Hi Robert,
It sounds like you're encountering a rather frustrating view reset issue with the PMDG 737-800 in MSFS 2020. I appreciate your detailed description of the problem, which makes it easier to pinpoint potential solutions. Let's tackle this step-by-step.
1. Check Keyboard Bindings:
First, ensure your key bindings are set up correctly in MSFS. It’s possible that updates or modifications might have altered your settings. Navigate to the Options -> Controls Options and review the assignments for changing views to confirm they are still bound to Ctrl+1, Ctrl+2, etc.
2. Resetting Camera Configurations:
Sometimes, the camera configuration files can get corrupted. Resetting these might resolve the issue:
- Go to the MSFS settings menu.
- Select 'Camera'.
- Hit 'Reset to Defaults'.
This action will revert any changes you might have unintentionally made.
3. Update the PMDG Aircraft:
Check for updates for your PMDG 737-800. PMDG frequently releases patches that can fix unexpected behaviors:
- Open the PMDG Operations Center.
- Check the 'Aircraft and Liveries' section for any available updates for the 737-800.
Applying the latest updates can often clear up issues caused by software bugs.
4. Verify MSFS Files:
Corrupted game files can also cause unexpected behavior. You can verify the integrity of the game files if you are using Steam:
- Right-click MSFS in your Steam library.
- Go to 'Properties' -> 'Local Files'.
- Click on 'Verify Integrity of Game Files'.
This process will check for and replace missing or corrupted files.
5. Consider Conflicting Software:
Other software, especially those that use overlays or control peripherals, might interfere with MSFS. Consider temporarily disabling software like Discord, OBS, or even antivirus programs to see if the issue persists.
6. Reinstallation:
If none of the above steps work, as a last resort, consider reinstalling MSFS. While this is time-consuming, it often resolves persistent issues.
If you have tried all these steps and still face the problem, it could be useful to reach out directly on the official MSFS forums or contact PMDG support for more specialized assistance.