G’day everyone!
We’re happy to release the F6F-5 Hellcat Update 1.1.0 for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020. This update introduces automatic mixture control with Auto Lean and Auto Rich modes, matching the real F6F's engine management. We've also refined the flight model with improved stall behaviour, sharper control response, and significantly upgraded trim effectiveness. Under the hood, the R-2800 now features fully implemented engine performance tables and retuned supercharger boost ratios for more realistic power delivery across all altitudes.
For instructions on how to update your aircraft, please read through our installation guide.
New Features
- Automatic Mixture Control — The mixture lever now features realistic Auto Lean and Auto Rich modes. Full Rich has been rendered inoperative, matching the real F6F's design. Fuel consumption now varies realistically with mixture setting and altitude.
Flight Model Improvements
- Stall Behaviour — Improved stall characteristics with smoother airflow detachment and reattachment, and more predictable aileron response near the stall. The aircraft now gives clearer pre-stall warnings through the controls.
- Control Surface Response — Noticeably more responsive elevator and ailerons for crisper pitch and roll control. Rudder authority has been rebalanced for more natural coordinated turns.
- Lateral Stability — Refined roll, pitch, and yaw stability for a more planted, confident feel in all flight regimes. Removed excessive virtual dihedral effect that made the aircraft feel artificially stable at times.
- Trim System — Significantly improved aileron and rudder trim effectiveness. Trim now works much better across the flight envelope, reducing control forces during long cruise legs.
Engine & Performance Improvements
- Engine Performance Tables — Fully implemented and tuned engine mechanical efficiency, friction, and manifold efficiency tables based on real R-2800 data. Power output now matches historical performance figures across all RPM ranges and power settings.
- Supercharger Tuning — Refined supercharger boost ratios across all three altitude gears for more realistic manifold pressure behaviour at medium and high altitude.
- Propeller Roll Effect — Reduced excessive propeller-induced roll moment for smoother, more natural handling.
- Gyroscopic Precession — Fine-tuned the radial engine's gyroscopic precession effects on pitch and yaw for more authentic handling characteristics, especially during power changes and steep manoeuvres.
Update Availability
The update will be available to 2020 & 2024 Marketplace users soon!
We hope you enjoy the update, and thanks all for your support!
- The FlyingIron Team
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