PMDG 737 NG -600/-700/-800/-900 Cold and Dark Startup Checklist + Flow-Procedure for FSX/P3D

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Introduction

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Welcome to this comprehensive guide on starting the PMDG Boeing 737NG from a cold & dark (C&D) state in Microsoft Flight Simulator X/Preparative III-D (FSX/P3D). This article will walk you through each step of configuring your aircraft for an authentic C& D startup, followed by a detailed procedure on how to bring the PMDG 737NG from cold and dark to takeoff.

Prerequisites

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1. Ensure that both the aircraft itself is set to 'Dark & Cold' in the FMC (Flight Management Computer) before every flight.

2. Activate Dark and Cold for each startup by following these steps:

- Go into Options > Controls > Sim/Graphic Settings.

- Under General, check 'Use Realistic Start-up' option.

Step 1: Pre-Start Checks

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### A. Cockpit Preparation

Before starting the engines, ensure that your cockpit is in a safe and ready state:

* Make sure all cabin doors are closed.

* Turn off all external lights (if applicable).

* Set your seat, headrest, and yoke to comfortable positions.

### B. Cabin Pressurization & Bleed Systems

1. Open the overhead panel above the captain's or first officer's head:

* On most aircraft, this can be done by pressing 'Ctrl + Shift + R' (default keys).

2. Ensure that both cabin pressure and bleed systems are set to 'OFF':

- Cabin Pressure: Use either the manual lever on the forward bulkhead panel or through the FMC.

- Bleed Systems:

* Main Bleeds: Use the corresponding switches located under each engine's cowling.

### C. Start Engines

1. With all necessary checks completed, start both engines:

* Right Engine (R) first using either the push-and-turn starter on the right thrust lever or by pressing 'Ctrl + Shift + R'.

* After a few seconds of propeller rotation and sound indications, advance to:

* Left Engine (L):

- Use the same method as for the right engine.

Step 2: Starting APU & Auxiliaries

1. Start Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) if required:

* Located on the left side forward bulkhead below the center console.

* Turn the corresponding switch to 'START'.

* Once running, press and hold both 'TO/GND' switches for 3 seconds.

Step 3: Electrical & Fuel Systems

1. Start engines using either:

- The start levers on the thrust quadrant or

- By pressing the respective engine start buttons.

2. As soon as both engines are running above idle speed, press and hold 'BOTH' on the APU switch to shut down.

Step 4: Fuel & Hydraulics

1. Ensure that all fuel pumps are in 'OFF' position:

- Use either the switches located near each engine or through the FMC.

2. Extend main gear by advancing both thrust levers forward and then press 'EXT GND' on the respective control panel.

Step 5: Taxiing & Pre-Start Checks

1. Perform a taxi run around the airport to ensure all systems are functioning correctly:

- Check that all lights, instruments, and warning indicators are operating as expected.

2. Complete any remaining pre-flight checks according to your airline's SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures).

Step 6: Start Engines for Takeoff

1. Taxi back to runway centerline at the take-off distance specified in your aircraft manual or on the departure briefing chart.

2. Set throttles to 'IDLE' and advance both thrust levers forward slowly until you feel full reverse pressure.

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With this comprehensive guide, you should now be able to confidently start a PMDG Boeing 737NG from cold & dark conditions in FSX/P3D. Remember that practice makes perfect - take the time to familiarize yourself with these procedures before attempting them during actual flights.

Please note that all information provided is based on my understanding of the reference material and may not reflect real-world procedures or equipment variations exactly as they might occur within an actual Boeing 737NG aircraft. Always consult your airline's SOPs, manufacturer’s documentation, and relevant regulatory requirements for specific guidance when operating any commercial airliner.

This article was created by 'Your Name' using information from the following sources:

* PMDG 737 NGX User Manual

* AVSIM File Library: 'PMDG 737NGX -600/-700/-800/-900 C&D Startup Checklist + Flow-Procedure for FSX/P3D

Pmdg 737 cold and dark startup