Does anyone have any experience converting a "high panel" Citabria to a "Low Panel". Is this feasible(paperwork wise). I am looking in earnest for a 66 GCAA due to the low panel and oleo gear. However, I know of two 65s available with high panels...that's what sparked my curiosity. Any thoughts/experiences?
High Panel/Low Panel
- Thread starter Jasers
- Start date
I think my airplane is what you are referring to as a 'low panel' airplane. A row of 3 1/2' instruments over the 2" Stewart Warner engine gauges? If so, I don't think it is specific to the years, as mine is a 1970. I'm decently sure the "high panel" was simply an option. IF that is true, than you should be able to covert to a low panel simply enough. The aluminum itself is NOT structural to the airframe at all. As such, MOST IA's would consider this a minor modification. If you found a factory low panel to put in, it's definitely just a logbook entry.
I'm planning on fabricating my own panel soon. This because I'm converting to EI Digital engine gauges, and because I want a standard six pack. I can do this with a panel much shorter than the factory "high" panel. Most likely just an inch taller than my current one.
I don't like the new factory six pack panel at all.
I'm planning on fabricating my own panel soon. This because I'm converting to EI Digital engine gauges, and because I want a standard six pack. I can do this with a panel much shorter than the factory "high" panel. Most likely just an inch taller than my current one.
I don't like the new factory six pack panel at all.
bookmaker
New member
I have a high panel in my 65 7ECA. Last October, my mechanic and I spent quite a lot of time behind it replacing the radio and other upgrades. With the removal of 4 or 5 plastic screws from the top of the glare shield (at least on mine), the entire top cover panel comes out and the instrument panel is only attached to the cross member above the knees. And of course, all the instruments and do-dads.
I would think that having a lower panel and glare shield to match would be very do-able.
The paperwork may be another question. It will also take some time moving and realigning all the instruments, gauges, radios, wires, tubes, etc.
I am 6'2", so the high panel is no problem for me.
Dale
I would think that having a lower panel and glare shield to match would be very do-able.
The paperwork may be another question. It will also take some time moving and realigning all the instruments, gauges, radios, wires, tubes, etc.
I am 6'2", so the high panel is no problem for me.
Dale