Virpil MongoosT-50CM2 base: My recommended setup for pilots flying both jets and pilots

[MIghtymoo]

When first receiving the Virpil base I was a little disappointed when trying to get a good setup for the base for both helis and jets (I fly an about equal amounts helicopters and jets). When you fly both helicopters and jets and can not afford two perfectly set up individualt sticks/bases, you need to do some compromises.

Had been running a TM Warthog base with 7.5 cm extension for two years (to get around the hard center issue). The Virpil setup with the same 7.5 cm extension felt OK, but not great.

I decided for fun to test the base with the following setup:

• TM Warthog grip 
• No extension
• Soft springs
• Cosmosim no center cams

When flying helicopters, I loosen the tension 13 full turns from all tightened on both axis. Then the stick still centers well. 
When flying jets I tighten the screws almost all the way. It is close to a "best from both worlds".

CONCLUSION: 
1. The precision and fine control has for me (surprisingly?) been much INCREASED compared to using the extension and this setup is very good for helicopters. Button ergonomics seem to be better with the shorter throws. IMHO the Virpil base has such a smooth and accurate center, that there is no absolute need to an extension for high presision heli flying (and still have a good feel when changing to a jet).

2. Flight feel when flying jets is much improved with the shorter stick and above setup. F-16 did not feel quite right with a long extension.  No more trade-offs and "sloppy stick feel" when flying jets

3. The CM2 base is great as you can change the tension very quickly using a hex screw driver (included). A HUGE selling point if you fly both helis and jets.

I know preferred setup varies greatly form person to person, but do not do like me and think that a longer extension automatically equals a better setup (for heli and jet flying). No extension can be pretty awesome too (at least with this base).

Edited January 10, 2022 by MIghtymoo

[Burt]

Good tips as I’m getting ready to change over TM to CM2 base w/TM viper grip. Is the standard springs kinda stuff and standard cams ?  I’ll be setting it up this weekend and would be a step ahead to change the cams and springs out before I install to mount.

I should of said I will mostly fly the Hornet and Tomcat with this base and a few others jet actually.

Edited January 12, 2022 by Burt

[MIghtymoo]

It is hard to recommend a specific cam and spring. It really depends on what you fly, stick, extensions and most importantly personal preference.

If you also fly heli, I would definately go for "No center cams".

Good luck and report back on your choice!

[Burt]

Very well , Thanks !