P-51D Mustang

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Features

Comes with the built-in P-51D Challenge campaign.

TF-51D

The TF-51D is a two-seater training variant of the P-51D and comes included for free in the DCS World client. While the variant (and in-game model) itself is a two-seater, with room for an instructor and a student, the module does unfortunately not support multi-crew the way the L-39 does.

Functionally, the difference between the P-51D and the TF-51D is simply one of armaments. The TF-51D has none (although some of the cockpit controls remain), nor does it have a holographic sight to aim the non-existing weapons. Between this and the added seat, the TF-51D is ever so slightly lighter and faster than the P-51D, but not in any way that will be noticeable outside of very tightly flown races.

All procedures and checklists for one are applicable to the other — a fact that is further highlighted by how the TF-51D module included in the free client comes with the full P-51D flight manual.

Flying the P-51D

Cockpit overview

Getting into the air

As the P-51D is a full-sim aircraft, the procedure of getting it started does not readily lend itself to a quick checklist — doubly so because it is a fully manual process of getting mechanical machinery started. Like so many other aircraft, it offers the RWinHome quick-start shortcut that runs through the process for you, but outside of that, it is very much a matter of feeling, judging, and listening to the machinery for the exact timing and rhythm needed than about pushing a lot of buttons.

For a good run-though of the start-up (and indeed any other) procedure, consult Chuck's guide linked below. In broad strokes, the process is one of:

• Turning electrics on.
• Setting up the cooling and carburettor.
• Turning fuel pumps and fuel flow on.
• Priming the engine.
• Setting starting propeller settings (max RPM; minimal throttle).
• A rapid succession of operating the engine starter, turning the ignition on, and flipping mixture control on.
• Warming up the engine so it does not seize up.
• Bobbing and weaving al around the tarmac because manoeuvring a tail-dragger on the ground is very difficult from a modern tricycle gear setup — consult the Taming the taildragger essays linked below.
• Also, setting up your instruments since they will point you in the most absurd directions otherwise (witness the Giantbomb flight club clip below).

Links and files

• Tippis' Checklist (see also kneeboard mods).
• Vehicle Size Chart for sight adjustments.
• Chuck's P-51D guide.
• DCS: P-51D Mustang in the DCS shop.

Related DCS modules

• Charnwood for P-51D campaign.
• High Stakes for P-51D campaign.

More information

• North American P-51 Mustang on wikpedia.
• P-51 “Mustang” on globalsecurity.org
• Taming taildraggers — an essay, Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3.