DCS GUIDE

BF.109K-4 KURFÜRST
By Chuck
LAST UPDATED: 21/07/20191
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
• PART 1 – INTRODUCTION
• PART 2 – CONTROLS SETUP
• PART 3 – COCKPIT & GAUGES
• PART 4 – START-UP PROCEDURE
• PART 5 – TAKEOFF
• PART 6 – LANDING
• PART 7 – ENGINE & FUEL MANAGEMENT
• PART 8 – AIRCRAFT LIMITATIONS
• PART 9 – WEAPONS
• PART 10 – RADIO
• PART 11 – NAVIGATION
• PART 12 – AIR COMBAT
• PART 13 – TAMING TAILDRAGGERS

Special thanks to Paul "Goldwolf" Whittingham for creating the guide icons. 2
 The Messserschmitt Bf.109 is a German World War II fighter aircraft that was the backbone of the Luftwaffe's fighter force. The Bf 109 first
KURFÜRST saw operational service during the Spanish Civil War (1939) and was still in service at the dawn of the jet age at the end of World War II
(1945). It was one of the most advanced fighters of the era, including such features as all-metal monocoque construction, a closed canopy,
BF109K-4

and retractable landing gear. It was powered by a liquid-cooled, inverted-V12 aero engine. From the end of 1941, the Bf.109 was steadily
being supplemented by the superior Focke-Wulf FW190.
Originally conceived as an interceptor, later models were developed to fulfill multiple tasks, serving as bomber escort, fighter-bomber, day-
, night-, all-weather fighter, ground-attack aircraft, and as reconnaissance aircraft. It was designed by Willy Messerschmitt (hence Me 109)
and Robert Lusser, who worked at Bayerische Flugzeugwerke, during the early to mid-1930s. It was supplied to and operated by several
states during World War II, and served with several countries for many years after the war. The Bf 109 was the most produced fighter aircraft
in history, with a total of 33,984 airframes produced from 1936 up to April 1945.
The Bf.109 was flown by the three top-scoring German fighter aces of World War II, who claimed 928 victories among them while flying
with Jagdgeschwader 52, mainly on the Eastern Front. The highest scoring fighter ace of all time, Erich Hartmann, flew the Bf 109 and was
credited with 352 aerial victories. The aircraft was also flown by Hans-Joachim Marseille, the highest scoring German ace in the North
African Campaign who achieved 158 aerial victories. Through constant development, the Bf.109 remained competitive with the
latest Allied fighter aircraft until the end of the war.

The names "Anton", "Berta", "Caesar", "Dora", "Emil", "Friedrich", "Gustav" and "Kurfürst" were derived from the variant's official letter Willy Messerschmitt
designation (e.g. Bf 109G – "Gustav"), based on the German spelling alphabet of World War II, a practice that was also used for other (1898-1978)
German aircraft designs. The final production version of the Bf 109 was the K series, or "Kurfürst", introduced in late 1944, powered by the
DB 605D engine with up to 2,000 PS (1,973 HP). Though externally akin to the late production Bf 109G series, a large number of internal
PART 1 – INTRODUCTION

changes and aerodynamic improvements were incorporated that improved its effectiveness and remedied existing flaws, keeping it
competitive with the latest Allied and Soviet fighters.

An advantage of the 109’s design was that the main landing gear, which retracted through an 85-degree angle, was attached to the fuselage,
making it possible to completely remove the wings for servicing without additional equipment to support the fuselage. It also allowed
simplification of the wing structure, since it did not have to bear the loads imposed during takeoff or landing. The one major drawback of
this landing gear arrangement was its narrow wheel track, making the aircraft unstable while on the ground. To increase stability, the legs
were splayed outward somewhat, creating another problem in that the loads imposed during takeoff and landing were transferred up
through the legs at an angle. The small rudder of the Bf 109 was relatively ineffective at controlling the strong swing created by the powerful
slipstream of the propeller during the early portion of the takeoff roll, and this sideways drift created disproportionate loads on the wheel
opposite to the swing. If the forces imposed were large enough, the pivot point broke and the landing gear leg would collapse outward into
its bay. Experienced pilots reported that the swing was easy to control, but some of the less-experienced pilots lost fighters on takeoff.

