Building an Affordable FSX Cessna 172 R Skyhawk Simulator Setup

Building a Cessna 172 R Skyhawk flight simulator on a budget, especially when using FSX, is indeed a commendable project, and I'm here to help guide you through it.

1. Existing Hardware: It's excellent that you have a CH Yoke and pedals. These are vital components for creating an immersive flight experience.
2. Starter Key & Avionics: If you're referring to the ignition key, there are some DIY methods using rotary encoders or potentiometers. However, these might require a bit of electronic know-how. For avionics, there are affordable software options like Panel Builder which can simulate a vast range of instruments. You can run it on the same computer as FSX or on a separate device.
3. Use What You Have: Use your current PC monitor for the main view. Later on, if funds allow, you can consider expanding to a multi-monitor setup. For the avionic displays, old tablets or smartphones can be utilized. Apps like Air Manager can assist in turning them into functional instrument panels.
4. Sim Enhancements on a Budget: There are free and affordable add-ons and plugins which can significantly enhance your FSX experience. Ensure you always respect copyright and licensing agreements when sourcing for these.
5. Ergonomics and Setup: A simple table with adjustable heights can serve as your cockpit base. Ensure it's stable and spacious enough for your equipment. Depending on space, a used office chair can be adjusted to simulate the height and position of a Cessna seat.
6. Consider Future Updates: It's worth noting that while FSX remains a classic, newer flight sim platforms like Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and X-Plane 12 have surfaced, offering enhanced realism. Some of the methods and tools I've mentioned can be applied to these platforms too.

Before we dive deeper, could you provide more specifics on what you're aiming for in terms of realism and function? The clearer the picture you paint, the better the guidance I can provide. Remember, the flight sim community is here to support and assist. Once I have more details, I'll be better equipped to guide you further.