A larger instrument panel option

[GWMotley]

Hello group,
When I built my Sonex I knew I wanted more real estate for switches and other things. Besides, what pilot doesn't like switches to play with? So I added a sub panel. This did require shortening the control sticks by about an inch or two. Still, I have plenty of stick to yank and bank like any true Sonex pilot. :D True, it does make it much more difficult to crawl under the panel for wiring issues. This winter, while down for other carb maintenance, I convinced my self to pull the windshield and begin designing a new larger instrument panel. Now I can mount a full sized Ipad right in the center! No more hanging bits and pieces of stuff around the glare shield. The panel is two inches taller than stock, but the overall surface area is much larger. Now, I can remove the subpanel, or the panel, or the top part of the glare shield to access any wires without having to break my back. This also decreases the cost of my chiropractic visits. The new panel size does not obstruct any view over the nose either. So, I thought I would provide a link to pictures for any who might be interested. Have fun flying.
Pictures are located here http://postimg.org/gallery/grsgfqv8/

[Sonex1517]

Nice!


Robbie Culver
Sonex 1517
Chicagoland
Tails and Wings complete - finishing fuselage.
N1517S reserved

[DCASonex]

The bottom channel I added was only 1-3/4" deep, just big enough to mount standard circuit breakers, did not have to shorten the stick. Every fraction of an inch between seat and bottom of panel is critical when need arises to get under there. A large EFIS that mounts with just a couple of screws leaves a big hole for access behind panel eliminating much but not all of the need to crawl under under. Since panel is an integral structural part of the Sonex air frame, I also added additional structure when bisecting my panel with a large EFIS. Have drawings on that if anyone looking for ideas

[avee8r]

That's some panel alright!
Me? I prefer large size, full color, gyroscopically stabilized, horizon with real time, full view weather. Both are easily adjusted by your choice of inputs, already in the kit from Sonex. There's no consideration about ease of entry or exit and neither ever need updating.
Happy Landings
John
N50NX