MD-80 Project Shots 1

[Chaser]

My first shots of the MD-80 cockpit being developed. Obviously there is very little to say "Wow, this is going to be a fun project", but it is at least a start!!

[Anderson/SBSP]

Very good!!

[David Withers]

loads of cheap good parts available but.

if md 80 is your bag..you could build an amazing trainer due to whats available.

kinda like 727 builds.

this is one sim build to watch!

[Stijn]

Really like this project! cant wait for more update's! really nice

Stijn

[Chaser]

It will certainly be a challenge. The MD-80 rudder assembly will probably be the hardest component of all, as unlike Boeing cockpits, the rudders are actually at around a 10 degree downward angle, and additionally the parking brake (part of the tiller assembly) is connected to the rudder toe brakes (I think I know how to model this).

Additionally, there are many odd angles, structures that are not present in the Boeing cockpit, and the MD-80 is almost entirely overlooked in the flight sim realm. Parts are exceptionally cheap, very easy to come by, but again, conversion to simulation will require a bit more. Fortunately, I've teamed up with VerticalLimit (Danish MD-80 project), and we are going to be using one website to prevent dilution of such already scarce information and assist future builders.

Jon

[verticallimit]

Hi Jon

It's nice equipment you've got there.

Have you nothing new about your TQ.

I soon got my TQ made clear to "USB plug and play".
And there is a toturial underway.


I'm really excited to see the development of your project.

[Chaser]

Unfortunately, the owner of the TQ is in the hospital and it does not sound as if he will be returning from the hospital. The sellers wife is VERY honest, and I have considered flying down to AZ to pick up a rental vehicle and driving back with the TQ so that she is not left with 1 more hard to sell item and can receive more money for it than they'd receive in the scrapyard. Even though it's more expensive, it's a known quality and a known reputable seller so I don't mind helping out.
Jon

[Chaser]

Received the Performance Management System (PMS) panel, one of the four footrests (listed as RH side, but is obviously for the left foot, so I'm thinking probably the f/o LH footrest. Awaiting a friend getting his IPC access so I can confirm). Additionally received a glareshield. I have also received the electronic checklist, but forgot to take it home this weekend, so I'll have to make a second post as well. Also en route are a pair of control yokes, a SELCAL panel, an ACARS panel (actually off a DC-10, but identical to the MD-80), and may have a couple other things...we'll see.

The owner of the throttle quadrant did pass away, but it sounds like the wife is going to be resuming the business after a standard grieving period (perfectly fine), so I'll be holding my fingers crossed to get that and modify it to a MD-80 panel. In the meantime, I'm holding back and doing my best to maintain a respectful distance without letting her think that I'm no longer interested.
Jon

[Chaser]

Finally got the control columns, the ACARS panel, and a few other things...it's starting to look like a cockpit at last. Once I acquire a throttle quadrant and a new table saw, then I will begin work on changing from a collection of "random crap" in the attic, to a true cockpit project.

[lasthespa]

Unfortunately, the owner of the TQ is in the hospital and it does not sound as if he will be returning from the hospital. The sellers wife is VERY honest, and I have considered flying down to AZ to pick up a rental vehicle and driving back with the TQ so that she is not left with 1 more hard to sell item and can receive more money for it than they'd receive in the scrapyard. Even though it's more expensive, it's a known quality and a known reputable seller so I don't mind helping out.
Jon

Finally got the control columns, the ACARS panel, and a few other things...it's starting to look like a cockpit at last. Once I acquire a throttle quadrant and a new table saw, then I will begin work on changing from a collection of "random crap" in the attic, to a true cockpit project.