Panel mod idea - Page 2

bret · #11 01-02-2016, 12:34 PM

another question, who has the flap switch on the stick and who has it on the dash, I understand it is more wiring with it on the stick, just looking for some pros and cons.....

jjconstant · #12 01-02-2016, 12:45 PM

I have flaps switch on the panel. I feel a certain amount of nervousness at the thought of anything on the stick that could cause damage if bumped in turbulence such as flaps and starter. I know you can have a defeat switch on the panel or other fancy ways of trying to ensure it doesn't get inadvertantly activated, but I never had a problem with reaching for flaps on the panel. That said, build it like you want it. If you think you would like it, just minimize the risks.

Jesse · #13 01-02-2016, 01:41 PM

I like putting the flaps on the stick.

Taildrgr · #14 01-02-2016, 01:55 PM

My flap switch is just left of the throttle on the sub panel.

I use the VPX flap software so I only have to bump the switch once for 10 degrees, again for 20 and a third time for 40 degrees. One bump up and the flaps fully retract.

I like the fact that I don't have to hold my finger on the flap switch.

The switch is very convenient when I have my hand on the throttle during takeoff and landing.

SMO · #15 01-02-2016, 02:23 PM

My flap switch is on the stick. The switch is Off in the middle, Momentary for flaps down and On for flaps up. My system (VP-200) also has a "flaps inhibit" based on a configurable airspeed. The flap motor automatically switches off at the end of its travel as well. This switch configuration works great for go-arounds and circuits, however I would consider the end of travel shutoff mandatory.

My RV-4 had the switch on the panel; I prefer the switch on the stick. YMMV.

krw5927 · #16 01-04-2016, 11:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bret

another question, who has the flap switch on the stick and who has it on the dash, I understand it is more wiring with it on the stick, just looking for some pros and cons.....

Both. On the stick for me, and on the panel for flying from the right seat. Requires a flaps relay, but I wanted one anyway.

Raymo · #17 01-04-2016, 12:09 PM

Flaps, trim, starter and radio flip/flop and autopilot disconnect on the stick with Composite Designs 3 way relay and PHAviation up stop limit switch to be installed on the flap below the actuator. Co-pilot stick will have a panel switch to disable all buttons on the right side.

One hand flying, the other is throttling or mixing.

lr172 · #18 01-07-2016, 07:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bret

another question, who has the flap switch on the stick and who has it on the dash, I understand it is more wiring with it on the stick, just looking for some pros and cons.....

I did both. The panel switch is right near the throttle and I always use it. I am typically trimming the elevator while the flaps go in on downwind and using the hat switch would require me to trim after flap extension. I don't see ever using the stick based flap switch and may change it to a low speed elevator trim switch. I made a voltage reducing circuit for this.

quite a bit more wiring/fab for dual switches. In addition to the standard relays, I recommend an isolation component in the circuit in the event that both switches are simultaneously activated you don't create a short. You have a 50% chance of that happening on polarity reversing motor controls. In this case, using one switch disconnects the other from the circuit.

RV7Guy · #19 01-07-2016, 08:25 AM

I don't have time right now to post pictures but I highly modified my sub panel to accommodate accessories. I used a composite panel with inserts for everything. I believe the structure is stronger than stock. The mods allow for access to everything by removing the EFIS screens.

I know some have put access panels in the front skin. Personally, they ruin the great looks of the front of the RV. Also, after talking to a couple of guys that have installed them, they said the actual access to components is somewhat limited and they wouldn't do it again.

Regarding putting the flaps on the stick, don't do it. There is too much going on and accidental activation is too real of possibility. Especially in turbulence. Not good. The caveat to that is if you are using the VPX you can set them to an airspeed value to prevent activation. Flaps on the stick could cause issues in the event of a critical go around. Activating the flaps on the stick, while controlling in a critical phase of flight is just not worth it. Put the flaps right next to the throttle so both can be activated with one hand.

I'll put some pictures up later of the mods I made.

Raymo · #20 01-07-2016, 11:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bret

another question, who has the flap switch on the stick and who has it on the dash, I understand it is more wiring with it on the stick, just looking for some pros and cons.....

More wiring? I don't think so, IMO. The flap motor wire run is relatively short if going to a relay in the floor. From there, it receives connections from the stick and power/ground from the panel.

If using the Infinity grip, the flap switch is momentary down/off/up. You can achieve the same thing with a panel switch but I like the idea of keeping my non-flying hand available for other tasks. I can also type with all my fingers and thumbs, so maybe that has something to do with the decision.