Piper Arrow Interior Renovation - Watch the Reveal

[@jhc236]

Wow man. Good for you! Beautiful Arrow.

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Thank you!

[@johnnydirect7815]

Very nice.

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Thank you very much… and thanks for watching!

[@HmanAviation73]

Final outcome looks awesome man! The restoration was definitely worth taking the time to do. 👍

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Thanks very much!

[@Breck724]

Bob, the plane interior looks great; thank you for taking us along!!

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Really glad you enjoyed it. Thanks very much for watching

[@joetrombatore5704]

Fabulous 🎉👍👍👍👏

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Thank you very much!

[@scottsmith7051]

You're a genius!

[@BlueSkyFlight]

LOL… I don’t know about that.. but thank you very much!

[@GMascelli]

Beautiful finished interior. Great job, I really like the color combo.

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Thank you very much… and thanks so much for watching

[@bmused55]

A really professional looking job. It looks like a much younger aircraft inside now!

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Thank you… and it smell great now too :)

[@BarryBenson-z2o]

Nice professional job!

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Thanks very much for that. I really appreciate the feedback.

[@hedonzx822]

Nice Job, Congrats 🍾👍🏻

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Thank you! And thanks for watching!

[@gveduccio]

Looks amazing you are hired 😮

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Lol…. Thank you!

[@stevendouglas8144]

Great job! I’m in the middle of doing a full interior + full panel upgrade in my 1955 V-Tail. I ordered everything except the front seats from AirTex. The front seats I ordered from Aviation Creations. Can’t wait to get mine complete. Your videos have given me A LOT of insight and is much appreciated! I’ve been sharing your channel, I hope it takes off for you!

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Thank you so much for the kind words and for sharing. I’m so glad this will be helpful for you… that was the whole point. Aviation Creations does amazing work. I love their channel… please share as you progress with the airplane.

[@gendaminoru3195]

Great job getting it thoroughly refirb. What a classic bird. And now you know your spar is OK and there's no corrosion and it looks better than factory new. What about exterior plastics and Knots 2U ? AND, your baggage door panel helps protect it from things moving around back there better, and it's probably quieter. I keep breath mints in my ashtrays! so they're not useless. Also if your black painted aluminum trim pieces flake off or get scuffed up, you might try a thick class III anodize - lots of shops will dip them for you and ONE LAST COMMENT - do a fresh W&B on the scales for the log book as trim may have changed from the amount of R&R work. Cheers. EDIT; I would also have, and you still can get new replacement plastic pieces like the passenger side window surround.

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Thank you very much. The airplane is definitely quieter with the soundproofing and the thicker windows - and yes, that panel is a plus! AND it smells fantastic inside - like a new car :)

[@rickpearce4653]

Good job . Looks like the insulation you installed will help with exterior noise entering the cabin .

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Thanks it seems to be doing a good job and I feel like the temperature is better as well.

[@markjessurun7765]

Hé it looks like you did a mighty Good job the Arrow looking real good Sir Congratulations and have lots of Safe Flights !! 😅😅😊😊

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Thank you very much for the kind words.

[@oscarcharlybravo]

What a fantastic job!!! I just bought a PA28-R and your videos are priceless for the rénovation I am planning.

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Glad to hear it. That’s why I documented it. It’s a lot of work but really rewarding. Let me know how it goes.

[@oscarcharlybravo]

@@BlueSkyFlight is there a way I can reach out directly? I have some questions about interior parts selection and ordering.

[@BlueSkyFlight]

[e-mail]

[@peteberry6425]

I do like that, its gone from an almost basic look to a real high end look, you did really well with that!

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Thank you very much… definitely enjoyed the work and the results.

[@danielreuter2565]

Scope creep at its finest. Cool that you did it yourself. I do all the work on my Arrow as well. The level of detail you have is great for future reference since I'll be doing my headliner at some point as well. Maybe you'll figure it how to put shoulder belts in too and save me some research lol. Subscribed.

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Thanks for the subscribe! Thought about the shoulder harnesses… maybe. I hope it is helpful. That’s why I decided to document the process in the first place. Thanks so much for watching… yeah definitely scope creep lol

[@bradgoodbread7976]

I replaced the Baggage Door Strap on my Arrow with the Gas Strut Baggage Door Steward! You will Love It!

[@BlueSkyFlight]

I’ve seen those. That does look like a good idea

[@skylane1829]

Sweet…..great job man….saw your video flying the “Fisk approach” too. Keep them coming and Fly safe👍

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Thank you - and thanks for watching!

