These Joystick extensions are designed exclusively to fit the the VPforce Rhino with the standard or metal stick connector and are for use with Thrustmaster Warthog/Cougar and Virpil (VPC) joystick grips..
The main tube is 30mm in diameter and extends the grip up by various heights and offsets towards the pilot. If using a Thrustmaster grip, the grip itself will be rotated 15° counter clockwise for wrist comfort when centre mounted.
Some components are designed to be more rugged than our standard joystick extensions to be able to cope with the extra forces invoked by the force feedback of the base.
Despite the VPforce connector being able to accept TM and Virpil grips, we found that our standard extension felt sloppy when connecting to the Rhino due to the different shape inside the VPforce connector over the Thrustmaster, we have therefore redesigned the base connection on the extensions for a much closer fit.
Unlike most others available, these extensions are fully hardwired allowing easy no-fuss swap out between joystick handles and extension/no extension modes1.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you are using the VPforce Rhino Base in reverse configuration (with stop switch away from the pilot), you will need to:
- reverse the 5-Pin Socket housing in the Rhino stick Connector housing (recommended if planning on using more than 1 grip/extension)
The method is easy to do by loosening 2 screws and gently lifting the socket housing (or the plug housing in the Extension), rotating 180° the socket/plug housing and replacing the screws. (see video below for guidance)
Do not overtighten the screws.
NOTE: Please measure the height/offset you need carefully before ordering, we cannot accept a return if you find you have not ordered the correct one.
New for F-16 Enthusiasts!
We have added a new short extension with a rake of 12° to tilt the grip forwards and have removed the 15° counter clockwise rotation of the top fixing, it adds only 40mm of height to achieve this (see pic above).
All the extensions have the same anti-twist notches that match the newer VPC Grips and the component that mates with the base is made from a extremely hard wearing Polycarbonate Blend composite to keep it in shape.
Compatability
- Other than those listed below, no other bases or grips are considered compatible at this time.
Bases
- VPforce Rhino Assembled Base
- VPforce Rhino DIY Base using the VPforce Grip Connector
Grips
- Thrustmaster Warthog Grip
- Thrustmaster F/A-18C Grip
- Thrustmaster Cougar Grip
- VPC WarBRD Grip
- VPC V.F.X Grip
- VPC MongoosT-50 Series Grips
- VPC Constellation ALPHA Series Grips
- VPC Constelation DELTA
Notes:
1. Please disconnect the base from the power and USB when swapping between joysticks/extensions!
2. Pushing your joystick beyond it's movement limits with force may result in breaking the extension itself, particularly with the longer extensions.
3. Adding the extension allows the supported grips to operate in the same manner as directly connecting them to the Rhino Base only.
Note: This item is 3D printed. There will be obvious print lines on this product due to the nature of 3D printing. The colour of the base interface, plug and socket holder (not visible once installed) will vary depending on model chosen. We have colour coded them to make sure we send you the right one!
