My projected 3-year RV-8A build is stating its 7th year of slow but steady progress (I underestimated real job travel requirements and learning curve reboots). I'm finally getting close - with first flight projected early 2011.

I purchased one of the very first 3500's and had it wired into my panel a couple years ago by John Stark. I realized that early avionics selection was hazardous, but wanted to get the panel installed and other wiring started.

Now I'm in new-product envy - but don't want to recut the panel or rip out all the sensor/cable wiring. What exactly does it take to upgrade to a 4500? What about the projected 5600?

I'm sure this subject has been addressed before, but I'm out of forum search time and am looking for instant gratification (that damned job again).