The Bf.109 is truly one of the deadliest World War II aircraft available in DCS. Its great firepower, superb climb rate and airspeed make it a
formidable opponent against Mustang, Spitfire, Thunderbolt and Kittyhawk pilots. Robert Lusser
3
(1899-1969)
KURFÜRST CONTROL FUNCTION
BF109K-4

COMM PUSH TO TALK ALLOWS YOU TO USE RADIO MENU WHILE FLYING

CHARGE MK 108 (D) CHARGES MK108 CANNON

FLAPS EXTEND DEPLOYS YOUR FLAPS IN LANDING POSITION

FLAPS RETRACT RETRACTS YOUR FLAPS

FIRE MACHINEGUNS (A) FIRES YOUR MG131 MACHINEGUNS

FIRE CANNONS/ROCKETS (B) FIRES YOUR MK108 CANNON

BOMB RELEASE (B2) DROPS A BOMB

UNDERCARRIAGE (TOGGLE) RAISES OR DEPLOYS YOUR LANDING GEAR

PART 2 – CONTROLS SETUP

STARTER HANDLE STARTER SWITCH. MAP IT TO SOMETHING YOU CAN HOLD OR TOGGLE.

GUN SAFETY LEVER (TOGGLE) GUN SAFETY

TRIM STABILIZER DOWN/UP ELEVATOR (STABILIZER) TRIM CONTROL

MW50 BOOST SYSTEM (TOGGLE) INJECTS WATER-METHANOL, INCREASING MANIFOLD PRESSURE. USE WITH CAUTION.

TAILWHEEL LOCK (TOGGLE) LOCKS OR UNLOCKS YOUR TAILWHEEL.

ZOOM IN SLOW ALLOWS YOU TO ZOOM IN

ZOOM OUT SLOW ALLOWS YOU TO ZOOM OUT

4
KURFÜRST
BF109K-4

To assign an axis, click on “AXIS ASSIGN”. You can also

select “AXIS COMMANDS” in the upper scrolling menu.

To modify curves and sensitivities of

PART 2 – CONTROLS SETUP

axes, click on the axis you want to

modify and then click on “AXIS TUNE”.

5
 In the “Special” menu in Options, select the Bf 109 K-4 menu. Make sure to have Takeoff Assist set to “0” (turned off). By default it is set to 100 (ON). This will cause
KURFÜRST you to crash and burn inexplicably during takeoff. Also uncheck the Auto-Rudder box.
BF109K-4

Set Auto-Rudder to OFF (Uncheck Box)

Set Takeoff Assist to “0”

PART 2 – CONTROLS SETUP

6
KURFÜRST Bind the following axes:
BF109K-4

• PITCH, ROLL, RUDDER (DEADZONE AT 0, SATURATION X AT 100, SATURATION Y AT 100, CURVATURE AT 0)

• THROTTLE – CONTROLS ATA/ MANIFOLD PRESSURE / BOOST
• WHEEL BRAKE LEFT
• WHEEL BRAKE RIGHT

When setting wheel brake axis, the axis is not set to

“Invert” by default. You need to click on “Invert” in the
“Axis Tune” menu” for each wheel brake.
PART 2 – CONTROLS SETUP

7
 BF109K-4
PART 3 – COCKPIT & GAUGES KURFÜRST

8
 Tip: Pilot body can be toggled ON/OFF with “RSHIFT+P”
KURFÜRST
BF109K-4
PART 3 – COCKPIT & GAUGES

9
KURFÜRST Oxygen Pressure Indicator
BF109K-4

(kg/cm2)
Oxygen Flow Indicator
Oxygen Flow Valve Control

FuG 16ZY Radio Receiver Fine

Tuning Knob (+/- 30 kHz)
IFF Test button

FuG 25a IFF (Identify-Friend-

or-Foe) Transponder Code
Selection Switch
PART 3 – COCKPIT & GAUGES

Drop Tank Fuel Flow

Transfer Indicator

FuG 16ZY Radio Frequency

Selector Switch FuG 16ZY Radio FuG 16ZY Radio Homing Selector Switch
Volume Control Ft: Funktelefonie / Radio Telephony
Y-ZF: Zwischenfrequenz Intermediate Frequency / Frequency Tuning
10
KURFÜRST
BF109K-4

