Steevo's RV14a Build Log: 06/14/19

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.

Friday, June 14, 2019

Finish Kit (and others...for Final Assembly)

Wing Root Covers ( 5 hrs )

Installed Wing Root Covers top and bottom- they fit well. Discovered QB Wings were missing 3 dimples at front of Top Cover structure. So I improvised a long reach to use my CS bit on those adjacent to Fuselage side skins (see pic below). Bottom Covers require extra bending around LE into final shape ( I pre-bent per instructions in 2017). Both the LH and RH Top Covers required minor trimming to maintain correct and uniform gap to Fuse skin. Otherwise, discovered RH Landing light doesn't work (LH is A-OK). I also temporarily connected Nav Lights one at a time...and determined LH Nav light won't come on, but RH Nav light trips Nav CB ! Stein Air's Christer helped confirm GAD 27 is working correctly for Landing Lights - so I need to examine other connectors. DRAT !

Extensions with CB at end to correct for missing CS on supports at
front of Top Cover. Section 41-05(?) is shown, with note on dwg where
Vans missed dimples on QB Wings

View underneath LH Wing at connection to Fuse.
Shows torque seal on Wing Bolts/Nuts. Top Cover
is on, getting ready to install Bottom Cover