JVL’s RV-14: Empennage, Vertical Stabilizer (Part 4)

This blog was created to memorialize the building process of my Van's Aircraft RV-14 and to satisfy the requirements for certification in the Experimental Amateur Built Aircraft category. It will also serve as a central location for ME to reference in the future on processes and techniques I used during the build. Additionally, it will allow my family, friends, and other interested builders the opportunity to follow along during my build…..and might be helpful to someone along the way.

Saturday, February 18, 2017

Empennage, Vertical Stabilizer (Part 4)

I started today by final drilling the three Rudder Hinge Brackets and all the Rear Spar/Spar Doubler holes. Next was to flute (straighten the web area) the Rib, Root Rib, Nose Rib, and Tip Rib. After the four ribs were properly fluted, they were final drilled and clecoed to the Front and Rear Spar to form the skeleton of the Vertical Stabilizer.

Once the skeleton was formed with the Ribs and Spars, the Outer Skin was fitted and clecoed into place. The RV-14 kit from Van's is manufactured so precisely, I only had to make a few minor adjustments for an exact fit. The picture below shows the Vertical Stabilizer clecoed together with the Outer Skin attached to the skeleton.