IMHO the fsdzl049a_v1.zip Constellation is one of the exceptional contributions to Flightsim. Please do not think that I mean to imply anything negative, but the following problem has developed for me.When flying a programmed flight plan, in descents from for example FL240, intermittently all four engines stall at various altitudes in the descent. Sometimes I am successful in restarting them. At other times, when I click on the start switch, I will suddenly get a shift in the display and FS9 freezes up, with the only recovery to be restarting FS9.I have tried to be careful to use the "Mixture Set Best" provisions as instructed in the manual along with the Manifold Pressure and RPM procedures recommended. I have alternately made settings manually to see that the mixture control is constantly adjusted to peak BMEP settings, along with anything else I can think of, and I still loose engines. Ironically, I tried simply starting out from my destination airport, slewing to altitude, then making a descent back into the airport and did not have the problem. Seems only to occur in a flight plan of some distance.Some weeks ago I had a total computer crash and had to start over and really don't remember having this problem before the crash. I don't know if I have forgotten something critical and am overlooking it in the documentation or there is something wrong in my new installation. If you have been at it for a time with this hobby and want to see what you have collected, this IS NOT a method I recommend. It has taken weeks to recover everything (I think). It will give you an appreciation of many of the contributors. The only thing I lost completely is the Beachcraft 1900 from PMDG thanks to their "NEW" policies that are supposed to make it easier on me, and my apparent failure to make backups. If I didn't purchase an extended plan (Which I am not sure was even available when I made the purchase), no future recovery downloads are permitted. Flight One, Dreamfleet, PSS, FSD, Eaglesoft, LDS and everybody else had a much more friendly recovery procedure. I have no idea how I lost my download, but apparently failed to make a backup of this single bird. I will be sure to remember this the next time I deal with PMDG. Leaves something to be desired in my book, but it was my error to be sure everything was backed up. I will be absolutely sure I immediately backup everything concerned the next time I purchase from PMDG (and everybody else, although it proved unnecessary for them).Anybody have any ideas relative to my engine out problem with the Constellation?Thanks:RTH1585368CFI

Thanks to Tom Gibson, I believe the problem may be solved.Tom reminded me of a fix: http://fsdzigns.com/Forum/viewtopic.php?t=252So far, this seems to have done away with all problems relative to this post. I even intentially shut down the engines during descent, feathered the props, and was able to restart with no problem. Engines restart themselves when you give them some fuel with the props still turning. Even with a totally rich mixture, although there is an obvious reduction in power as would be expected, the engines keep running now.Mitch London also was kind enough to suggest changing:auto_ignition= 0 to auto_ignition= 1.So far I have not found this to be necessary, but will sure keep it in mind for future possibilities.Folks: If you don't have this bird, you are missing something IMHO. There are multiple dandy repaints, and this is one of the first old 4 engine recips that crossed the pond (at least commercially). For we who are impatient, she flies flawlessly X16 as well.Happy flying:RTH1585368CFI

I would like to try this airplane, I've always loved Connies but I was waiting for the VC they promised. Did it ever come out or do you know the status of the VC project? Thanks

Sorry, but I have no idea. I am afraid I am not into VC's at all and have never given it a thought for this plane. As an old CFI I am much more interested in functionality than eye candy, and IMHO the 2D panel for this bird is excellent in that department, particularly for freeware.Best of luck in finding what strikes your fancy.RTH

Though they often get slated over their planes Abacus do a very good Connie. It's under their new Platinum collection.

Hi,The next version with a VC has been delayed, but is still being worked on.Hope this helps,--Tom GibsonCal Classic Propliner Page: http://www.calclassic.comFreeflight Design Shop: http://www.freeflightdesign.comDrop by! ___x_x_(")_x_x___