FORWARD AND AFT OVERHEAD PANEL

The forward and aft overhead is probably the most complex panel, both in the real aircraft and in the simulator. Therefore, it has been earmarked to complete at a latter stage in the project.  I believe it’s wise to have everything else working in the simulator (MIP, avionics, throttle, CDU, etc) with minimal bugs before connecting the two overhead panels.

At first, a forward and aft panel produced by Flight Deck Solutions was going to be used; because of its 'plug and fly' capability.  However, an OEM Boeing 737 overhead frame appeared on the market at a reasonable price, and I was fortunate in securing the forward and aft sections along with Cole starter switches, gauges, light switch toggles and several other switches and panels. 

forward overhead with oem panels (still in construction)

OEM Panels and Timeline

The overhead frame comes from a 737-500 classic series aircraft.  However, the differences between the classic and Next Generation frame is minimal; it's relatively straightforward to modify the panels that are installed into the frame to ensure they are Next Generation compliant.

The process of procuring the OEM panels to secure to the overhead frame is time consuming.  Too date, all the panels have been acquired with the exception of two panels.  Where OEM panels cannot be used, a high-end reproduction panel will be used in it's place.  These panels, if required, are to be fabricated by a specialist craftsman in the United Kingdom and will not be supplied by the usual suppliers.

The final product is expected to be a mix-match of OEM and high-end reproduction panels, while  gauges, switches, toggles and knobs will be OEM.

The overhead is not a panel you can construct in a few days, and I'm not expecting to have a complete workable forward and aft panel for sometime.  The simulator is quite flyable without an overhead, so a time frame has not been set for completion.

As parts are acquired, updates will be posted in the Journal section.

Overhead Functionality

The forward and aft overhead controls the following functions:

Until I finish this page, the following video provides a good overview of the overhead functionality.

List to come soon.....

  • Updated 27 June 2020.