It is hard to argue with anyone at Van’s Aircraft about the products they sell. After all, they provide the most awesome and affordable aircraft kit in the world, with products to match, at an excellent value.  But, as RV builders ourselves, we have always believed there are a few areas which could use some improvements.  Of course, the panel was one of them, but another one is the complete control of air in the cabin, be it to improve ventilation or minimize heat loss.

It is no surprise to any of us building RVs the stories on the amount of unwanted air that tends to find its way into the cockpit. (If you want to read an excellent article into the cause and effect of keeping the weather out of the cockpit, read Sam Buchanan’s article by clicking here).   Not helping the ventilation issue are Van’s inefficient plastic ventilators, but at a price of $35.00 for the pair, what’s a little air in the cabin, right? WRONG!   If you live anywhere north of Florida, or consistently fly at high altitudes, you know it can get very cold in a hurry. Trying to add more heat in the cabin without stopping air intrusion is a waste of time and money. This is where we think we can help with these new oversized, but sealable, aluminum vents.

These vents were developed as a direct replacement to Van’s vents, and here are some the features:

Eyeball Vent. Large opening provides very effective cooling in warmer climates. Weigh only 5.5oz each. Dimensions: 3" square, 2-5/8" mounting hole pattern (same as the plastic vents). 1-5/8" opening. Precisely CNC machined, 6061-T6 aluminum. Seals well when closed, which is important in cold climates. Available in clear or black anodize finish - Our black anodized vents are have a black plastic flange to avoid scratching the anodize from metal to metal contact. Exact match to our "Pre-Drilled" Sub-Panel option for our "Standard" panel or "XL".

The vents are priced at $245.00 for the pair, and there are no additional shipping charges for the vents when you order them with a Modular Panel Kit; otherwise, there is $10.00 shipping charge.

Before you think these vents are unreasonably priced, check the price other aviation supply companies are selling the smaller types.  Also, think of the cost and weight penalty of adding an additional heat muff, or beefier insulation, in your airplane.  These vents will pay for themselves in no time and we think they look awesome too.

After spending years building your bird, as well as spent thousands of $$$ worth of instruments and avionics for your panel, wouldn't you want everything in it to be top notch?