rec.autos.simulators

Seeing a post here stating that Sam's Club had the Thrustmaster GP1 wheel
for $50, I decided to finally go and get one (already have CH Pro Pedals,
been using joystick for steering for years). I see the usual TM warning that
a speed-sensitive adapter card being suggested.  But I've had zero problems
with my MB's port.  I hook it up and note that in both ICR2 and GP2 that the
return-to-center, and on-center feel of the wheel is less than stellar. In
most cases, I may have to apply some pressure to keep the car running
straight.  That seems to be the only problem.  No probs getting it working
with my pedals.  Just wanted to know what long term users of the wheel
think.  Knowing TM products, does it drift with time?  Do the pots last?  Is
it potentially going to be more headache than it is worth (in time and
effort, not the few $)?

I have had my Thrustmaster T2 for a year now, and am pleased with it.  My
pot started acting up about 3 months ago, so I ordered a replacement, but
realized that spraying the current pot with a little TV Tuner Cleaner works
better (in most cases) than putting in a whole new one.  (Thrustmaster sent
me three replacement pots anyway, which I'm*** on to just in case).
My gas pedal spring is just starting to give out, but you don't have TM
pedals, so I guess you won't have to worry about that.  I haven't tried the
GP1 yet, but if it's built like the T2, I'm sure you'll be satisfied with
the money you spent.

--
Brian Fox

Geocities' MotorCity Community Leader
Get your own free homepage at http://www.racesimcentral.net/

The Fox Den:  Nascar 1 and 2, ICR2, GP2 and my Streetrod.
http://www.racesimcentral.net/
http://www.racesimcentral.net/

%    I have a GP1 wheel.  I've had it for about 5 months.  I works
% great.   Just recently
% while playing ICR2 or GP2,  I've noticed that the car will jerk to one
% side
% without any steering input.  I'ts doesn't really happen enough to upset
% me,  but it's
% getting close.  I really use mine alot  though.  I'd say that my 5
% months of use
% probally equals out to a year of use for someone else.  I also Find
% that these devices
% usually last just a Couple of years anyway.  It all depends on how often
% you use it.

Get some "Tuner/Switch" cleaner/lubricant at an electronics supply store
(or your nearest Radio Shack).  Spray it into the steering wheel pot and
work it in.  This should clear up this little glitch.  If this doesn't
work, you have wore out your pot and should contact Thrustmaster for a
replacement.  I find that regular cleaning and lubricating will make the
pots live longer and provide excellent control.

THRUSTMASTER CONTACT INFORMATION

CUSTOMER SUPPORT                        SERVICE&REPAIR
(503)615-3201 phone                     (503)615-3202 phone
(503)615-3300 fax                       (503)615-3300 fax

GENERAL CONTACT INFO
ThrustMaster, Inc.
7175 NW Evergreen Pkwy. #400
Hillsboro, OR  97124
(503)615-3200 phone
(503)615-3300 fax

For complete European support contact refer to:
http://www.thrustmaster.com/support/europe.htm

--
**************************** Michael E. Carver *************************
     Upside out, or inside down...False alarm the only game in town.

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R:

We use gp1's exclusively. All you need is a good lube job on the pots and they
should last for years.

Q.B.M.