Using an EFIS instead of “steam gauges” in my Bede BD-4C airplane allowed me to simplify the instrument panel. BD-4 panels usually have the instruments in the main part of the panel; an angled lower section with a few more instruments, circuit breakers, and switches; and then a console with the fuel selector and engine controls. The EFIS, even with dual 10 inch screens, uses little enough panel space that I eliminated the console entirely and shrank the lower section. I ended up with a single, flat panel. Here is one of my mock ups.
With the mock up done, I designed the panel with Inkscape and worked with Laciny Bros. to have it cut on their waterjet from a sheet of .063 aluminum. They also bent a flange along the bottom edge, to add some rigidity.
With the radio stack mounted on the back of the instrument panel, I installed the instrument panel in my Bede BD-4C. There is a large angle running the width of the cabin which carries the weight of the panel. Here is a photo of the panel being test fit to that angle.
I added six additional angles to stabilize the panel.
With the instrument panel bolted into the plane, I installed the MGL iBOX and iEFIS screens, the radio stack, and set the switches and fuel selector in place for a glamor shot.
Seeing all of the electronics successfully powered up was one of the best days of my life!
Looks great! Did you coat the installed panel? It looks black.
I used a truck bed liner in a spray can from the aviation aisle at Home Depot
Looks super! Makes my BD-4 panel look like prehistoric!