rec.autos.simulators

by **Dari** » Thu, 11 Mar 2004 04:28:52

Hey guys. My Thrustmaster Force Feedback recently locked while playing. I
opened it up to find a *** belt that seems to have worn out and tore, so
I'm upgrading. It still works, but without forcefeedback, its like driving
on ice! I never liked forcefeedback but once I started playing/adjusting it,
I can't go back. The difference is amazing.

Maybe someone can answer some of these questions.

1) I liked the feel of the wheel and would want to get the updated Ferrari
one. But does the new one come with gear shifters AND levers for gas/brake
behind the wheel? I can't tell from the 3D view and the description is
ambiguous.

2) If the new one comes with gear and gas/brake paddles, do they work on
separate axis?

3) If the answer to the above two questions is no, what are my options for a
comparable wheel? I don't really have room for gas/brake pedals under my
desk, and I got used to using my hands for gas.

4) How is the Force Feedback GT different?

Thanks for any input.

by **plutonc..** » Thu, 11 Mar 2004 20:06:06

Hi, Dario. My Thrustmaster also died a few weeks ago so I bought the wheel you
are considering: (Enzo Ferrari force feedback)

The answers to your questions are:

Yes, there are two gear shifters and two levers for gas/brakes behind wheel.
But be warned... the "feel" is very different to my old wheel. This is more
flimsy, less... sturdy, I think. looks like a cheaper version.
I think isnt belt driven so maybe less durable.
And wheel is also reduced in dimensions so I found very dificult to grab him
easily.

Yes they can but by default axis arent separate so you need to do some trick each
time you start the PC:
Press both gas/brake levers simultaneously and push the reset button. Ligh will
blink and thats all... separate axis

Dont know. I REALLY wanted a wheel with gas/brake levers so... not much options
right now.

SOrry, dont know aboutnthat wheel.

HAppy raccing!

by **Dari** » Fri, 12 Mar 2004 10:03:03

Thanks for the info.

Do you still have the broken wheel? I might be able to resurrect my current
one. All I need is that belt that connects the wheel to the force feedback
mechanism. Its the black belt with wedges on one side.

I'd be willing to pay for one and for the shipping.

Let me know.

by **plutonc..** » Fri, 12 Mar 2004 22:14:16

Actually Im conserving it since the trouble is mostly on the levers. Some
cracking appeared on the plastic and levers bend without actuating on pot..
I intend to fix it with some adhesive and maybe some bit of carbon fiber. But in
the while Im with the new wheel.

Sorry, mate.
?Are you sure you cannot grab a belt from Trhustmaster?

Sometime ago I asked them about some dirty pots on an old wheel and they sent a
pair free of charge!!

> Thanks for the info.

> > Hi, Dario. My Thrustmaster also died a few weeks ago

> Do you still have the broken wheel? I might be able to resurrect my current
> one. All I need is that belt that connects the wheel to the force feedback
> mechanism. Its the black belt with wedges on one side.

> I'd be willing to pay for one and for the shipping.

> Let me know.

by **Dari** » Sat, 13 Mar 2004 10:09:06

Hmm, I'll try to email them, or contact them otherwise. I looked at their
site but the choice of repair kits they had was pretty bare.

Thanks for the help! I really appreciate it.