Today I spent several hours working on panel installation and finishing the tail light. This portion of the session focused on the panel and included:
• Removing all terminal screws on the switches and circuit breakers, adding lock washers, and then tightening all down and tidying up various bundles. • Added TNC and BNC connectors to the RG 400 for the SXM and GPS connections. On the right side I foolishly cut the cable about ½” too short prior to installing the connector…fortunately there was just enough slack in the cable to allow me to pull it through a bit. • Installing the GDU 465 displays, GTN 625 & GMA 240 boxes, and the TruTrak autopilot. • Temporarily installing the ELT display to check for fit—I still need to purchase a battery to power the unit and reinstall final. • Finished installing stainless screws around the perimeter of the panel. • Installed the flap cover plate and flap switch. This proved to be somewhat challenging due to the complete lack of access behind the panel with the avionics in. I ended up taking out the PFD to facilitate access.
When I was done, I powered up the avionics and did a quick check to ensure that everything was working properly before moving on to the tail light.
