I own a DLX #37 and I am really impressed with the performance, reliability and service from Rocket Engineering. Being 6'2" and 200 pounds, obviously crawling into the pilots seat is a battle. Once seated with the head set on, the top of my head was a quarter ince from the ceiling and my knees were an inch from the panel. I learned to live with Piper's poor planning but didn't like it.
I followed up on many leads picked up on the DLX Message Board, however I found the pricing totally out of reason. I called one firm thinking they could get me more room for about $4400.00 for both seats only to find out that it was $4400.00 for both front seats. They must wish to recap the total STC cost in the first year.
Due to the fact that my aircraft has 1350 HRS TT, the leather was like new except for the sewn in sheepskin inserts. Through our travels I sat in a DLX that fit me. I called the upholsterer that did the job and he said he could get me an extra 1 1/2 inches in head room and an extra 1 1/2 inches in leg room without giving up comfort.
For $1560.00 Mike Powell located at Love Field in Prescott, AZ did the job, with included new silver gray sheepskins using the same leather. He re-did the seats with Temper Foam conform foam. After sitting in the new seats for about 10 minutes, I have about 2 inches more headroom and an additional 1 1/2 inches of leg room. We have flown back to Florida and the seats are more comfortable than before with room to spare at a reasonable price. Mike works as a team with his wife, Denise, and they really do a great job. Call Powell Aircraft Interiors at 928-778-7827.
I have seen their work when they do a complete re-upholstery job and it is really good.
We had friends to visit in Phoenix however a side trip to Sedona was great.
--Ted Isaacson