[@jimdavis9864]

Love the final product and gave me some great ideas for mine. Maybe we will see you at a fly-in around Florida some time.

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Thank you! Yeah that would be great

[@beovp91]

First off, you are the man!!! Your bad carpets look better than my current carpets in my Arrow, N32693. Please send , update with information on the Seats, all the information on the seats. If you look at N32693 you will see why I look at your plane and i have high-back seat envy :) great work

[@BlueSkyFlight]

LOL… thanks for all of that. Glad you like what I did. Here’s a link to the video on the seat replacement. I got all the materials from Airtex and fabricated the headrests myself…. It’s all in the video. Not too hard to do. Piper Arrow Interior renovation part8 New Seat Upholstery kzbin.info/www/bejne/b4XLe6SspKZ3jZI

[@bigtime37ja]

Excellent job sir. Looks like a brand new aircraft.

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Thank you very much… and thanks for subscribing!

[@kellic713]

Wow! Impressive.

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Thanks very much and thank you for watching

[@rscrymes]

Wonderful!! All of your tips are giving me great ideas. Especially painting the aluminum (which I never considered). I'm with you on the ashtrays. I haven't figured out how I want to do that yet. Scratching my head on that one. Your temporary fix definitely looks better than keeping the ashtrays. I just want to say that I wouldn't be half as far in my renovations if it wasn't for your videos. Thanks!

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Really glad to hear how much they are helping. It’s exactly why I decided to document my renovation. I’ve seen a few people online that use a 3D printed replacement for the armrest. The bottom is the same but it expands into a cup holder on one end. Looks pretty useful but haven’t decided for sure if I like it or not. Type this in google “piper armrest cup holder” and you’ll see… some are pretty good.

[@JonJon-dk3nh]

Looks fantastic! Maybe a a nice new red fuel selector will finish it off. My reference is only the amazing Piper Arrows in Microsoft Flight Sim in VR. Love to fly a real one.

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Google “discovery flight near me” and go do it! Not sure of your age, but if you’re between 8-17, another option is: youngeaglesday.org/

[@JonJon-dk3nh]

@@BlueSkyFlight Nice one thanks Blue sky

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Be sure to let me know how your first flight goes… or if you have any trouble arranging something…. I’m sure there are plenty of pilots who would be happy to take you up.

[@patcantin5475]

Awesome job! Looking at doing the same in our Archer II. I’m super happy with your results 😊. Quick question though, just to have an idea, how much did it cost you for the whole job if you don’t mind to say. Just a ballpark idea.

[@BlueSkyFlight]

This video has the total cost breakdown for you. It’s a rewarding project. Let me know how it goes. What's the Cost for a New Interior in a Piper Arrow airplane kzbin.info/www/bejne/nJXcm2eshrWChq8

[@peterrimmer567]

It all looks great, are you going to do any avionic work, I don't know the gear you have

[@BlueSkyFlight]

I’m a little on the fence about that. I like the traditional steam gauges since I fly glass at work. I have a Garmin 530 for navigation and weather, plus my iPad so don’t really need to…. But…. Digital engine instrumentation is a thought… and I’ve also considered the garmin 275s to keep the look of steam gauges but eliminate the need for the vacuum system…

[@markbrown2450]

Looks fantastic, way to go! Were you supervised by an A&P or did the work fall under the owner/pilot umbrella?

[@BlueSkyFlight]

The work I did falls under the "owner performed maintenance" as far as any sign-offs required, however, I did use my A&P as a resource for discussing some of my plans, especially when it came to the windows. And he stopped by to check on my progress periodically. The side window replacement falls under "owner performed" - I think it #13 on the list, however I believe that if you are replacing the windshield, that would require and A&P signoff (but I didn't replace that). Thanks for the complement and for watching!

[@HarlanSiegel]

How is the Velcro on the side panels holding up? Did you end up having to add screws on any of it.

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Great question... I'm planning a follow up video very soon on that topic. Some areas are working great and a couple areas are not. The worst is the main door. With all the open and closing, there is one bottom corner that comes lose a little bit when the door is opened. Part of that is due to the fact that the door is sticking a little on that side. I have decided that a few areas will need some screws, however I think it will be minimal compared to the original installation. I've been holding off on doing any work on the interior until the weather cools down - like it is finally starting to do. Look for the update video fairly soon for all the details, and thank you very much for bringing up the topic!

[@1dullgeek]

Looks really great. Did this change the W&B at all?

