Collective Controllers
for Bell 206 type helicopter simulators
Since the release of the advanced 206 helicopter software from Dodosim Flight Simulation, the enthusiast built Bell 206 helicopter simulator has gained considerable respect for how close we can come to a realistic training aid in a relatively low cost simulator. The accuracy of this software makes it suitable for real world helicopter training applications for home based simulators or as an effective tool for helicopter flight training schools. The main problem now is finding flight controls that resemble the real controllers, as well as controls that work similar to the real thing. Some simulator builders are converting real controls that have been obtained from ebay or aircraft wrecking yards, but these are hard to come by and vary greatly in condition and cost. Installing real collectives in some simulators could also be a little complicated, as they were not designed for this purpose.
On this page you will find the collective controls that I have been fabricating for other 206 simulator builders, as well as the training simulators I build here in the shop. The collectives are made from 6061-T6 aluminum and the parts are machined individually on a lathe/mill. The controllers are built to order, and usually require some lead time depending on what parts I may have completed and in stock.
The spring loaded mechanical idle release button has a detent position that interacts with the rotating throttle grip to control fuel to the engine. The system allows realistic 206 startup, run-up, flight, and shutdown procedures. These collectives will mimic the real 206 collective when starting and cutting fuel to the engine, when using them with the Dodosim Advanced 206 helicopter for FS9, and the DodoSim 206 FSX for Flight Simulator 10. Although these collectives were built for the realistic assignment features of the Dodosim 206 aircraft, they can also work as a collective/throttle controller for other flight simulator helicopter models.
The switches include a working starter switch, landing lights switch, and governor "beeper" switch. The DodoSim 206 FSX for Flight Simulator 10 has new functional dual landing lights. This feature is also incorporated by a working 3-position landing light switch on these collectives controlling one or both landing lights.
As well as the familiar rounded Bell 206 switch head displayed in FS9 and FSX, a rectangular style switch head version found in some JetRanger models is also available.
Bell 206 Type Collective with Mounting Base/Friction Control
(prewired with color coded wires for connecting to builders' existing interface controller)
Collective lever with twist grip throttle and mechanical idle release detent/fuel stop button.
Rounded Style Switch Head
Rectangular Style Switch Head
USB Interface Controller
(Optional)
A prewired USB interface module is an option for new simulator installations,
or for those that just want the convenience of "plug and play".
Additional Molex connectors can be prewired for quick connection of my cyclic and/or pedal controllers,
when sharing the same USB interface.
Dual Control Collectives
(for teaching and trainer type simulators)
* Note that these dual collectives are designed for a cockpit seat base that incorporates a rearward sloped step-down cutout,
to allow the main connecting tube and throttle rod to run just below the rear of the copilots seat.
Dual collective levers with synchronized throttle control.
Secondary collective lever has cork covered throttle grip with a turned aluminum end cap.
For information on purchasing collective controllers please e-mail or call.
E-mail: jjellen@nrtco.net
Phone: 613-646-7249
Computer Repairs//Jess Jellen
Box 477, Cobden,
Ontario, Canada, K0J1K0