A100 Generator Switch (Stromer Zeuger)

A101 Battery Switch
D100 Pitot/Windscreen Heat Switch (Staurohr (Sammler)
Sichtscheibenheizung Heizhandschuhe)

C100 Navigation Lights Power Switch

(Kennlichter) F135 FuG 16ZY Radio Power
Switch
PART 3 – COCKPIT & GAUGES

C101 Interior UV Lights Power Switch (UV Leuchten)

F211 FuG 25A IFF (Identify-Friend-or-
V101 External Ordnance and Optional Equipment Power Foe) Unit Power Switch
Switch (Abwurfwaffe Gondeln Bildgeräte Aufklärer)
E101 Fuel Pump Power Switch
(Tankpumpe)
V100 Ignition, MW50, Compass, Propeller Pitch,
Instruments & Gunsight Power Switch

Note: Black buttons (circuit breaker) power

the system when pressed IN, red buttons
unpower the system when pressed IN.

11
KURFÜRST
BF109K-4
PART 3 – COCKPIT & GAUGES

Fuel/MW50 Jettison Lever

Radiator Mode Selector

• Zu: Closed, Automation OFF.
• Auf: Open, Automation ON.
• Ruhe/Abgeschälte: Automation is OFF. Radiator
flaps remain fixed to current position.
• Automatik: Automatic Mode ON

Right Hand Radiator Cutoff Handle

12
 Oil Pressure Indicator Oil Temperature Indicator Radiator Coolant Temperature Indicator
KURFÜRST Fuel Pressure (kg/cm2) (deg C) (Deg C)
Indicator (kg/cm2)
BF109K-4

Variometer (Climb/Sink
Rate in m/s)

Flare Gun
PART 3 – COCKPIT & GAUGES

Propeller Pitch
Indicator

Landing Gear Manual

Release Handle

Low Fuel Quantity Warning Light

AFN-2 Homing Indicator Illuminates when main tank is below 30
Liters (5 minutes of fuel).

Engine RPM/Umin x100 Supercharger Pressure Gauge (ATA) Fuel Quantity Indicator (Liters)
Capacity Main Tank: 400 L 13
Similar to Boost or Manifold Pressure
 MW-50 (Methanol-Wasser 50, or Airspeed Indicator Artificial Horizon and
KURFÜRST Water-Methanol Injection) (km/h) Turn & Bank Indicator
BF109K-4

Pressure Indicator (kg/cm2)

Barometric Pressure
Setting (hPa)
PART 3 – COCKPIT & GAUGES

Barometric Pressure
(QFE) Setting Knob
Altimeter (km)

Repeater Compass

14
KURFÜRST MG-131 Machinegun Ammunition Counter
BF109K-4

Left (Links) MG-151 Cannon Power Light

Illuminated when wing Cannon Switch is ON and
the V101 switch on the Electrical Circuit Breaker
Panel is ON. Note that Wing Cannons are not
available yet in the DCS Bf109.

Master Arm Switch

Up: Armed

Canopy Jettison Handle Clock

Right (Rechts) MG-151 Cannon Power Light

PART 3 – COCKPIT & GAUGES

Illuminated when wing Cannon Switch is ON and

the V101 switch on the Electrical Circuit Breaker
Panel is ON. Note that Wing Cannons are not
available yet in the DCS Bf109.

MG-131 Machinegun Breechblock Status Signal Lamp

Illuminated: Open
Extinguished: Closed

Lamp flickering when firing the weapon means the breechblock mechanism operates
properly. If lamp remains extinguished or illuminated when trigger is pressed, a
weapon malfunction has occurred.

