Project 747 Reality

[visualchaosfx]

After thinking about this for a few days I have decided to build a 1 seat 747 simulator because I'm gonna be the only one using it and because of the limited space I'm going to be putting this in.

Objectives:

1. Build my own MIP (Design Stage)
2. Either build an MCP or buy one. Haven't decided at this point
3. CDU to be purchased at PMDG way down the road lol.
4. Overhead panel (See question below)

Is there any other place that has a 747 overhead panel thats cheaper? I've looked at the one at Flightdeck Solutions and its $999.00 for just the panel itself. Hardware optional. Its not a bad price I guess but I was just curious if any other place has one cheaper with or without the hardware.

[AndyT]

Ok, I'm a real life GA pilot and I built my sim as a GA plane. I built my own panel and I'm very glad I did. Even if it does not have the spit and polish of a pre-made panel, I like it just that much better. Each and every drop of sweat and frustration only adds to the value of it.

But, I should like to give you a peice of advice before you get crazy with it. Design your MIP in your CAD program or whatever it is you are using, and then build it out of cardboard. You can get empty refridgerator boxes from appliance stores and they are PERFECT for testing your designs.

Cut the panel out of the cardboard and mount it in your frame and play with it. Imagine you are flying and play. Note how much clearance you have behind each cut-out. Is that set of switches too far away? Use the cardboard to get your design kinks worked out BEFORE you invest time and money in a metal or wood solution.

[visualchaosfx]

Yep, I plan on doing the cardboard setup first. Thanks for the tip though.

[AndyT]

Where in Michigan do you live? I used to live in Howell for a number of years, now my wife and I are back home in Hawaii.

[visualchaosfx]

Where in Michigan do you live? I used to live in Howell for a number of years.

I live in Cheboygan County. About 29 miles from the Mackinaw Bridge.

Now my wife and I are back home in Hawaii.

Lucky you! We just got plastered with wet snow and high winds late Thursday night. So you've seen Duane "Dog" Chapman locally then?

[AndyT]

Yeah, you can see him crusing the island looking for his next target.

I so do NOT miss the snow! As soon as someone invents warm snow, I'll be down for it!

[visualchaosfx]

Yeah, you can see him crusing the island looking for his next target.

I so do NOT miss the snow! As soon as someone invents warm snow, I'll be down for it!

Shoot there's warm snow right now. Its 30 degrees outside. Personally I like the fluffy snow. Its alot easier on the snowblower lol.

[AndyT]

Oh well. I'll just suffer along here in paradise.

[visualchaosfx]

Oh well. I'll just suffer along here in paradise.

Yeah yeah yeah. You just had to rub it in didn't ya lol