I have had my MS Sidewinder Precision 2 (never had a force feedback-can't vouch for that type) for more than 10 years and it still works like new. XP recognizes it, so no drivers needed. I did not install any 'profiles' fot it. You (I) would be asking for trouble if I did-avoid profiles). What I have done is to get a USB 10 keypad (Targus brand) and use it for throttle control. I assigned key 6=F1 (cut), key 3=F2 (reduce), Key 9=F3 (increase) and key '*'=F4 (full) plus other keys=other controls such as spoiler ('-'), panel view (2), locked spot view (8), tailhook ('+'), pitch trim (1 & 7), folding wing ('\'), etc. THEN I jamed the throttle control on joy, and centered it ('zero' pos) when I did the XP calibration on the joy. Happy camper here. This joy is no longer sold by MS, but they can be found at Amazon (Used, Good condition). See pic. I won't buy any other joy, no matter what the price is. Not worth the trouble and headaches. The Sidewinder is the way to go.
Chuck B
Napamule
PS: Be sure you see the box AS IT IS in the pic, as there are other MS Sidewinder 'types' out there.