Hi Jim. Here's how I do it. First you need to extract the zipfile to a Temp folder in the same way as a downloaded aircraft. Open the extracted folder to examine it. All panels consist of a Panel.cfg file + one or more BMP images. These should be in a folder named Panel. (Open the Panel folder of any default flyable aircraft to check how they're configured.) If the files are not already configured for install, create a new folder named Panel & drag the Panel.cfg & BMPs into it. (If in doubt I always refer to the default files.)

To install the new panel to an existing aircraft, open its folder & back up the existing panel by renaming the Panel folder to Panel.1 or similar. It doesn't really matter what you name it. Now paste the new Panel folder into the aircraft.

Most 3rd party panels will include their own gauges. These will usually be in a folder or zipfile named Gauges or similar. To install the gauges open this folder, click Edit/Select All & paste the complete contents into FS2002\Gauges. Do NOT overwrite files/folders if prompted.

Most downloads will include instructions. It's always a good idea to read these first even if you use your own methods to install the files.

Hope this is some help. It's really not difficult when you get the idea.

PS. I'm assuming you already know how to install a new aircraft. If not, this tute should help. http://www.simviation.com/acinstall.htm
This one covers panels. http://www.simviation.com/paninstall.htm
Both tutes are posted in the SimV Help section. Also check out my Lair from the link in my sig.

Hi Jim. As you're new at this my Windows Basics & Working with Windows articles might help. http://www.simviation.com/lair/Windows%20Basics.htm These should tell you all you need to know to get started without searching around for it.

You can use the Cut & Paste functions from the right-click mouse options or Edit on the Windows Explorer menu bar.

??? ???Hagar,  in Re: #3, I could not get the web site to respond.  Has there been any changes?? captjim

       Captjim, just want to tell you that Hagar's site and tutorials are very helpful, especially when one is an old retread but a newbie computer flier like I am. I learned a lot, including the mystifying "cut, copy, and paste" routines, I heartily recommend his site when all else fails. Actually, I now go there before "all else fails" and invariably find out what I need to know. Hang in there, you'll figure it out.

Dodger, thanks for your assistance.  I will try Hagars sites when I get a chance.  captjim

??? ???Hagar, sorry to be such a pest, but I'am having trouble getting into the Lair.  Actually, I can get to the site, however when I click on a topic my screen goes back to my brouser. (SBC).  Thats a good one eh??  It seems like what ever I need to do to accomplish anything in Sims its just out of reach.  My computer skills are just good enough to make me dangerous (not to anyone else, just me), captjim

Hagar,  I'll keep trying.  captjim