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Ran sone new numbers for the windows even thought it’s a very small difference. Everything else was pretty much an even swap

[@GrumpyBumpy]

Very nice job. How long did it take? How did you order the two color side panels and change the seats from the old pattern to the new modern style covers with the side bolsters? Were those selectable options for the arrow or did you have to talk to Airtex and special order the pieces?

[@BlueSkyFlight]

When you order side panels from Airtex, you specify the main color and the trim color. They have a wide range of colors and materials to choose from, and your can order a sample of swatches from them for a few dollars. The new seat foam, with the side bolsters is standard when you order. The whole project was only a few months and that was working 3-5 hours per day 1-2 days per week. I could definitely be done much faster. If you watch all of the videos on this project, you'll get a feel for how long... most phases (disassembly, cleanout, soundproofing install, carpet install, headliner install, etc) are 1-2 day projects each. Hope this helps!

[@GrumpyBumpy]

Thx for the response. I am impressed at your work. I have a Navion that needs a new interior so I am trying to decide on Airtex or an upholstery shop. I think I can lay the carpets down but seats concern me especially since I do particularly like the Airtex pattern for Navion seats. It’s a little too old school for me. I was surprised at how different your new seats pattern for the shape of the bolsters and the seams from that of your old seats. So did you order your side panels complete with the rigid backing panels? My Navion has the coverings glued to a thin aluminum panel so Airtex may want to have me reglue their new coverings to my old panels which would be a big pain. You definitely went above and beyond on your plane and I applaud you for it.

[@BlueSkyFlight]

The stuff from Airtex was great. My panels came attached to the backing. It may be different for your plane. Call them and they can tell you. They know airplanes very well and are very helpful. They can answer your questions about the seats too. My guess is that the more modern foam design is done for most airplanes.

[@ryansandefer6887]

It looks phenomenal man. I’m not familiar with flying any piper aircraft that has actual carpet in it. All the pipers I fly have metal floors, WWII style… #rental life… I’m looking to buy a plane, I can’t seem to find a place to actually keep one in or around New Braunfels, TX… not even a hail shed. It’s ridiculous.

[@BlueSkyFlight]

I've heard the same thing from some friends around Florida recently. Seems like hangar space is really at a premium lately. Yeah, I've flown some pretty ugly rentals over the years. Always wondered why the owners didn't do at least some basic updates to them... Thanks very much for watching!

[@SICDavid]

Nice work. I’m new to aviation and working on my check-ride. Will be purchasing a Piper as my first aircraft. How much should I budget to do the same thing you did to a Piper 180? Could you give your audience a high, medium, and low budget number? Big thanks and you have a beautiful aircraft.

[@BlueSkyFlight]

I’ll provide a link to a video where I break down the cost of my renovation. I mentioned in it the my cost would have been 1000 less if I did not do leather on the seats. The video description will also have a link to the Airtex website. You can look up prices for materials specific to a 180 there. Hope that helps! Thank for watching. What's the Cost for a New Interior in a Piper Arrow airplane kzbin.info/www/bejne/nJXcm2eshrWChq8

[@SICDavid]

@@BlueSkyFlight Thanks so much! You got me all jazzed up to purchase and pimp my ride!

[@rodmanser7573]

I forgot, what did you end up doing with that plywood from the factory in the rear floor? How much did it weigh? I think I recommended replacing with a Gillfab composite sandwich flooring from - or was it a sound dampener issue? Also what did you fly for a living? sorry to be so forgetful

[@BlueSkyFlight]

I replaced it by making a new one. Same wood same weight, just new… see the link below. I’ve flown the A320, 757, 767, 737, and the EMB-145. Make a New Seat Bench for your Piper Arrow Interior kzbin.info/www/bejne/fpy2kpeDnLaqp5I

[@rodmanser7573]

@@BlueSkyFlight curious what was the change OEW and CG when you finished - or did i miss it in the cost video?

[@DaltonDunlap-t8j]

Great Job on the interior! How long overall did it take you to do this? I have the remainder of my interior for my 1973 arrow coming in from airtex in 2 weeks.

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Overall the project was about 3 months. I usually worked 4-5 hours in a day, 3-4 days a week to get the aircraft cleaned out and stripped down. Soundproofing was a one day install. Headliner was done over 2 days. Carpet was a 2 day install, but could be done in one. Wall panels took a couple days. Seats, one day for stripping, cleaning and repainting. Seat webbing and re-upholstery could be done in a day, but I think I spent 2 . I think a lot of this can be done faster, but I just took my time. I didn't want it to feel like a chore. So I worked on it when I felt like it, and when I was tired or not enjoying it, I stopped. Repairing, refinishing and repainting all of the interior trim can take a lot of time, but I worked on that stuff at home in the garage while I was waiting for the new stuff from Airtex. Let me know how it all turns out - Thanks for watching!

