Cockpitbuilders.com

Hi Guys,

Having completed my full-scale 737-800 Sim with its Motion Platform, I found myself looking around for a new Sim Project.

Scott had introduced me to DCS and its F/A-18C aircraft, so I thought it would be fun to build up an F-18 Sim to sit along side my 737 Sim.  Well...  That's what I did.

I chose the Next-Level Military Boeing seat setup as the base structure.  I populated it with WinWing HOTAS Throttle and Stick.  I'm using the ThrustMaster TPR Rudders.  I decided to add WinWing's F-18 Instrument Display setup to add a bit more "tactile" immersion.  For the main Display/Switch Modules. I am using a triple screen monitor setup, with three LG 48" OLED Evo monitors in 4K mode @ 60 Hz. 

The Sim software is Digital Combat Simulator (DCS), which is free.  I purchased three aircraft...  The F/A-18C; the A-10 Warthog; and the AH-64A helicopter.

I'm running all this on a 11th Generation i9 11900K 3.5GHz PC with Windows 11.  My graphics GPU is an RTX 3090, talking to the monitors 60Hz via Display Port.  The speed of this setup allows for smooth display performance.

For moving around the cockpit, I use TrackIR-5.  I tried a VR Headset initially, but it instantly made me sick -- a common issue for some people with VR in a flight sim.  The TrackIR solution however is easy to use and is working fine.

I am using a Logitech Speakers/Woofer Gaming System fed by the computer's sound interface.  I also use a ButtKicker Gaming Plus to add cockpit vibrations.  The Transducer is mounted to the bottom of the seat.  This does a nice job of adding a bit to Sim immersion.

At this point, I am learning the basics of  flying the F-18C.  I have learned how to start from  cold & dark, and perform a proper shut-down.  I am learning the importance of AutoPilot functions.  I can successfully land the F-18 on a Field and on an Aircraft Carrier, catching the "third wire".  This requires strict attention to flying  "On Speed" during Approach operations.  In addition, I am having some fun getting familiar with Guns and Missiles in Air-to-Ground mode.  Overall...  I am just scratching the surface in understand the F/A-18C complex operations, and it is clear that I have a steep learning curve ahead of me.  That said, it's been a great deal of fun thus far.

I have ordered a VIRPIL Collective and Apache Grip for helicopter operations (currently backordered).  Years ago when I worked on assignment in Japan, I learned how to fly a Eurocopter AS-355 Jet helicopter (photo below).  After I returned to the USA, I got my Helicopter rating in an R-22.  After which, I built my own 2-Place Rotorway 162-F helicopter.  I'm now looking forward to flying the Apache helicopter when I get the Collective installed on the Combat Sim.

Anyway...  That's the setup for my new Sim.  Thus far, I have about $7K invested in this Sim Project.

Mike

That's my other project too, Mike.
I'm building openhornet cockpit...  what an awesome project that is.  My problem now is space.  my 737 is taking up 30 square feet of space and that doesn't leave much room for my F18.  I really don't want to get rid of the pool table!

Your setup looks great though.

Warren

Hi Warren,

Good to hear you are also building an F-18 Sim.  Fortunately, an F-18 Sim doesn't take up too much floor space.   Post photos if you have a chance... Best wishes!

Mike