Hello All. Im a newbie here, but joined to continue the T-34C discussion. I agree the sim model is AWESOME! Even better than the ones we are provided by the Navy in the MicroSim simulators (not the actual T-34C sims we use for instrument training though, they are quite a bit more pricey!!). I actually have about 110 hours in the real thing here at Whiting Field and would like to get in touch with someone who can do something about these fixes as I dont have the FSX know-how to accomplish.
First off, as discussed previously, the start sequence is not realistic. The individuals are correct in stating fuel control to the engine for start is governed by the prop condition lever (middle of the tree levers on the left side of the cockpit). The "red pull handle" is actually used in the real plane as a pilot-safe release to secure the fuel via the condition lever. You have to pull it and retard the condition lever to "Fuel Off" to shutdown the engine. Prevents an inadvertent shut-down mid flight or on the ground when messing with the condition lever for ground runup and EP simulations.
In reality, all you need to do to start the engine is to turn the battery on, activate the starter, and introduce fuel by moving the prop condition (the middle) lever to "Fuel On", then secure the starter.
Second, the ignition switch in the real plane is spring loaded to the "ON" position always, its not a 2-position as depicted in the sim. You actually have to hold it down during certain EPs.
Third, the CDI is waaay to touchy to use with a mouse. any way to make the course select knob turn like the FSX King Air?
Fourth, the strobes on the real plane all flash at the same time, not wings, then tail as depicted in the sim.
Fifth, anyway to open the rear cockpit? Maybe a Control E + 2 function?
The sim's torque settings vs airspeeds are also off. In level flight (near sea level, clean config) a 1015 ft-lbs of TQ setting will approximate 190-200 kias depending on the individual plane/engine. Other "gouge settings" used in the real plane are: 750-800 ft-lbs for 170 kias "Fast Cruise", 600-650 ft-lbs for 150 kias "Normal Cruise", and 450-500 ft-lbs for 120 kias (slow cruise). Normal climbs are at 1015 ft-lbs (with engine exhaust bottoms on horizon) at 120 kias. Enroute descents are 300 ft-lbs for 150 kias. Downwind Configurations in the pattern with gear down, flaps up is 500-550 ft-lbs for 100 kias and Landing Approach Configuration on final with gear and flaps down are 600 ft-lbs for 90 kias.
I know its detailed, but if there is anyway to adjust these settings in the sim, it would make for much more realistic training and simming!
As for the prop look during engine-off, it actually "feathers" automatically via spring (to help in case of engine failure in the air). The leading edge of the prop on the ground is actually facing forward, not left and right as depicted in the sim. Dont know if we can fix that without AS's help.
If anyone is interested in the actual publications the Navy issues us to learn to fly the T-34C check out:
https://www.cnatra.navy.mil/pubs/ppub_t34_pri.htm
Specifically the "Contact Flight Training Instruction T-34C" for just an intro to what we do with the plane, power settings, landing and departure patterns, ect. And for the more advanced instrument simmers, check out the "FTI Instruments" pub. All of our standard procedures from a holding pattern to shooting approaches is discussed.
I know these are small details, and it speaks volumes for AlphaSim's homework to depict the T-34C so realistically on the initial release. I love this plane, its a MUST-HAVE addition for any FSX enthusiast. Ill continue to fly it as is, as its a great tool for any student pilot flying the T-34C's here at Whiting Field.
If anyone has any questions, or can help in a config change for the T-34C let me know, Id be glad to provide technical knowledge on the "real-deal".
I like the new direction of Alphasim 