MG-131 Machinegun Ammunition

Counter Setting knob

15
KURFÜRST
BF109K-4

Revi 16B Fixed Gunsight

PART 3 – COCKPIT & GAUGES

Revi 16B Fixed Gunsight

(Click to Stow)

16
 Electric Kill Switch
KURFÜRST
BF109K-4

Magneto Switch
MW-50 (Methanol-Wasser 50, or Water-
Methanol Injection) Switch
Left = Disabled
Starter Switch & Cover Right = Enabled
PART 3 – COCKPIT & GAUGES

Wing Cannon Power Switch

Left = OFF
Landing Gear (Fahrwerk) Control Buttons Right = ON
Ein/Flug = Gear Up
Auf/Landung = Gear Down Cannon Arming Switch
Left = Cannon Selected
Landing Gear (Fahrwerk) Status Indicators Right = Rockets/Bombs Selected
Ein: Gear Up
Aus Links/Rechts: Left/Right Gear Down
17
 Push-to-Talk Switch
KURFÜRST Propeller Pitch Manual Rocker Switch
(Drehzahl)
BF109K-4

Größer = Finer = Increases RPM

Throttle Kleiner = Coarser = Decreases RPM

Fuel Feed Selector Lever

Zu: OFF
P1: Fuel Pump P1 On
P2: Fuel Pump P2 On
P1+P2: Both Fuel Pump P1 and P2 On
PART 3 – COCKPIT & GAUGES

Cold Weather Start Lever (Not

Simulated)

Engine Stop Handle

Used to shutdown the engine after flight Left Hand Radiator Cutoff Handle

Ordnance Emergency Release Lever Fuel Priming Handle

18
 Propeller Pitch Manual Rocker Switch
KURFÜRST (Drehzahl)
BF109K-4

Größer = Finer = Increases RPM

Kleiner = Coarser = Decreases RPM
PART 3 – COCKPIT & GAUGES

Propeller Governor Automation Switch

Fwd: Manual Pitch Control
Aft: Automatic Pitch Control

19
KURFÜRST Elevator Trim Wheel
BF109K-4

Flaps Extension Control Wheel

Elevator Trim Setting

(deg)
PART 3 – COCKPIT & GAUGES

20
KURFÜRST
BF109K-4

Tailwheel Lock Lever

PART 3 – COCKPIT & GAUGES

MW50 (MW Stoff) vs Fuel

(Kraftstoff) Selector Handle

21
 BF109K-4
PART 3 – COCKPIT & GAUGES KURFÜRST
Slats
Canopy Lever

22
 MK-108 30 mm Cannon/Rockets (B1) Button Cannon Safety Cover Bomb Release Mode Selector Switch
KURFÜRST • RALT+SPACE binding • LSHIFT+SPACE binding • Left side: Dive Bombing (Sturz)
• MV: Mit Verzögerung (with delay)
BF109K-4

• OV: Ohne Verzögerung (without delay)

• Right side: Level Bombing (Wagerecht)
• MV: Mit Verzögerung (with delay)
• OV: Ohne Verzögerung (without delay)
• Middle: Aus (Disarmed)

Bomb Release (B2) Button

• RSHIFT+SPACE binding
PART 3 – COCKPIT & GAUGES

MG-131 Machinegun (A) Button

• SPACE binding

MK-108 30 mm Cannon Charge (D) Button

• LALT+SPACE binding

23
KURFÜRST
BF109K-4

Flaps Position Indicator (deg)

Lines = 30/20/10/5 DEG
PART 3 – COCKPIT & GAUGES

24
 BF109K-4
PART 3 – COCKPIT & GAUGES KURFÜRST

Armoured Glass

25
KURFÜRST
BF109K-4

Pitot Tube
PART 3 – COCKPIT & GAUGES

FuG 16ZY Morane Radio Antenna

Right Coolant Radiator Flap Intake

Left Coolant Radiator Flap Intake

Oil Radiator Intake 26

KURFÜRST Red Navigation Light
BF109K-4
PART 3 – COCKPIT & GAUGES

Green Navigation Light

White Navigation Light

27
KURFÜRST
PRE-FLIGHT
1
BF109K-4

1. All forward circuit breakers – ON (C100 Nav Lights and C101 UV

Lights optional)
2. Radiator Switch – AUTOMATIK (UP)
3. Oxygen Valve – OPEN
4. Governor Automation System – AUTOMATIC (Left click on switch)
5. Verify that propeller pitch adjusts accordingly to a 12:00 position
(Needles should be moving and audible)

2
4
PART 4 – START-UP

28
KURFÜRST ENGINE START
BF109K-4

2
1. Fuel Pump Selector – P1+P2 (FULLY OPEN, RIGHT CLICK)
• Note: You may need to move your throttle to access the fuel pump lever
2. Magnetos (Ignition) switch – M1+2 (LEFT CLICK)
3. Prime engine until the fuel pressure gauge is sufficient by repeatedly left-clicking and
holding on the fuel priming pump handle. Prime until fuel pressure reaches 2 kg/cm 2.
Note: This step is now optional since the simulation also allows an engine start without
having to prime the engine beforehand.
4. Set throttle to IDLE (FULLY AFT).

