new panel

amichelin · #1 09-27-03, 11:27 PM

Hi
I am planning a new panel in my 1973 337P. I have some equipment that I purchaed used and some i want to buy new. My contact with the "established " shops did not go over very well as they are not happy that i am bringing my own equipment.

I am in Southern California, but will fly 11 western states for a good deal.

I am thinking about getting one of thoes special made pre-wired harness, if anyone has any history with a pre wired harness please let me know.

FYI. I am putting in a kmd 150 with gps and a KLN 90B. 2 KX 155's , and a KMD 24.

All very reaonsably priced.

Comments please!

Adam

Rickskymaster · #2 09-28-03, 06:04 AM

I lived in LA for 20 years, but it was 10 years ago.
At that time Vista Aviation at Whitman and Jim's Avionics at Van Nuys would install without purchasing equipment.
Since I have not been there for a while, it could have changed.
My old mechanic is located on Torrance and if anyone would know, it would be this guy. Let me know how things turn out.
By the way, I am going to be in LA this coming weekend. Taking Jet Blue at $119 each way, cannot meet the deal.

Rick

amichelin · #3 09-29-03, 12:51 AM

thanks for the tip. I am asking Vista if they will do it. I will call the other guy in vny.

jimmuse · #4 10-25-03, 04:36 PM

Hi,.

You might check with Dick Dale (shoot him an email at dick@dickdale.com).

He was very happy with his avionics guy in Ramona.

And where in SoCal? I am at SNA with 3 other Skymasters... actually 4.

Jim

amichelin · #5 10-25-03, 07:47 PM

Hi Jim

I am at HHR although I fly into sna frequently. I have selected Vista out of Whiteman, i know a few that have had their panel done at Vista and were very happy.

I have a very very bad experience at Boward at Ramona. I am looking for a mechanic that knows 337's. Any help their?

Adam - N79C

jimmuse · #6 10-26-03, 10:26 AM

Jay's Aircraft Maintenance at SNA. They work on 4 currently and know them well.

amichelin · #7 10-26-03, 12:06 PM

Hi Jim

Thanks i will sto by and vist the next time i am at sna.
Adam

Robert · #8 12-28-04, 10:44 PM

Hi Adam, Robert here. We keep our 66 337 at SEE (Gillispie) near San Diego. My 337 Parter, John, is an A & P with an IA designation and he also is a CFII. He maintains our 337 along with a friend's beautiful 77. Having spent hundreds of hours working alongside John to restore our 337 from 97 to 99, I can state, without reservation, that he is an outstanding mechanic. His cell is 619-922-1537. If you call, be ready to talk because John love's to yak about airplanes. He truely is a walking aviation encyclopedia.

Rickskymaster · #9 12-29-04, 07:35 AM

My family and I are staying in Anaheim Hills, if any of the guys who keep their planes at SNA have time, I would enjoy coming over and visiting, we leave on Sunday,
I have a 76 Normal and have had it for 3 years.
My cell is 410-916-0039

Thanks

Rick

Dale Campbell · #10 12-29-04, 08:35 AM

Hi Amichelin,
Iam on the East Coast and use O & N for all 337 repairs and panel work. I have basicly the same instrument you are installing.
I put in the KMD150 King in 3 years ago and love it. Large screen and very easy to operate. I will include a photo of panel if you need ideas of layout. Dale Campbell

Richard · #11 12-29-04, 04:19 PM

Nice Nice panel. Just curious. What is your empty wieght of your plane?

amichelin · #12 12-29-04, 07:50 PM

Hi Robert

I will call him up and chat. I will tell you that Jay at Jays Aircraft in SNA has been a real life saver for me. His team is just tops.

Adam

amichelin · #13 12-29-04, 07:59 PM

Hi Rick

Sorry I just returned from vacation. You are welcome to call Jay (714-433-2275) and visit my plane (new engine and interior). I will not be able to meet you, after 2 weeks vacation I am just crazy at work.

Adam

amichelin · #14 12-29-04, 08:01 PM

Hi Dale

Great panel. I will send you a picture in a few days. The only diference between your panel and mine is I have a IFR rated 89B that feeds the 150. I just love the 150 bright, very clear and very very readable.
Adam

Dale Campbell · #15 12-31-04, 09:20 AM

Hi Amichelin,
To answer you question, on useful weight. In 2000 when I had the plane refurbed. I had large main gear doors removed and related actuator and plumbing. All new lighter interior installed. Some old instrument replaced with newer lighter instruments. And I removed the 5th and 6th seat and seat belts, I gained a little more useful load. I had the new weight and balance done. The useful load is about 1637 lbs. I also got the weight and balance done with the 5th and 6th seat back in, just in case I put them back. In the past 4 years they have never been back in. I like the larger cargo area. I have the 155 gallon fuel tanks which I keep full for most flights. I found a field with cheap fuel prices ranging from $1.98 to $2.30 average price over the last 4 years.
It is 60 miles from my home base. That is why I keep tanks full and to keep out moisture. I know I am with-in proper weight and balance and do not have to cut down fuel unless I plan a 4 person flight. Any other questions, I would be happy to answer.
I love my 337H. Dale