Kit Panel or scratch build?

[dicel87]

http://www.kit-panels.com/

Anyone have any experience with this product? The base line model at $7,500 would fit what I want (VFR) but can you put together something like this cheaper? And even if you could, I wonder if the additonal cost is worth the savings in putting together and wiring up a panel on your own.

Scott

[Davepar]

It's odd that none of the configurations offer an engine monitor. I count that as a must-have. It's a tempting pitch, though. $7500 + 2 hours, and the panel is done. Go flying and work on the ultimate panel later.

[vlittle]

Scott:

I have no direct experience with these guys, but from the look of their website, they are offering some nice products.

If you have no experience or desire to do your own panel, this would be a good choice if you can live within the limitations of their design-- such as no engine monitor, no GPS.

You will, of course, be giving up the most pleasurable experience of the whole project-- designing and building your own panel. When it comes to maintenance, you'll be at a disadvantage as well.

Many people don't want to deal with electrical design, but if you think you might like to try, you can use my schematic as a starting point:

http://www3.telus.net/aviation/flying/RV-9A/rv-9a.html (see link at top)
http://www3.telus.net/aviation/vx.html (avionics stuff).

Vern Little, RV-9A

[dicel87]

Thanks Vern. I am very acquainted with your site.....nice work. Cool little stick grips you came up with