3c
PART 4 – START-UP

3a

3b 29
KURFÜRST ENGINE START
5a
BF109K-4

5. Call your ground crew (Press “\” and then press “F8”) and press “F4” to
ask the crew to run the manual inertial starter crank.
6. Flip the cover switch on the starter. 5b
7. Once the inertial starter has been running for more than 10 seconds,
the ground crew will give you the signal to pull the starter lever aft
(“Clear!”). Pull the starter handle until successful engine ignition.
8. Close your canopy (“LCtrl+C” or by clicking on canopy handle).

6
5c
PART 4 – START-UP

30
KURFÜRST ENGINE WARM-UP 1
BF109K-4

1. Ensure oil pressure is between 3 and 9.5 kg/cm2.

2. Hold wheel brakes and adjust throttle to reach a
RPM of about 2000.
3. Wait until engine oil warms up to at least 30 deg C
and coolant temperature is at least 60 deg C.
4. Start taxiing when engine is warmed up. 3

Note: Attempting a takeoff with low oil or coolant

temperature can lead to dire consequences. Waiting for
proper engine warm-up is often overlooked by virtual
pilots and the engine leaves no room for error when
engine temperatures are concerned.

2
PART 4 – START-UP

31
 1a
Barometric Pressure
1a Setting (hPa)
KURFÜRST PRE-FLIGHT Caged Uncaged
2b
BF109K-4

1. Uncage the Artificial Horizon by rotating the

outer ring. In UNCAGED position, the Los
(Uncaged) letters should be at the bottom and
the Fest (Caged) letters should be at the top.
2. Use F10 key to display your map and airport
information. Adjust QFE (Barometric Pressure)
Setting to match the altimeter reading to the
airport elevation.
3. OPTIONAL: If desired, adjust your course setting
to the departure runway’s heading by rotating
the outer ring of the Repeater Compass.
4. Start taxiing when engine is warmed up.
Note: Attempting a takeoff with low oil temperature Altimeter (km)
can lead to dire consequences. Waiting for proper
engine warm-up is often overlooked by virtual pilots Barometric Pressure
and the engine leaves no room for error when engine (QFE) Setting Knob
temperatures are concerned.

2a
Course Setting: North by default Course Setting: Runway’s
Magnetic Heading (105)
3a
3b
PART 4 – START-UP

Course Setting: Runway’s

Magnetic Heading (105)

Aircraft Magnetic Heading: 105

Aircraft Magnetic Heading: 105 32
 Straighten your tailwheel before locking it
KURFÜRST TAXI PROCEDURE
BF109K-4

a) When taxiing, turn using toe brake pedals.

b) Lock your tailwheel lock if you want to go straight.
c) Unlock your tailwheel if you want to turn.
d) Counter engine torque by applying full right stick when throttling up.

TAKEOFF PROCEDURE
1) Line up on the runway tapping your toe brakes to turn. d
2) Make sure your tailwheel is straight by moving in a straight line to
straighten the wheel.
3) Lock your tailwheel (L-shaped = Locked).
4) Retract flaps. I recommend setting horizontal stabilizer Trim to either 0
or 1.
5) Make sure your radiator is set to AUTOMATIK (or OPEN if your engine
is getting too hot).
6) Set your stick fully right and slightly back to counter engine torque.
7) Slowly increase throttle to 2300-2400 RPM (1.35 ATA).
8) As you gain speed, keep your stick right but gradually push it forward
as you feel the nose going up.
• Note: The 109 is a superb climber, but stalls very easily on
takeoff if you don’t force the nose down.
9) Do not use your rudder to steer at low speeds, gently tap your brakes
PART 5 – TAKEOFF

instead.
10) The aircraft should rotate by itself naturally. Let the aircraft lift off
instead of looking at the speed gauge. Adjust stick to counter engine
torque accordingly.
• Nose down trim is often not enough to keep you completely
level at high RPMs. Keep that in mind when you leave the
ground.
11) Raise landing gear and maintain 270 km/h for optimal climb.

