The SimFeedback-AC DIY Motion Simulator thread

[sjb266]

Hey guys. Thought I’d create a thread for those taking the plunge into this brilliant DIY project..
I will be starting mine soon and I know there are others thinking about it.. so feel free to share your knowledge and experiences so we can all enjoy this platform to its full potential. A huge thanks to the developers who have really knocked this one out of the park!

Website: https://opensfx.com/2019/02/20/welcome-to-our-new-site/

Github: https://github.com/SimFeedback/SimFeedback-AC-Servo/wiki

For all the internals for the actuator contact Amy - skye@ntl-bearing.com
She can supply everything you need. Just remind her you want the ends of the shafts chamfered and make sure she sends the right sized ball screw - we have had a couple of issues reported. She is very helpful though and the cost is pretty good.


Huge thanks to @RowanH for writing a comprehensive user guide which can be accessed here - https://www.rowanhick.com/sfx-100-build-and-running-guide

In addition, @anton_Chez has contributed a list of post numbers for some of the important settings etc..
Post #320 SFX-100 thread
Post #327 SFX-100 thread for Discord correlation
Post #339 SFX-100 thread
Post #418 SFX-100 thread
Post #424 SFX-100 thread
Post #439 SFX-100 thread
Post #449 SFX-100 thread
Post #517 SFX-100 thread
Post #554 SFX-100 thread
Post #580 SFX-100 thread
Post #826 SFX-100 thread
Post #837 SFX-100 thread
Post #864,866,867,868,870,887,889,897 SFX-100 thread
Post #911,914 SFX-100 thread
Post #988,992,998 SFX-100 thread
Post #1147 SFX-100 thread
Post #1492 SFX-100 thread
Post #1511,1517 SFX-100 thread

I will try to keep this page updated with links to source the parts in other parts of the world. Just post whatever links you have and i'll add them here.

Please note: Not all the parts listed below are essential for the project. For the essential parts refer to the original shopping list.

Australia:

• O-Ring - https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Kit-419Pcs-O-Ring-O-Ring-Black-Rubber-32-Sizes-With-Case-3-50mm-W8D7/223152697816?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649
• D-Sub breakout board - DB25 25pin Female Adapter RS-232 Serial Terminal Module Breakout Board Connector
• Emergency Stop - https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Reliable-Emergency-Stop-Push-Button-Box-600V-Switch-for-Elevator/192115082001?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649
• Arduino Wiring - https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/40-pcs-Dupont-Cable-20cm-Jumper-Wire-for-Arduino-RPi-breadboard-AU-Stock/202436863098?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&var=502467628096&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649
• Breadboard - https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Mini-Solderless-Breadboard-400-Contacts-Tie-points-Universal-Available-New-lemon/123145741183?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649
• D-Dub Cable - https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Black-D...h=item3f6ace6403:g:038AAOSw9mpaSsU2:rk:1:pf:0
• Screw Shield for Arduino Leonardo - https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/New-Scr...h=item25a9d471a4:g:5BgAAOSwraJbc9rC:rk:1:pf:0
• Arduino Leonardo Replica - https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/DIY-Eduino-Leonardo-Module-with-USB-Cable-for-Arduino-ATMEGA32U4-Blue-Black/132719951279?epid=916281063&hash=item1ee6b9bdaf:g:2QUAAOSw5iNbWv6b:rk:123f:

Thanks to @AussieSim for the following links:

10A power lead(s) * 4
https://www.jaycar.com.au/2m-black-mains-extension-lead/p/PS4152

Top quality wire stripper
https://sydneytools.com.au/product/boxo-cutws205-multifunction-wire-stripper

RCD/safety switch power block
https://www.bunnings.com.au/arlec-4-outlet-heavy-duty-portable-safety-switch_p4420028

WD-40 lithium grease for the ball screws
https://www.bunnings.com.au/wd-40-specialist-300g-high-performance-white-lithium-grease_p6100408

Vibration pads
https://www.bunnings.com.au/whites-on-site-100-x-12-5mm-rubber-anti-vibration-mat-4-pack_p3961547

WD-40 Dry PTFE spray for the slider (free shipping)
https://au.rs-online.com/mobile/p/lubricants/7577134/

Arduino Leonardo (free shipping + frequent 10-15% off discount)
https://www.arrow.com/en/products/a000057/arduino-corporation

DB25 cables * 4 (free shipping)
https://www.arrow.com/en/products/ak401-2/assmann-wsw-components-inc

PETG * 3 (free shipping)
https://www.arrow.com/en/products/petg17bk1/mg-chemicals

WAGO-like connectors to avoid a breadboard (perhaps use genuine ones if you are doing 240V AC)
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32906719488.html

D-Sub breakout boards * 4
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32297675967.html

3D printer Creality Ender-3 Pro
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32918302452.html

Wires from Arduino to D-Sub breakout (remove black plastic from the WAGO end)
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32887680826.html

Crimp connectors for AC wire leads
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32813550981.html

 

[jimbraj]

Thanks for the clarification, Rowan.

