Prewar Instrument Panel Buck

[1938BF50]

Like the majority of the prewar instrument panels out there, mine is cut, patched, bent, wrinkled and just plain ugly. I was able to get my hands on a couple decent panels to take dims off and then generate a CAD model. As you can see, I am making a buck to then make some new panels. Attached are a couple pics of the buck being CNC machined and as removed from the machine this morning. After nearly two months wait, I was finally able to schedule an overnite run on my machines! Anxious to take it home tonite and try a couple existing panels for fit and function.

Safe and happy Thanksgiving to all!

[Falcon10]

Re: Prewar Instrument Panel Buck

Mike:
Looks great!!! I would be interested in a new panel for my 39. Let me know what you will need.
Thanks and happy thanksgiving
Jim.

[M Jones]

Re: Prewar Instrument Panel Buck

Good job Mike! I have a decent pre-war panel in a box that I planed to use to replace my existing beat up panel "one of these days". It needs a little work too though. I would be happy to help share the costs you've got involved to get a new owner made panel. We can work out a way to share the labor costs you've already got into this somehow too if you're interested.

Sorry I haven't gotten up to your place yet. I'm now grounded until I can get the struts tested...

[Hank Jarrett]

Re: Prewar Instrument Panel Buck

WOW! Am I JEALOUS! A CNC cut, ACCURATE, pre-war buck. I had to hand carve my 41 buck and tap the new panel from sheet stock. If you have access to a Hydro-Form I won't be able to stand it. I hope the rest of the early pre-war guys appriciate how fantastic that buck is.
Hank

[Ragwing nut]

Re: Prewar Instrument Panel Buck

Did you cut the finger joints in that wood?

I have a draw form a buddy made when he made a new panel for his "A". I will be using it to make a new panel for my "B" when I get to that point.

Mike