Keeping the Vintage Cool During a Panel Upgrade

Garmin’s GI 275 flight instruments update a 1953 Cessna 170B panel without sacrificing its original round gauge aesthetic.

Jason McDowell

Wednesday, July 19, 2023 at 10:44 AM ET

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Garmin’s GI 275 flight instruments add full IFR capability and meticulous engine monitoring while maintaining the authenticity of a vintage aesthetic. [Credit: Jessica Voruda]

Key Takeaways:

The author undertook a full instrument panel upgrade on his 1953 Cessna 170B, motivated by a Garmin ambassador partnership, despite the aircraft's worn condition and significant cost.
The project focused on a "restomod" aesthetic, carefully blending modern Garmin GI 275 instruments and other advanced avionics with the plane's original vintage design elements, such as its curved panel, decorative patterns, and some analog gauges.
Working with NewView Technologies, the upgrade prioritized professional design and installation to enhance the aircraft's IFR capability, safety, and reliability, resulting in a unique and visually cohesive vintage-modern flying experience.

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I’m aware the outside of my airplane appears to have been flown through clouds of German flak. I’m aware the interior bears more resemblance to a clapped-out 1973 Chevy El Camino than to any modern or properly-restored Cessna. And I’m aware there are many simpler and more affordable ways to improve my airplane.

But when opportunity knocks, you take notice. And when that knocking comes in the form of an ambassador partnership with Garmin, you answer the door. This opportunity (separate from my work with FLYING) is what motivated me to take the plunge and spend tens of thousands of dollars on a full instrument panel upgrade on my 1953 Cessna 170B, and it is finally complete.