Spit-Pit for HMD and DCS

[HeadHunter52]

Black cats are good luck...

[Cripple]

Heh heh - I keep telling myself that when he's swinging on my headset lead... :mad:

 

Anyway, I said I wasn't going to post a WIP of the bits I was fiddling about with, but I couldn't resist. 24 hours ago this elevator trim wheel was: a pound-shop funnel, a cheap cookie jar lid, a pack of dowels, the lid from my cod-liver oil tablets, some tape, a tube of superglue, and some Greenstuff (2-part expoxy putty for the non-GW people).

 

Annoyingly enough I've used up all the greenstuff I had, and need more to tidy up the rim and that, but thought I'd spray in black to see how it looked. Aye, I'm happy with that! It's got the knobbly outside and the annoyingly dished interior of the real thing. I know the pill lid is non-authentic, but I reckon the twisty-marks on the top of it will look rather nice when painted white.

 

Oh, and it was all done "by eye" too... I know I *should* have measured the circumference, divided by blah-blah, subtracted, marked out, etc, but I just stuck dowels down about a finger-width apart and trimmed the funnel until it fit. Sometimes it's fun to just wing it without the ruler. :thumbup:

 

 

 

(You'll see the size of what I usually work on lying on my messy work desk too)

[Cripple]

Evening all!

 

Another wee update for you. Busted a nut yesterday getting this lot done and mounted, but the upper frames are now finished and attached. Beginning to actually look the part. :)

 

Sitting in it is rather... eerie. I've left the "floating rib" partial frames off until I fit the seat support, but with them in place it feels very closed in - even without the skin on. Also, when you crane your neck to get a view out through the wee peepholes next to head support you certainly get an impression of what the real thing must have been like. Onwards and upwards.

[Cripple]

Hello again all...

 

Just a quickie for now. Got the coaming supports up, which was a bit tedious (to say the least), and the stringers for frames. The girl is really showing her curves now. :)

 

(At a later date I'll explain *why* I'm building the whole cockpit frame first...)

[RAZBAM_ELMO]

Looking good cripple.

[Cripple]

Just another quick photo update. Got the upper coaming and door done. Making a curved door is... interesting, certainly. :music_whistling:

 

So, *why* am I making the whole cockpit for a simulator? And why am I doing this *before* any instruments or controls?

 

Well, the short and simple answer is because it's as easy as any other way. The spitfire, if you look at pictures of the inside of the cockpit, it isn't like a modern bathtub-with-panels jet. Instead every switch and control is basically hung off part of the aircraft frame. I had two options: a) have the parts I needed on custom stalks and extensions above or below an arbitrary datum, or b) duplicate the fuselage frame. I went with option b).

 

Next stage: front canopy.

[toxaq]

Great update Cripple! Totally agree re the order. I'm looking at going from a desk to P-51 pit and there's no intermediate option :)

[Cripple]

Thanks Toxaq et al. Have you seen the p-51 stuff on shapeways? I reckon this would look *gorgeous* in a P-51 'pit with the right paintjob on it.

http://www.shapeways.com/product/7CNKNEHEK/fuel-tank-selector-usaaf?li=shop-results&optionId=57599183

 

(I'll elaborate on this in due course, but I nearly started on a P-51 myself. However I knew in my heart-of-hearts I'd want a Spitfire when one was released...)

 

Anyway, I haven't seen a right-angle in weeks :mad: and I'm still beavering through the windscreen, but here's a wee teaser in case anyone thinks I've got bored or dropped dead. More thinking and trying rather than actual "work" going on here right now.

[LynxDK]

I can help you if you need something 3D Printed. :)

Im not charging as much as your linked site does.

 

Of course Price depends if you have the 3D file, or i have to design it.

 

But anyway, just letting you know :)

 

And may i say, its a very fine cockpit you are making yourself... love the curves :)

[Cripple]

Thanks, Lynx. That's some nice stuff you have on your page there. I'm afraid that I'm more of a pencil-n-paper man than this 3D printing stuff...:music_whistling:

 

Anyway, more pics. This is the framing essentially done. I still need to get the sliding canopy made but as far as the frame goes... done! :D Now for a quick sand, a skim of filler in places, then the interior green paint on it. Phew.

[Cripple]

"So why make a Spitfire?"

 

Well, it's a long and convoluted story that started when I discovered DCS, and rediscovered flight-simming (I'd dropped out of it due to the lack of a good sim with aircraft that I liked... by "good" I also mean runs-out-of-the-box-without-15-homebrew-patches). As I had recently also become single and needed a project to keep me occupied (preferably manual to help my old arthritic hands) I decided, for about the 5th time in my life, to build a sim-pit. But of what? Here, in reverse order, are the contenders:

 

4) The Huey

Pros: It's the Huey! I like choppers, Apocalypse Now, and cut my simming teeth on the ah-64 (Gunship... for the ZX Spectrum! Ahem). Software available. Pictures and manuals available. Virtual airforce(s). Map and missions on DCS.

