Panel & Console
This is how my left side panel is currently configured.
The modular design of my panel has allowed me to easily change and upgrade the panel and projects complete and finances allow purchases of additional equipment. I began to update this page when I realized I don't have pics of the latest panel incarnation, so I removed the old ideas and will post some new pics soon.
I wanted this plane to be able to be flown from either side with all controls within easy reach. A console was the easiest way to achieve this. I realize that many RV-6 builders modified their panel to eliminate the center post, but I didn't feel it to be an issue. It actually feels like many sports cars. The console has room to mount all engine controls, prop governor, cabin heat, fuel pump controls, aileron & elevator trim, lighting and miscellaneous switches.
The console between the seats contains the fuel transfer pumps as well as the selector valves. The fuel transfer/boost pump & fuel injection pump switches are located just ahead of this at the bottom of the upright console, keeping all fuel management controls grouped together within easy reach of either seat.
Aileron trim & elevator trim are located above the fuel section on the console. Above this is the throttle quadrant. Left of throttle is the ignition key, panel dimmer knob & parking brake. Right of throttle is flap switch, cabin temp & vent/floor control. Above throttle is EC2 mixture control Beside this is a control knob for adjusting engine coolant temp. This works by varying the speed of the electric water pump. Adjusting this for a little cooler will give more power, a little hotter will give better fuel efficiency. Beside this is electronic prop governor. Switches on top row are for lights & pitot heat. All controls are at the fingertips of the pilot from either side.
Panel as also been extended 2 inches on both sides of the console. On the right side the panel extension is actually a drawer front which opens to access a laptop computer. This is used for weather updates, Jeppeson FlightMap flight software, MP3 player etc.
Left side of panel extension is split with the first section opening a small lid to reveal 2 power points. Hidden behind the remaining lid is engine programming and management controls. This panel is easily accessible while flying from either seat, but is also covered to prevent any accidental activation of any of the switches. Contained here are programming buttons for the AOA, programming controls for the EC2 engine computer, coil disable switch, injector disable switches, and EWP controller bypass switch.
Headsets plug into the panel extension beneath the eyeball vents.
I've already purchased an AOA system from PPS, however my Dynon also as an AOA indicator. So I've mounted the PSS AOA on my glare sheild which has given me a poor mans heads-up display.
I will add to this page as panel progresses.
May 31, 2005
The sticks are offset from a center position with the pedals, which I didn't like, & it becomes quite obvious with the addition of the center console, so I decided to offset them back to center. The boots will cover the offset.
I ordered a throttle quadrant from Aircraft Spruce, but was disappointed at the quality of what I received so I built my own.
Console between the seats contains all fuel selectors, plumbing & transfer pumps.
Throttle cable is connected to throttle quadrant inside electrical enclosure
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center console is a little to low for use as an arm rest, so I added this rest which provides storage space as well.
This is a temporary panel to get airborne, basic VFR. Panel upgrades will begin immediately