bolts (sheathed in plastic---from original
QB delivery) in Wing Spars as anchor points on LH & RH side.
We took it easy at 45 mph, but I did secure any loose wiring
at Wing Roots, tail area. Seemed very stable w/o any bounce.

Tah Dah ! Unloading was quicker.
I steered with towbar as crew let out the winch.

Hooked up engine dryer to insure no moisture inside engine.