skywagon8a
MEMBER
SE Mass MA6
Wow sj, That is a typical 1940-50s panel. A mismash! (no offense intended) Here are some comments from an arm chair perspective.
The first thing to do is to investigate changing the yoke from a T to a Y. Get out the parts manual and study the pictures. Get some measurements of the critical points to be sure that it is doable and is it legal without spending your wad of cash. I do not think that the cables and sprockets will be a direct swap. Perhaps under the floor where they connect to the rest of the system? Someone else here may have the answer?
Take the panel out and mount it above the fireplace with a placard honoring Paul Fisher.
This panel is so full of wasted space that it is difficult to say where to begin.
Start with a piece of cardboard cut to the outside dimensions of the available space. Mark on the cardboard where all of the behind the panel restrictions are located.
Cut out some full sized squares of cardboard +1/8" all around of the maximum dimensions of each instrument and radio. Allow for the radio support brackets. Make note on each piece of the depth including connectors. Then like a jig saw puzzle move them around until you like the results.
Update your brain into the 21st century and set up the flight instruments in the "basic "T" layout.
You have way too many 2-1/4" engine instruments sucking up space. Consider one of the "all in one" units which are available. Place it way over on the right side.
Take that stall horn and hide it behind the panel somewhere. If you want the light just place a separate light where it doesn't interfere with the rest of your more important stuff. It won't be hard to find a small acceptable location after all else is done. You will still be able to keep the marker beacon lights. Consider turning them vertically.
The GNS430 can easily move up where you can see it. You may even find that it actually does more than you think it does.
You may even find that some of the other radios can move upstairs though leaving them below as secondary uses would not be inconvenient. Move the transponder up to the top of it's current location. Move the ILS indicator over to where the turn coordinator is now. Move the turn coordinator to the right one space. Move the VOR indicator down to the left of the KX-155. You don't need those two instruments up in front of your face. The VOR indicator is only used for secondary purposes anyway.
If the DG will not fit directly under the AH then move them to one side a bit.
Include your smart phone in the layout if you wish so that it's use will not cover other instruments.
If you have a G-5 (or 2) in your future keep that in mind now by making allowances for it.
Perhaps I'm a bit naive but I'm seeing the biggest expense being the new engine instrument and some labor for making the new panel. This does look (at least from here) as though it can be done without changing the control column.
