Couple things I'm sure you know and maybe by design, but thought I'd mention if not. I tested with the A2. Looks great overall:
> AI doesn't close the cockpit on take off. I started as player plane, but switched to auto pilot. Canopy stayed open and step stayed extended
This is not a bug, you started as player, and then switched to AI, so you will have to close the canopy manually ...
> Cowls and fans look much better, but spinners are noticably off center (mesh alignment?)
I know, this is a stock game bug in fact, and in spite of several attempts Clay has not yet managed to solve it, but who knows, may be some day ...??
Do this, watch this Russian film of a captured A4, around 1'10 and ... ???
Love the details like the step, and gear indicator pins, cockpit map etc...
Yep, very nice, and try this prior to take off, general external view of the plane, slightly above it, now move the stick in all directions and watch the pilot's right arm, your flaps and elevator ...
Like in real life isn't it ...??!!