The time to build the fuel tanks is finally here. This is the step in the entire airplane build process that I am most hesitant about, and it nearly tipped the scales to going with quick build wings vs. my final decision for the standard build option. There are also builder assist programs that will help with the tanks, but that route was simply too expensive. We'll see if this phase of the build is much ado about nothing, or something I needed professional help with!

As usual, I scanned the safety directives and alerts, service bulletins, notifications and letters, and revisions and changes on the Van's support page to ensure my plans and parts are up to date. I was surprised to find only one revision to the plans, which tells me the design and construction steps are really solid. The change had to do with the geometry of the float wire for the fuel sender unit, which was already corrected on the plans I received with the kit. Another useful section of the Van's website is their video on fuel tank construction. I watched the video start to finish twice, and plan to keep it cued up as I go through my build process to review specific techniques at each stage of the build. The video uses an RV-8 tank as the example, which has several differences from the RV-14 tank; but most of the video is still relevant and I highly recommend it.
https://www.vansaircraft.com/faq/fuel-tank-construction-tips-and-techniques-video-series/

The fuel tank is a unique part of the build due to the internal plumbing and the need for sealant to prevent leaks through the various joints and rivets. Structurally, the tanks are similar to the outboard leading edges with notable differences with the inboard rib and the addition of skin stiffeners on the bottom skin. The inboard rib is split into two pieces to allow a tank attach bracket to extend through it. Another difference for me is priming is limited to specific parts on the exterior of the tank. Van's fuel tank tips video stresses the need to clean the parts well before applying the sealant, and warns against the problems of using too much sealant. The plans have very detailed written steps compared to other sections of the build, and they should be good at keeping everything on track.

Time for fun with tank sealant!