Throttle change from f16 to f18/a10

[BaronVonVaderham]

Hey guys,

 I’m planning on getting an Orion 2 hotas, specifically the Orion2 HOTAS F-16 Viper（SPRING&SHAKE). I believe the throttle assembly is pretty much the same as the f18 version, except for the f16 throttle handle and guide vs split throttle assembly. 
 

It looks to me like the f16 version is using the same two throttle levers, but binds them together. In most cases (normal operations) you don’t need separate throttle control on dual engine configuration, soo I was hoping to use the same throttle assembly for dual engine aircraft as well. Did anyone know if this is possible and how to set that up? I can imagine that assigning throttle levers by moving them is tricky, as you’ll get a race condition between the two levers. But maybe there’sa Manuel way of assigning the levers?

 Alternatively (but I hope not), I could change over between the f16 handle or an f18 throttle handle. Worst comes to worst I would need two different assemblies which I hope to avoid. 

[Phantom711]

Ok let`s look at the options you mentioned:

 

1. Using th F-16 throttle as a 2 engine throttle:

As you mentioned, the F-16 handle is attached to both levers. It would require some DIY changes on the hardware to achieve that. Would the actual throttle still be "stable"? How would you actually grab the other "barebone" throttle lever?

I would rule that option out to be honest...

 

2. Buying one Orion 2 and both throttle handles:

Possible. However, changing the throttle handles is not a very quick process. Especially that metall arc for the F-16 detent requires some tinkering and I don`t think you could leave it on there when using the F/A-18 throttle. Changing the handles would not be anything I would wanna do on a regular basis.

 

3. Buying both throttles completely.

Obviously the most convenient option. That`s what I did.

 

Also note, that there is a F-15 throttle handle comming soon...

 

EDIT: well yeah...I am aware of the monetary downside of the "most convenient" option. 

Edited June 24, 2023 by Phantom711

[BaronVonVaderham]

Yeah, I figured the same to be honest.

actually, with option 1 I did not mean modding the grip, but configuring the controls in dcs. I wouldn’t use it as a dual engine control, but just control them simultaneously (ie no independent engine control.). maybe there’s a single engine control option (meaning one control for both engines), I which case it’d be easy to set up.

in any case, I’ll start with the f16 version first, after that I’ll see what I’ll do.

 

[Trigati]

Yeah, I figured the same to be honest.
actually, with option 1 I did not mean modding the grip, but configuring the controls in dcs. I wouldn’t use it as a dual engine control, but just control them simultaneously (ie no independent engine control.). maybe there’s a single engine control option (meaning one control for both engines), I which case it’d be easy to set up.
in any case, I’ll start with the f16 version first, after that I’ll see what I’ll do.
 

Both the Hornet and Tomcat do have an option for single axis to control both engines…I guess specifically for those with only one throttle axis.


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[rob10]

On 6/24/2023 at 11:29 AM, Phantom711 said:

2. Buying one Orion 2 and both throttle handles:

Possible. However, changing the throttle handles is not a very quick process. Especially that metall arc for the F-16 detent requires some tinkering and I don`t think you could leave it on there when using the F/A-18 throttle. Changing the handles would not be anything I would wanna do on a regular basis.

Looks like you figured out a plan anyway, but I will 2nd this comment for anyone else looking at this.  I have both the F-16 and F-16 throttle grips and Phantom711 is correct that you need to remove the F-16 detent frame to be able to install/use the F-18 grip.