[@bencoyle7555]

Wow looks very nice. I just bought a 2003 Arrow III as a short trip aircraft. At the moment she’s getting some avionics upgrades done by Sarasota Avionics. The aircraft’s interior isn’t terrible, but it’s not exactly in great shape either. It’s the original cloth factory interior, which is pretty nice and relatively comfortable but I just like leather a lot more than cloth. I haven’t decided if I’m going to do just the seats or the entire interior (seats, headliner, door panels, floor liner, and walls). I really like the colors you did on yours. Who did your refurbishment and how long did it take them from start to finish? And would you recommend them?Avionics should be installed within the next week or two. I’d like to get the interior refurbished right after. LOVED the video sir! Very helpful, you just got 1 more sub!

[@BlueSkyFlight]

I did the interior myself using supplies from Airtex interiors. There’s a video for each step in the process. It’s a bit of work but something just about anyone can do. Their business is mostly shipping kits like that but I think they also do installations. It will run about 6k for full interior parts kit. If you really want someone else to do the work with a really high end result, these guys appear to do incredible work kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4GceqKKmtGtgJYsi=62uwq9cAr4CRnKsd Not sure what they charge but I’m sure it’s not cheap. Let me know what you think of Sarasota Avionics, and which location you used. Thinking about getting some work done.

[@bencoyle7555]

I just got my plane back home a few days ago. The project has been done for almost a week but I decided to stay in Sarasota for 2 days after. In those 2 days they walked me through everything they did, as well as any complications they had. Answered every single one of my MANY questions, did 3 1 hour test flights where they showed me how to work everything, did all the paperwork, looked over all the STC’s, updated the logbooks, and thats not anywhere near the best part. Before they removed the old avionics, they realized that the annual inspection was due soon and went ahead and took it to their maintenance department and they did the inspection themselves FOR FREE! Im not sure how familiar you are to the avionics upgrade process. But it can be a huge hassle and can cause A LOT of stress. However, with Sarasota the entire process was just incredibly easy and 100% worry free. Their communication, quality, effort, and customer service skills were all out of this world! If your thinking about getting any kind of avionics work done, (big or small) I HIGHLY recommend going with Sarasota. Not sure what kind of budget you have but I made it very clear from the start that I don’t want to go over $55k for the entire process. Now in my experience, when you tell an avionics shop something like that they’ll go way over your budget. But Sarasota was the complete opposite, they did everything I wanted and kept it way under my budget. As for the location, I just went to their main location/HQ at KSRQ. If you’d like a list of everything I got done then let me know and I’ll be happy to share with you. I’m now looking at getting the interior refurbished and the exterior repainted asap. I’ll take a look at the place you recommended. I appriciate the suggestions sir! Thanks!

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Thanks for all of that detailed feedback. Sounds like a great operation they have there. Would love to see what you had done. Shoot me an email with some pics and details and also let me know what you end up doing with the interior. [e-mail]

[@firemedic3087]

What were your final color and material choices? I’ve watched all of your videos but I can’t remember where you talked about them.

[@BlueSkyFlight]

The seats are “coal” leather (black) the walls are vinyl in Coal and Dove (a light grey). Carpet is Flint and headliner is Ivory vinyl.

[@firemedic3087]

Thank you so much. I actually just ordered the complete set for my Turbo Arrow III at Oshkosh, but I haven’t picked my colors yet. How do you find the temperature of the darker seats when getting in the plane after its been outside? I’m sorry I missed you at the show.

[@firemedic3087]

Also, how do you like the McCauley 3 blade Prop?

[@BlueSkyFlight]

I wondered about the temperature thing as well, but so far has not been an issue. I think the added UV protection from the new windows may be helping, but so far no issues with the black seats being hot or anything like that.

[@BlueSkyFlight]

The prop was there when I bought it so I don't really have a comparison for you. Obviously I love the look of it. As for performance, I don't really know that it makes that much of a difference on a 200hp engine.

[@RichardWaltman-s7k]

How hard was it to do the headliner

[@BlueSkyFlight]

Really not nearly as bad as I thought. If you haven't seen it check out that video here. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qoPUeIakoM2kd5I That's the headliner install. I went kind of slow with it to make sure I had it oriented right and all that, but once you get it started it goes fairly smooth. Feel free to reach out if you have specific questions.