I read an article in avweb dated several years ago about replacing the old instrument panel with new metal panels. It suggested that it might not be easy to get FAA approval, especially if you have to restructure anything in the panel support system. Has anyone had any problem with this or were you able to draw a templete, cut the panel, and install?

Also, does anyone make the overlay for the bottom panel where the switches are. I don't think I want to refurbish the top panel without refurbishing the bottom panel.

Karl

Overlay
 

If you do an overlay, like Ernie, Jim Stack, and I did, it's not changing the structure of the airplane, and no approvals are needed. If you rip out the existing internal structure, then, yes, it needs to be approved.
The reason is that the internal structure is a structural portion of the airplane. That's why the AeroEnhancements panels were so great. They didn't change the structure of the airplane, just the appearance.

AvWeb Video on lighting the Instrument Panel
 

Here is a very nice option, re-light the instruments or a complete new lighted overlay.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=77YENkk-ywE&fmt=18

Here's a pic of my metal panel

Nice panel. Question, how do you like the Insight Engine Monitor? Compared to JPI? I notice you also have the Shadin Fuel Flow, what is the advatage to the Shadin vs JPI with fuel flow transducers and coupled to the 530? Do you need both? You have removed the original fuel flow by having the Shadin. Can the JPI with fuel also allow the removal of original fuel flow?

Very Nice panel, I hope to have one like it one day. I liked the avweb video to improve cockpit lighting, especially the nulight inserts. Here are pictues of mine and you'll see why I'm looking for imporvment. Much of the labeling is rubbed off.

Karl