I have a slightly dumb question, familiarizing myself with all of the components and build process, why does the shopping list call for 32 M8 thread inserts? With 4 profiles, and 4 per actuator. I'm not sure I understand where the other 16 thread inserts are going.

Thanks.

top and bottom of the extrusion

 

[ScottSonder]

top and bottom of the extrusion

/facepalm

Thanks, Tim and Jimmy!

 

[RowanH]

The SFX-100 gives you such a solid feel for the road and attitude of your car, while the GS-5 adds in sustained pressure of g-forces, wow! I thought it might be too much, and it can be violent, but it feels so real and I left the test session with the biggest smile I have had in my sim rig iterations.

Have you got any piccies of your final setup? It sounds like an awesome combination, I might be (a little) jealous. A mate down the road has a GS5.....

 

[Mascot]

Oof! I was hoping I'd avoided it but I received a demand yesterday from TNT for GBP£40 import duty/VAT and/or clearance charges for the bits I ordered from Emily in China. The value of the goods was only USD$96, so that seems like a lot. £20 of it was for a 'deferement proc fee', whatever the hell that is. I'll be phoning TNT later for some clarity.

 

[EsxPaul]

Oof! I was hoping I'd avoided it but I received a demand yesterday from TNT for GBP£40 import duty/VAT and/or clearance charges for the bits I ordered from Emily in China. The value of the goods was only USD$96, so that seems like a lot. £20 of it was for a 'deferement proc fee', whatever the hell that is. I'll be phoning TNT later for some clarity.

Ouch! They always get you in the end

I'd better brace myself for more than that amount, as Amy has quoted me a higher price for the parts I requested.

Speaking of that, could anyone confirm that my parts/price list for ntl-bearing looks correct? I did ask a few days back but drew a blank

 

[C64]

Oof! I was hoping I'd avoided it but I received a demand yesterday from TNT for GBP£40 import duty/VAT and/or clearance charges for the bits I ordered from Emily in China. The value of the goods was only USD$96, so that seems like a lot. £20 of it was for a 'deferement proc fee', whatever the hell that is. I'll be phoning TNT later for some clarity.

£40 is ok considering the real value of the goods. You have to expect a custom clearance fee and £20 is not excessive, just seems so relative to the declared value. At least they deliver first and request payment later.

 

[Mascot]

£40 is ok considering the real value of the goods. You have to expect a custom clearance fee and £20 is not excessive, just seems so relative to the declared value. At least they deliver first and request payment later.

I've done a little research since posting that earlier and, while I understand I'm liable for import duty and VAT, it seems the 'deferement proc fee' by TNT is unenforceable. It's an assumption TNT make (a lot of people are calling this a 'scam' on various money forums) that the customer will be happy to pay a £20 fee to let TNT pay the duty and VAT on their behalf to expedite clearance then claim it back (plus this 'handling charge') from the customer, but the customer has not actually entered into any agreement with TNT about this or, more importantly, been given the opportunity to decline it. The customer might be happy to go to the warehouse to pay the VAT and duty themselves and save themselves this £20 handling fee (which, let's face it, will be a couple of keystrokes on an existing account for a TNT accounts admin somewhere). It's unlikely the customer would find this route easier or cheaper, but TNT are strong-arming customers into this without any prior warning. That's what I disagree with - it's an underhand tactic to generate easy income for TNT. I know how sneaky TNT can be from previous experience of using them as a business courier.

Found this on a money forum:

I've just put down the phone to TNT on this issue.
I've agreed to pay VAT and DUTY because I'm required to by law.
However - as other people have mentioned - I have no contract with TNT and I certainly didn't ask them to provide any 'express clearance' - eg - I would have been happy to pay the customs and duty and then have them release the parcel.
TNT immediately (ie with absolutely no arguement) agreed to drop the fee and send me a new invoice only for customs and duty.
They are just trying it on- if you have your parcel - phone them up - tell them you'll happily pay DUTY and VAT but that you didn't ask them to provide the DPF service - and therefore - if they elected to - it will have to be at no cost.
GIven how quickly they resolved for me - I assume thats pretty common as a solution !

 

[Insert Coin]

Harry posted this on the DCS forum. He's the guy that has been working on the DCS plugin for us Fight sim guys. Check out how the engine vibes at low RPM jerk the cockpit around! Has anyone else here tried the latest plugin for DCS?

More info here: https://forums.eagle.ru/showthread.php?s=bb1e43340c5f1ecf759f3216e26ff73d&t=226522&page=2
He's also a sim racer:

 

[jimbraj]

Ouch! They always get you in the end

I'd better brace myself for more than that amount, as Amy has quoted me a higher price for the parts I requested.

