RV-4 panel replacement - cut and use existing panel? - Page 2

jamlip · #11 04-06-2019, 02:49 PM

This answers my question perfectly.

I think overlaying a new panel will help minimize downtime as I can build and test everything out of the aircraft.

Thanks guys!

DeeCee 57 · #12 04-06-2019, 03:06 PM

did 3 of ?em panels on the -4... yeah, technology was moving faster than I was building

Nevertheless, using 2ea AN-3 bolts on each bottom sides had (and still has) the panel removable pretty quick, and useable as a pattern to trace the outline on the new blank...

Good luck on yours!

Lufthans · #13 04-07-2019, 09:03 AM

And as an FYI: Vans has a Autocad file of a plain panel on their web site (or at least, it used to be on the old site, I'm sure they've found a place for it on their new one as well). This file includes some standard cut-outs for instruments. A few hours of CAD work and maybe $80 of CNC will get you sorted without having to cut one bit yourself :-)

Kooshball · #14 03-03-2020, 04:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jamlip

I am interested in updating the panel of my 1987 RV-4.

To minimise downtime, I was wondering if it would be acceptable to cut-away the existing panel to create a flange of 3/4" or so all the way around, fix anchor nuts to the back, and then attach the new panel over the top with machine screws?

I guess what I'm really asking is - is the panel a structural in an RV-4?

And, is this acceptable practice, or a hokey mess? I feel fairly confident that it will look smart when finished.

How did your project end up? I am in a similar spot where we plan to remove 6 steam gauges in the middle of the panel, install a sport EX and leave all other existing gauges on the sides...trying to figure the best way to get it done.

Scott Hersha · #15 03-03-2020, 07:50 PM

I just replaced the panel on my RV4. I bought a new blank from Vans ($55), and cut it out with my jig saw (20 minutes), using my old panel as a template. It fit perfectly. Then I marked my new equipment and cut those holes out with my jig saw - maybe 2 hours with the saw and a vixen file. These holes would also have to be made if you made individual panels as you suggest. I mounted nutplates for attaching the EFIS screens and radio rack, and I was done - aside from painting it. All in all, it doesn?t take that long, and is easy to do.