Hi Paul.. got your PM.
Here's what I did.... using Thrustmaster Warthog.
I placed the downloaded file "DCS FC3 F-15C.fcf" in C:\Program Files (x86)\Thrustmaster\TARGET\Projects
...then started TARGET command center. The file is now listed in stock profiles. Clicked RUN and it worked 100%.
Sorry I can't help you if you still have problems with the stick etc.