shawnd

Another update: avionics work is in full swing, got slightly delayed by panel design/proof/finalize work but here it is: and a test fit of switches - love the attention to wiring:

FWIW - Air Power Inc has 670105 on back order now with stock expected beginning of December.. for those folks who want to order one: https://www.airpowerinc.com/670105

As part of my avionics install work, I had the local shop install the LED recognition lights that @OSUAV8TER helped bring to life. They look great! Haven’t turned it on yet but sure glad that I won’t have to worry about holes in the new lens installed a couple annuals ago! Also, thanks to Regal Air at KPAE for paying attention to details when installing these (and the rest of the work they are doing).

After a few iterations with the design, the test panel has arrived. The CB panel markings still need a revision (it will be rounded and separate sections instead of the solid lines and one big blob). You can also see the new switches fitted on the test panel. It might be a bit big if you are comparing to the ETA rockers, but looks nice after looking at a M20V panel at the factory. The avionics shop is also making quicker progress than I expected. Firewall front is done and looks great - luckily they also believe in functionality and clean looking result when it comes to their work. My turn to pick up the pace and finish the seat and wall panels that AirTex shipped and then on to interior panel repair. Enjoy the pictures:

Here's my take on it: Lesson 0 - be ready to spend a lot of money Lesson 1 - get the initial estimate and prepare for shock Lesson 2 - start adding all the add-ons b/c this is "THE" opportunity to do so Lesson 3 - be prepared to spend a lot more money Lesson 4 - watch the bank account get empty Lesson 5 - it's all good - you have brand spankin' new panel and you are proud of your baby!

@Marc_B do you have the contacts at International Avionics still handy? That’s pretty neat that they were able to help with that request after so many years.

Amen - if you are really interested in details, you may end up doing all the research for your installer I got lucky with a guy who is willing to partner up and work with me while maintaining a high bar and pushing back when needed. Good combo.

@LANCECASPER Thanks for sharing this - given I have been a ROP guy so far, I am keen to try out the configuration Bob mentions near the end of the article once my plane is back.

It was great to see everyone and put names to faces. It's actually a bit odd typing this and referring to MS aliases instead of just names :-) But hope to see y'all next year! Here's another photo of the Bob from the front. Great guy - lots of knowledge on the 252 as you can imagine.

Yeah my shop had me switch to MaxDim Duo as well, to get rid of the old school potentiometers and allowing better control of LEDs.

Gotcha. I bought the 24V ones with cool white independent on top and dependent on bottom. They recommended against the warm white for heat issues. Need to test it on the panel when it’s ready. It’s not a problem at all during the day but need to dim it down for dark ops. Amber has a less light leak than the cool white. But with a good dimmer, hoping it’s not an issue. Al visual, but still, bothers me when we are spending so much money on the plane :-)

Mine is 24V. I got mine through rockerswitchpros.com but also talking to Jim at OTRTTW for the L series ones (also used in M20U). An example or pictures of how you did the paint workaround would be appreciated :-) No rush - thank you.

Thanks for letting us know @wombat! I should have asked too. Will try the stock Mooney ones for now I guess

And also - what part numbers did you acquire and from who? Did you get the whole set from OTRATTW? Thanks - I am going through this phase right now!

Btw, any bleed from the LEDs behind the switch?