Building your own private flight simulator sure is a lot of fun and can be a rewarding hobby. Of course, I you happen to be an experienced engineer and/or have access to fancy stuff like CNC routers, laser cutters and 3D printers, your simpit is likely going to be indiscernible from the real cockpit.
I believe however, that it IS possible to build a decent simulator/cockpit without specialized tools and skills. These tutorials therefore are intended to work with ordinary tools only.
There is a lot of useful information on the internet on how to build your very own flight simulator, one very good source for the F-18 Hornet obviously beeing www.hornetpits.org, with its friendly and always helpful members! Yet I still found it hard to obtain certain information, which left me with a lot of trial and error until I got some parts right. To help other simpit builders out a little, I'll try and provide some information here on how I made certain items and parts.
Please note: None of this information claims to be the best or most comprehensive method and certainly not the only possible way of getting something done - it's just the way it worked out for me . The same applies to referenced sources of supply or specific brands, the companies (unfortunately) don't pay me for doing so - their parts just worked out fine for my build.
Some tutorials are still in development right now. If you want me to share information on any specific topic, let me know! Post a question or send me an email: bergison@simpit.info.
Making custom caps for switches
Working time approx. 20 min.
I found it difficult (and expensive) to source realistic looking caps for switches like the ones used in the Hornet, so I decided to make them myself.
Interfacing hardware with your simulator
Working time from 5 min. to years, depending on your project...
Do you want to use real buttons, switches, potentiometers and rotary encoders with your simulator? Here is how to do make it work!
Build a GA ignition/starter switch (video)
Working time approx. 5 hrs.
How to easily build yourself a fully realistic (spring loaded) general aviation ignition/starter switch with only basic tools for under 25 €.