VIDEO DEMO:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXCGwgW6GNY Tailwheel Unlocked vs Tailwheel Locked (“L”-shaped)
33
 BF109K-4
PART 5 – TAKEOFF KURFÜRST

34
KURFÜRST LANDING PROCEDURE
BF109K-4

1. Line up with the runway and make sure to keep the runway centered with your nose.
2. Deploy landing gear, extend flaps, set radiator to AUF/OPEN and make sure your tailwheel is locked.
3. Keep your nose aimed to the end of the runway, not the beginning. You tend to go where you aim.
4. Approach the airfield with a speed of 220 km/h, and a sink rate between 2.5 and 5 m/s.
5. The 109 has a very narrow undercarriage. Try to land with as little slip on the slip indicator as possible as crab approaches are very dangerous… unless you have a lot of
experience.
6. Touchdown with a speed of 180 km/h with IDLE throttle. Do not start pulling on the stick to smack your tailwheel down: you can still generate enough thrust to bounce, stall
and crash if you are not careful.
7. Gently tap your brakes to steer the airplane on landing. Rudder input should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.
8. Tap brakes to slow down a bit more and come to a full stop. Remember: the undercarriage is very narrow so the aircraft is very sensitive to yaw and brake input on the ground.
PART 6 – LANDING

35
KURFÜRST LANDING PROCEDURE
BF109K-4

This picture sums up the landing procedure.

VIDEO DEMO:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kB3duv44jw0
PART 6 – LANDING

36
KURFÜRST Bf.109K-4 is powered by a 12-
BF109K-4

cylinder liquid-cooled supercharged

inverted Vee Daimler-Benz DB 605
piston engine. The engine is
equipped with a hydraulically-
driven single-stage centrifugal
supercharger with a MW-50
injection into the supercharger
intake. The engine spins a three
blade constant speed propeller.
PART 7 – ENGINE & FUEL MANAGEMENT

The powerplant consists of a

Daimler-Benz DB 605 engine that
delivers approximately 1,430
horsepower at 2,800 RPM at sea
level. This could be further
increased to 1850 horsepower by
the use of MW-50 water-methanol
injection. Maximum emergency
power in level flight was 1,600
horsepower at 2,800 RPM at 6000
meters.

37
 Oil Pressure Indicator (kg/cm2) Radiator Coolant Temperature Indicator
(Deg C)
KURFÜRST
RECOMMENDED ENGINE SETTINGS:
BF109K-4

TAKEOFF: 2700 RPM

LANDING: 1000 RPM
NORMAL OPERATION: 2300 RPM
GENERAL RULE FOR OIL & COOLANT TEMPERATURE:
You do not have to use your radiator flaps if they are set in Oil Temperature Indicator
AUTOMATIK. Only open them if you are having a hot engine and need (deg C)
to cool it down quickly. Fuel Pressure
Indicator (kg/cm2)
PART 7 – ENGINE & FUEL MANAGEMENT

ENGINE LIMITS:
Coolant Temperature: Min 30 deg C – Max 100 deg C
Oil Temperature: Min 30 deg C – Max 130 deg C
Oil Pressure: Min 3 kg/cm2 – Max 9.5 kg/cm2

Radiator Mode Selector

• Zu: Closed, Automation OFF. Propeller Pitch
• Auf: Open, Automation ON. Indicator
• Ruhe/Abgeschälte: Automation is OFF. Radiator
flaps remain fixed to current position.
• Automatik: Automatic Mode ON

Engine RPM/Umin x100

Supercharger Pressure Gauge (ATA)

Similar to Boost or Manifold Pressure
38
 BF109K-4
PART 7 – ENGINE & FUEL MANAGEMENT KURFÜRST