Cons: Extremely steep learning curve, both in building and flying, due to specialist heli components. Can't really get a feel for it on an old knackered joystick and no pedals. Parts hard to get in UK - either replica or used. No period map on DCS.

Common sense won out in the end - rejected.

 

3) A-10C

Pros: It's the Warthog - who doesn't like a rotary cannon with wings? HOTAS controls available. DIY plans and assistance available. Large community of builders and flyers. Software available. Survivable airframe. Period map(s) on DCS

Cons: Massive switch count, even for basic flight controls. Specialist switch tops and buttons require purchase/fabrication. Multiple screens. Ground-attack aircraft, and I generally seem to tend towards top-cover/A2A in less -serious games. The manual... now, I know some of you live for this, but the idea of pressing buttons to get AWACS ingress info and the like isn't my idea of fun (I'm more of a zoooooooooooooom-dakka-dakka kinda guy).

Rejected - too modern.

 

2) P-51 Mustang

Pros: Software available. Free software available. Lower switch-count than modern jets. More suited to my play-style - fun to fly? Info and images available. Simple joystick control.

Cons: Paucity of free/cheap scale plans (particularly for cockpit rather than the airframe as a whole). Switch-count still rather high. Specialist switches required. Parts more available on other side of Atlantic. No period map on DCS. Foreign, and not widely known to non-aficionados here. Bubble canopy.

After a lot of swithering it was rejected in favour of another WW2 fighter.

 

1) Spitfire mk IX

(It's worth noting that there was a tough choice between the IX, the XIV, or a 'pit for both. The IX won, mainly as the updates on the XIV from the developers dried up - and I find the IX more aesthetically pleasing both inside and out.)

Pros: It's a SPITFIRE! There's not a male over the age of about 10 in the UK who doesn't appreciate the Spitfire at some level. Hell, even non-aviation people know what you are talking about when you say "I'm building a Spitfire". Got lots of info already on it. Plans available at a reasonable cost. Seems fun, yet also rewarding, to fly. Nice lines, as it will be sitting in a dedicated room. Switches and the like available. Low switch-count. Original or similarly-aged parts available and affordable in UK. No toe-brakes. My accent fits. Kudos Points. Similar flying skills can be picked up on existing sim aircraft (P-51).

Cons: No software available on DCS at present. Wiggly-stick probably harder to make. No period map at present. Entire frame needs built before flight controls etc can be mounted. Some original/replica parts V expensive. No virtual airforce support at present. Build would be entirely DIY, and learn-as-you-go. This will take a loooooooooooong time.

Well, it won out in the end. I'll admit that the P-51 was close contender, mainly as the software is already out there. However a couple of points clinched it for the Spitfire. Firstly, given my decision to use the Rift for the display, I'd be waiting for that anyway so a software delay is not such an issue. Secondly, and I'm not ashamed to admit it, if I'm going to have a large toy plane sitting in my spare room, I want one that people will actually recognise - one that is a feature as well as a personal plaything. Besides, I had Spitfire bedsheets as a child, and I've wanted one ever since. Not having a couple of million kicking about to get a real one this seemed the next best thing...

 

It actually became a simple choice once I asked myself "if you could build one (and only one) sim-pit to fly about in, what aircraft would it be?" There was only one aircraft it could be.

[Raceguy]

Thanks Toxaq et al. Have you seen the p-51 stuff on shapeways? I reckon this would look *gorgeous* in a P-51 'pit with the right paintjob on it.

http://www.shapeways.com/product/7CNKNEHEK/fuel-tank-selector-usaaf?li=shop-results&optionId=57599183

 

(I'll elaborate on this in due course, but I nearly started on a P-51 myself. However I knew in my heart-of-hearts I'd want a Spitfire when one was released...)

 

Anyway, I haven't seen a right-angle in weeks :mad: and I'm still beavering through the windscreen, but here's a wee teaser in case anyone thinks I've got bored or dropped dead. More thinking and trying rather than actual "work" going on here right now.

 

 

Cripple. Thanks for the heads up on the P-51 fuel selector. Mine arrived yesterday and I am impressed with the quality. Now to get it painted and installed in my build.

 

Ed

 

Edited October 17, 2015 by Raceguy

[Cripple]

Excellent! My pleasure. Look forward to seeing pics of that all painted up...

[Cripple]

No pics in this update as it's just tedious fine sanding and filling to get the ply and strip-wood to a nice surface for painting. Maybe it's overkill as it's just the frame, but it would be annoying for it to detract from the finished 'pit.

 

Oh, and I can't stop grinning when I look at (and touch) the work so far. It's a very satisfying wee hobby this, isn't it?

 

(For anyone thinking about start a simpit... Start! You'll learn loads of new skills and have nearly as much fun as you would flying it.)

[Nails]

This is my Hawker Hurricane Mk II, work in progress instrument panel build.

