All the ANSWERS after 2 years, 200 hours Flown

The costs, a thorough review of the RV-14, and detailed breakdown of components.

In this episode of Flight Chops, I'm doing my best to share what I've learned operating the airplane for 200 hours. I'm also answering a bunch of the key questions such as what did things cost, what do we like, what did we modify, what do I wish I knew, what snags have there been, etc...

Here are some of the major component partners we are proud to be working with on the Van’s Aircraft RV-14:

Center console:

Glare shield:

Air / Oil separator - Raven Aircraft
- have it now installing ASAP

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FLIGHT CHOPS DISCLAIMER:

I am a "weekend warrior" private pilot, I fly for fun with no intentions of going commercial. I have had my PPL for over 15 years, but still consider each flight a learning experience - I generally take detailed notes after each flight to remind myself what went well or what I could do to improve.... Having GoPro cameras to record flights like this is invaluable. I find these self analysis videos very helpful in my constant quest to improve, and am happy to share. Feedback is invited; however, please keep it positive.

[foesfly]

The way you edit, tying multiple subjects into one, overall theme, makes for a very interesting and entertaining video. Add to that, your multiple excellent camera angles and quality audio throughout every scene (an impressive feat, considering the wide variety of environments). Your work is absolutely Top Quality Content
😎🎩♠️💙

[paulmerems]

Great video. One thing for builders to consider when adding complexity to their project is the maintenance access. As one ages, it is much harder to work in the cockpit.. I built my 7A when I was 40's Now in my 60's it is much harder to maneuver in the cockpit during the conditional inspection and maintenance.

Dream it, Build it, Fly it

EAA Tech Counselor, Sheet Metal Workshop Volunteer 20+ yrs.

[markarnett]

Hi Steve...I followed your RV-14 build from the beginning. I certainly appreciate your full disclosure of the costs for such a venture and as you showed with the RV-4, how the costs can widely vary especially with a little DIY. So many producers gloss over these costs. I have always counted on "Flight Chops" to give the straight scoop on "the good, the bad, and the ugly". It would be nice if fewer producers would spend less time as influencers and more time (like you) educating ...Mark

[paulschannel]

My 7A came out a little aft of where I'd like the CG. It was VERY pitch sensitive!!! Flew it like that for 10 years and just a few months ago added a second battery forward of the first. Added about 14.5 lbs and shifted the empty CG about 3/8 inch forward. Doesn't seem like much but it did make a difference. The additional benefit of bringing the second battery online before cranking... WOW... that prop spins! I fly until the amp draw is normal indicating batteries are fully charged and then switch the second battery off.

[farmerkevin]

Your passengers reaction to the loop was great. I love this plane, you did a great job with it.

[Mike-]

The question is would you spend $250k out of your own pocket. I'm assuming sponsorship paid for lot of that which is great I would do the same. RV-14 quick build is 65k it's possible to get it flying for $120k if one does lot of their own work overhauling a used engine themselves. Even find an A&P to assist in an engine overhaul.

[hefeibao]

Outstanding overview, and thanks for sharing the most common questions up front, as it allowed me at least to just relax and enjoy the rest of the video over a nice coffee. Well done, and thanks!

[joshjobin]

I took a couple of those in flights shots of Perry and John! Great guys! 8:01 20:27

[m]

Hey Steve!!! Thank you for practicing where you do. I love walking out of work to see you overhead and upside down!!

[wesvasher]

Seeing your plane last year at Osh Kosh was a highlight of the trip. Stunning airplane.

[kirbyclone]

I never would have chosen manual trim, but the RV-7 I bought had manual trim and I am so glad that is what I have!

[Kataze]

It's fantastic to see you getting comfortable in your airplane!! Hope to join you soon

[ChrisB]

2 years!! Hard to believe Steve... I clearly remember watching the build videos.
Great breakdown of your thoughts - pros and cons - for sure the touchy trim function must be a bit irritating. You certainly have a more than handsome and fast plane - take-off is impressive. The EarthX battery is amazing at 600A cold start. Overall a huge investment but in value terms pretty darned good - you probably have a near permanent smile when flying, not to mention the thrills of accro. :)

[unclefreddy]

Great video, I really appreciate that you mentioned that you don’t have to go full high end with everything. Awesome!

[oisiaa]

Dave has lost weight! An inspiration in more than one way.

[tocsals]

I'm not a Garmin expert by a long shot but looking at their trim servo motor, it looks like a stepper-style motor. Maybe ask Garmin if there is an option in software to slow down or microstep that output?

[locustvalleystring]

Thanks for your straightforwardness....the plusses and minuses are important to share and you do it.

[dallesamllhals]

20:42 WAIT! Is that an Avro Lancaster?

[thefamilythatfliestogether]

Great episode! It looks like the plane has held up pretty well over the 200 hours and two years. Thanks for including the build cost. You really do save a lot when comparing experimental and certified avionics. My only suggestion would be to engineer a little access door in the wheel pants so you can check tire pressure and fill the tires with air. My old Cessna 150 and my old Piper 235 had wheel pants that made the tube stem unaccessible and it was such a pain.

[Lee-qpgf]

My electric trim in my 6A took ten miles to get it in a good level trim at 180.