Sourcing aircraft info

[Guest Paul_S]

Where do people find all the detailed info on aircraft so that they can model them?For instance where does PMDG source their info?Where do they get Pilot's Operating Handbooks from so that they can model the aircraft systems?Where do they get diagrams and dimensions so that they can create the 3D model?I've found that the Net is a poor source of information for most types of aircraft especially if they are very modern.Paul

[Guest jlwoodward]

The major simulation websites such as Avsim, Simviation, and Flightsim may have links that will lead you to 3-views. There are websites devoted to specific aircraft (Seabee, Ercoupe, etc.) but I for one am not very good at finding them. It seems like it is a crap-shoot to get the right search words. There is a company something like Essco that sells reprints of manuals, parts books, and poh's.John Woodward

[Guest FelixFFDS]

You're right, of course, in that the vast majority of the scale plans and drawings available for free downloads are of "vintage" airplanes or modern military aircraft.As to aircraft data - operating limits, etc. - one source is the FAA's own site, http://www.airweb.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_G...me?OpenFrameSetthat lets you search for type data certificate sheet. (TDCS). You can get these for airplanes, engines, and propellors....And when you get right down to it, it is not uncommon for someone to lay out cash to buy reference books, etc.Felix/FFDSPegasus Aviation Design

[Guest Paul_S]

Thanks Felix that FAA data helps a bit.I suppose the only proper way to get info is to contact the manufacturer directly and buy a replacement POH.It can get expensive when you want info on several aircraft.Paul

[Guest Ron Freimuth]

>Thanks Felix that FAA data helps a bit.>>I suppose the only proper way to get info is to contact the>manufacturer directly and buy a replacement POH.>It can get expensive when you want info on several aircraft.>Paul Again, Essco sells a lot of PoH's for $30 or so. They even have some old WWII AC manuals. And, manuals for some of the jet transports at $50 or so. Those with contacts often have airline employees who copy stuff on the sly. ;) 10 scans are generally enough, not the complete manuals. There is also data on a variety of jet transports at Herve' Sors FS site. Ron

[Guest Paul_S]

Well I'm looking for a POH for a Bombardier Global Express (BD-700) or a Gulfstream G550.Essco don't have either and I'll bet if I buy one from the manufacturers it'll cost me a pretty penny.I would need a whole lot more than just 10 scans. I want to model each an every system and instrument in the aircraft not just a 3D model with a cheesy panel tacked on.Maybe one day when I'm rich ...Paul