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 significant, costly instrument panel upgrade for his 1953 Cessna 170B, motivated by an ambassador partnership with Garmin.
The project's main goal was to integrate modern avionics while preserving the aircraft's vintage aesthetic, avoiding a "blank wall" of digital screens.
This was achieved using round Garmin GI 275 instruments, retaining some legacy analog gauges, and meticulously replicating original design elements like a blue diamond pattern with the help of NewView Technologies.
The completed "restomod" panel enhances the plane's IFR capability, safety, and reliability, delivering a unique flying experience with a blend of modern function and classic style.

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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.