Speaking of that, could anyone confirm that my parts/price list for ntl-bearing looks correct? I did ask a few days back but drew a blank

Yah looks right

 

[C64]

I've done a little research since posting that earlier and, while I understand I'm liable for import duty and VAT, it seems the 'deferement proc fee' by TNT is unenforceable. It's an assumption TNT make (a lot of people are calling this a 'scam' on various money forums) that the customer will be happy to pay a £20 fee to let TNT pay the duty and VAT on their behalf to expedite clearance then claim it back (plus this 'handling charge') from the customer, but the customer has not actually entered into any agreement with TNT about this or, more importantly, been given the opportunity to decline it. The customer might be happy to go to the warehouse to pay the VAT and duty themselves and save themselves this £20 handling fee (which, let's face it, will be a couple of keystrokes on an existing account for a TNT accounts admin somewhere). It's unlikely the customer would find this route easier or cheaper, but TNT are strong-arming customers into this without any prior warning. That's what I disagree with - it's an underhand tactic to generate easy income for TNT. I know how sneaky TNT can be from previous experience of using them as a business courier.

Found this on a money forum:

I've just put down the phone to TNT on this issue.
I've agreed to pay VAT and DUTY because I'm required to by law.
However - as other people have mentioned - I have no contract with TNT and I certainly didn't ask them to provide any 'express clearance' - eg - I would have been happy to pay the customs and duty and then have them release the parcel.
TNT immediately (ie with absolutely no arguement) agreed to drop the fee and send me a new invoice only for customs and duty.
They are just trying it on- if you have your parcel - phone them up - tell them you'll happily pay DUTY and VAT but that you didn't ask them to provide the DPF service - and therefore - if they elected to - it will have to be at no cost.
GIven how quickly they resolved for me - I assume thats pretty common as a solution !

I take back what I said about the charge not being excessive - worth calling them to see if you can have another chinese happy ending

 

[HoiHman]

More info here: https://forums.eagle.ru/showthread.php?s=bb1e43340c5f1ecf759f3216e26ff73d&t=226522&page=2
He's also a sim racer:

Looking great

I'm all for immersion, gloves, seat belts, motion ect..

But when i comes to putting a helmet on my head, that's where i draw the line

 

[Mascot]

I take back what I said about the charge not being excessive - worth calling them to see if you can have another chinese happy ending

More research throws up several examples where people have told TNT to go whistle for ALL of the fees.
TNT already paid HMRC so there's nothing owing to the British government. A few people are saying that TNT made the decision to pay the VAT/duty themselves without consulting the customer or entering into any formal/inferred contract, probably for speed and simplicity but also possibly to give TNT the opportunity to then add their £20 handling charge, so the customer can thank TNT but is in no way liable to pay them back. I'm not sure I'd go that route, but it'd be one in the eye for them for trying to slap excessive charges on to unsuspecting customers who probably pay up because of government/VAT/duty fear. The government are already out of the loop and won't care one way or another - they have already been paid. And TNT have already been paid to deliver the goods. If they want to pay the VAT and duty for people, then.. how kind.
Interesting..!

 

[callumjtc]

Oof! I was hoping I'd avoided it but I received a demand yesterday from TNT for GBP£40 import duty/VAT and/or clearance charges for the bits I ordered from Emily in China. The value of the goods was only USD$96, so that seems like a lot. £20 of it was for a 'deferement proc fee', whatever the hell that is. I'll be phoning TNT later for some clarity.

I got hit £35 once on a £40 slave cylinder for my pedals from the states. The postage was £20! That then had the seals fail after the company that sold it vanished, (paypal got my money back) but left me £35 down on customs . I have just taken delivery of a Wilwood one from Demon Tweeks so hopefully that's better!

 

[BenKay]

I didn't get hit for any duties on Emily's parcel. I did get hit for duty on the motors (maybe not surprisingly), which was an easy payment online via DHL (no additional handling fee or anything, confirmed by the customs receipt on the parcel).

 

[Stevie_007]

finally cleaned up electronics from my champagne crates,

 

[anton_Chez]

Replacing your yellow Mirco seat for the GS-4 is making my eyes bleeeed.............. make it stop....!!

Seriously though, I hope you enjoy that thing. It would be great to try one with the actuators running.

 

[ScottSonder]

Dang, folks across the pond really have a hassle on those import fees. The one time I'm glad to be stateside.

 

[o Tiger Feet o]

Hi guys, Some of you will have been 'spammed' by me with 'likes' and 'thanks' as i've read though 132 pages in the last couple of days. Thanks!

Im a V3 user but im seriously tempted by this 'little' project.

Im in the UK.

1) Is there a specific 'UK' friendly shopping list these days? Obviously this thread is quite mature now so im thinking some of the earlier info might be dated?

2) Did anybody in the UK source somebody to do the 3d printing for them?

Thanks

 

[anton_Chez]

Most of the main parts all come from the same source no matter where you are in the world. The profile and servos + drivers are very important to have the same otherwise, as others have found, you can run into problems and having different equipment can make it hard to offer solutions. Stuff like cables and wiring are pretty generic so as long as you get the right sort and enough of it, you should be fine to source them locally.

 

[Specialist68]

Trying to order the alum extrusions and other parts for the SFX-100 actuators from Kinetic from the shopping list. When I attempt to check out and put in my USA based address there is no "USA" available from the drop down list. Anyone not able to order these from the USA?

Call them or E-mail, then you can give your adres to send to.