39
KURFÜRST MW-50 – WATER-METHANOL INJECTION
BF109K-4

• Water-Methanol is stocked in a separate tank and the mission builder chooses whether this tank can MW50 (MW Stoff) vs Fuel
be loaded with either regular fuel or with water-methanol mixture. Make sure MW-50 Mix is enabled (Kraftstoff) Selector Handle
in the MW/Fuel Tank via the Mission Editor, or else the tank will be filled with fuel and MW50 will not
be available.
• Ensure the fuel selector handle is properly set to MW STOFF if the MW-50 tank is filled with MW
mixture.
• Enable MW-50 using the MW-50 switch
PART 7 – ENGINE & FUEL MANAGEMENT

• RIGHT = ON, LEFT = OFF

• You will only see the MW-50 injection when you apply max throttle.
• You can check the MW-50 gauge to see if it is engaged.

MW-50 (Methanol-Wasser 50, or Water-

Methanol Injection) Switch
Left = Disabled
Right = Enabled

MW-50 ON MW-50 OFF 40

KURFÜRST
PROPELLER GOVERNOR AUTOMATION Propeller Pitch Manual Rocker Switch (Drehzahl)
BF109K-4

Größer = Finer = Increases RPM

The propeller pitch is usually automatically controlled by the Kleiner = Coarser = Decreases RPM
Propeller Governor. However, the governor can be manually
overridden via Governor Automation Switch located alongside
the throttle lever. The switch is normally set to the lower
(Automatic), but can be manually set to the upper (Manual)
position. That enables the "Drehzahl" Propeller Pitch Rocker
Switch on the throttle lever. It is recommended to keep the
Governor Automation Switch in the Automatic position during
PART 7 – ENGINE & FUEL MANAGEMENT

normal engine operation, and only switch to manual in case of

an emergency.
The "Drehzahl" Propeller Pitch Rocker Switch on the throttle
lever can be used to manually change propeller pitch when
the propeller automation is switched off. Then, the "Drehzahl"
rocker switch on the throttle can be moved to "Größer"
(Higher RPM) or "Kleiner" (Lower RPM). Holding the thumb
button in one of these positions continues to modify the prop
pitch for as long as the button is depressed, and until the limit
is reached. Therefore, this switch can be used to feather the
propeller.

Propeller Pitch Indicator

6:00 position: 100 % (Fine) Pitch
12:30 position: 0 % (Coarse) Pitch

Propeller Governor Automation Switch

Fwd: Manual Pitch Control
Aft: Automatic Pitch Control

41
KURFÜRST FUEL TANKS
BF109K-4

Fuel Capacity
Main Fuel Tank Capacity: 400 L (296 kg)

Note: A drop tank with a capacity of 300

liters can be installed under the fuselage
PART 7 – ENGINE & FUEL MANAGEMENT

Main Fuel Tank

42
 FUEL MANAGEMENT
KURFÜRST
BF109K-4

When a drop tank is used, it constantly feeds the main tank via a pressurized fuel hose. The
Fuel Contents Gauge will continue to display full for as long as the drop tanks continue to feed
the main tank. Once the drop tank is emptied, the fuel quantity in the main tank begins to
decrease. There is no fuel content information for drop tanks. The Fuel Warning Light
illuminates when the fuel level in the main tank reaches approximately 30 liters, equal to about
5 minutes of flight time.

Drop Tank Fuel Flow Transfer Indicator

Presence of bubbles means the drop tank’s fuel
PART 7 – ENGINE & FUEL MANAGEMENT

is transferring to the main fuel tank properly.

Fuel Quantity Indicator (Liters)

Capacity Main Tank: 400 L Low Fuel Quantity Warning Light
Illuminates when main tank is below 30
Liters (5 minutes of fuel).