 

I have used some parts from that shapeways site. Auto Boost Cut-Out (pull), Hurricane 8lb Boost Gauge Bezel and Oil/Fuel Pressure Gauges (place holders while I get a working gauge made up).

 

The switches are all genuine, some (like the fuel tank selector switch, and Magnetos are all recycled Hurricane parts).

 

I am using mine for Cliffs of Dover. However, if DCS ever release a Hurricane module, I'm ready!

 

[Cripple]

Nails, that's really nicely done! How di you do the fuel gauge (they are like gold-dust) and the labels?

 

(I've got a wee box full of period switches all ready for the later stages. The only problem is that the old toggle switches are just too addictive not to play with...)

 

I hope DCS do a Hurricane at some point. It's a good basis for all sorts of fun variants too.

[Nails]

Nails, that's really nicely done! How di you do the fuel gauge (they are like gold-dust) and the labels?

 

(I've got a wee box full of period switches all ready for the later stages. The only problem is that the old toggle switches are just too addictive not to play with...)

 

I hope DCS do a Hurricane at some point. It's a good basis for all sorts of fun variants too.

 

Morning,

 

Subtle difference between the Hurricane and Spitfire fuel gauge. The Hurricane had a selector switch for the Port, Centre, Starboard tank. The gauge reading changed to whatever tank was selected. The tank held 30 gallons of fuel.

 

Spitfire fuel gauge. Was marked "Tail on ground", and held 37 gallons of fuel.

 

I made my labels in MS Publisher. Printed them to Photo Glossy paper, and then laminated them.

 

Good luck with the build.

[Cripple]

Still beavering away with the sanding. However I've had my thinking cap on too. Currently I'm considering using this foam underlay from B&Q for skinning her - it's fairly cheap, easy to bend, easy to handle, aluminium on the outside (!), and gridded (which will make the application of the split-peas for rivet heads sooooooooooooooo much easier).

 

Anyway, pics. I'm very happy with how the framework is looking. :)

[LynxDK]

Looking Very nice :)

 

That underlay is not a bad idea.... i dont know how soft that it, but you can get something for caravan tents, also underlay for the floor... that is pretty stiff, you can walk on it without it bending, but very easy to bend with a Little heat.

 

I have made Roleplay armor for my nephew from those Things.

[Raceguy]

Hello everyone

 

I don't want to cut into Cripple's build thread but some have asked to see the P-51 fuel selector when painted so here it is.

 

If there is interest in my Mustang build I will start a new thread.

 

Thanks

Ed

 

[Cripple]

Raceguy - no probs, and that is looking really good! The slight grain works very well with the silver. How did you paint it up?

I'd love to see a full build thread too.

 

LynxDK - Cheers. It's just foam stuff, but the frame takes the weight so it doesn't need to be weight-bearing. Oh, and I'll not be duct-taping it on when I do it properly. :P

[Raceguy]

Thanks Cripple

This was my first time painting a 3D printed item. In reading about the material I found that this was black nylon and will absorb paint. I wanted to keep the rough texture so I sprayed a light coat of Krylon (enamel) flat black paint/primer as a sealer. I let that sit for 2 days.

 

I did not want aluminum paint to run down into the recess and I was concerned using a brush would cause that to happen so I made a “stamp”. I cut a piece of 1/8 inch thick wood into a 1 inch square and glued a small block of wood on the back as a handle.

I brushed a very light coat of Model Master Acrylic Aluminum paint on the wood and lightly pressed it against the selector plate overlapping each time. This left a thin coating which I let dry overnight.

 

The next day I put a few drops of aluminum paint on a scrap of wood. I dipped a brush into the paint and removed most of it by dragging the brush across the scrap. The brush was not “wet” but was not as dry as a typical “dry brush” application. I then touched the brush against the lettering, lifting it vertically each time, not dragging, transferring small amounts of paint at a time. I continued this process until I was happy with the coverage.

 

I hope this helps.

 

Ed

Edited October 27, 2015 by Raceguy

[0414 Wee Neal]

Hi Cripple

very interested in the use of the underlay, I have been trying all sorts for my Hog pit. What thickness is the rubber stuff, B&Q have a few different thickness's? Great thread by the way!

 

Neal

[Cripple]

Bluethorton - Thanks. :) How's that hogpit coming? This is the stuff:

http://www.diy.com/departments/selit-5mm-expanded-polystyrene-laminate-floor-underlay-5m/252020_BQ.prd

 

Raceguy - Interesting technique, and it has worked really well. Looks the business.

[toxaq]

Raceguy, yes, definitely interested in your mustang build! I'm building a few gauges and might attempt a USB HOTAS but otherwise have put a pit on hold.

 

Cripple, missed your link earlier, looks cool, thanks!

 

Raceguy, another way to paint something like that without getting paint into the cracks is to put wax or another similar removable substance into the voids. Then as long as you can wipe the top parts clean you can spray, then remove the wax later with warm water. Just a thought, haven't tried it. Part looks epic!