CRASH!

[pegase]

Brad,

In matter of aviation, you are the professional, the authority all of us listen .
In matter of reluctant computers and software... May be here some people around can give you some ideas. I will try.

If like me, you fly on line with refreshed meteo data, then cut your connection, define a preset meteo , RESTART your machine and try. Nowadays, an
online computer get various solicitation and attacks which can interfere badly with the running programs. directly or through the reaction of your
antivirus. also FS2004 reacts badly when trying to update the meteo something fails reaching the server

If it solves the problem, then you know you have to fix domething about your internet connexion and/or antivirus.

If the problem remains:
Think first about what changes occured on your computersince it was working fine. First of all, off course any flight sim config, add on or
accessories like yokes, engine units or pedals. But as well any other program. (especially those who change or install DirectX drivers).

If you suspect any new thing on your computer, then you can choose between uninstalling them or re-install your flight sim config above it. Depends
of the work and importance of the different programs.

If not, I don't see anything else than uninstall addon, check, uninstall anothe, check etc. until you get a stable configuration.

When all add ons are removed and FS2004 is still dodgy then, no more choice, you must uninstall. FS2004, make the usual "housekeeping" about HD
fragmentation, windows update, antivirus check and re-install.

On my experience this bit after bit method fixes 99% of the problems.

Despite the 1100110, computer is anything you like except exact science. Unlike aviation, there are no rules and procedures but just philosophy and
method to cut the big problem in smaller and smaller part until fwhat causes the mess is found or... removed.

Good luck and welcome in the world of software troubleshooters.