Ordnance Emergency Release Lever

Jettisons Drop Tank
43
KURFÜRST FUEL DROP TANK OPERATION
BF109K-4

1. Fuel from the drop tank goes directly through the main fuel tank. You can monitor fuel flow being transferred
from the drop tank to the main tank. Presence of bubbles means the drop tank’s fuel is transferring to the
main fuel tank properly.
2. To jettison fuel drop tank, pull the “BOMBEN-NOTWURFGRIFF” (ORDNANCE JETTISON) lever.
PART 7 – ENGINE & FUEL MANAGEMENT

1
44
 BF109K-4
PART 8 – AIRCRAFT LIMITATIONS KURFÜRST

45
KURFÜRST
ARMAMENT OVERVIEW
BF109K-4

• 1 x Rheinmetall-Borsig MK-108 30 mm Motorkanone/Engine-Mounted Cannon (65 rounds)

• 2 x Rheinmetall-Borsig MG-131 13 mm Machineguns (300 rounds per gun)
• 1 x SC-500 kg bomb
• 1 x SC-250 kg bomb

MG 131
PART 9 – WEAPONS

MK 108

SC-500

46
KURFÜRST
REVI-16B GUNSIGHT
BF109K-4

• For weapons targeting, the Bf.109 came equipped with the standard Revi 16B gunsight that was installed on the vast majority of Luftwaffe combat aircraft.
• Reflector sights work by projecting an image of the targeting reticle onto the reflector glass such that the reticle appears at infinity, providing a fixed aiming point relative to
the weapon's line of fire. Alternatively, you can use the Mechanical Sight to aim.
• When using the Revi 16B in combat, the pilot must independently make corrections for the target lead and distance, G-loads, and other parameters necessary for accurate
fire.

Reticle Mechanical Sight

PART 9 – WEAPONS

Click to Stow

47
 Cannon Safety Cover Bomb Release Mode Selector Switch
WEAPON CONTROLS • Left side: Dive Bombing (Sturz)
KURFÜRST • LSHIFT+SPACE binding
• MV: Mit Verzögerung (with delay)
BF109K-4

MK-108 30 mm Cannon/Rockets (B1) Button

• RALT+SPACE binding • OV: Ohne Verzögerung (without delay)
• Right side: Level Bombing (Wagerecht)
• MV: Mit Verzögerung (with delay)
• OV: Ohne Verzögerung (without delay)
• Middle: Aus (Disarmed)

Bomb Release (B2) Button

• RSHIFT+SPACE binding
PART 9 – WEAPONS

MG-131 Machinegun (A) Button

• SPACE binding

MK-108 30 mm Cannon Charge (D) Button

• LALT+SPACE binding

48
KURFÜRST
WEAPON EMPLOYMENT (CANNONS + MACHINEGUNS) 5b
BF109K-4

1. Arm your two MG131 machineguns using the MASTER ARM (Weapons) switch (UP = ON, DOWN = OFF)
2. Set your ammo counters manually to 3 notches (WHITE = ammo available for machineguns only). Left click and 5a
drag on the rotary knobs. This should be done on ground.
3. Arm MK108 cannon (switch in left position for cannon, right position for rockets)
4. Press the MK108 Cannon Charge Button (D) for a few seconds to charge air pressure in the MK108 cannon’s
pneumatic system. Binding is “LALT+SPACE” (CHARGE MK 108 (D)).
5. Flip trigger safety using LSHIFT+SPACE.
6. Fire Weapons when ready
• Machineguns = “FIRE MACHINEGUNS (A)” = SPACE
• CANNONS = “FIRE CANNON/ROCKET (B)” = RALT+SPACE

MG-131 Machinegun (A) Button

• SPACE binding

MK-108 30 mm Cannon/Rockets (B1) Button

• RALT+SPACE binding
SAFETY ON SAFETY OFF
1
PART 9 – WEAPONS

4
2
MK-108 30 mm Cannon Charge (D) Button
49
• LALT+SPACE binding
KURFÜRST
WEAPON EMPLOYMENT (CANNONS + MACHINEGUNS)
BF109K-4
PART 9 – WEAPONS

50
 Bomb Release Mode Selector Switch
KURFÜRST
WEAPON EMPLOYMENT (BOMBS) • Left side: Dive Bombing (Sturz)
• MV: Mit Verzögerung (with delay)
BF109K-4

1. Make sure Ordnance Breaker V101 is ON • OV: Ohne Verzögerung (without delay)
2. Choose bomb release mode • Right side: Level Bombing (Wagerecht)
• LEFT SIDE (RED) = STURZ = DIVE BOMBING • MV: Mit Verzögerung (with delay)
• RIGHT SIDE (GREEN) = WAGERECHT = LEVEL BOMBING • OV: Ohne Verzögerung (without delay)
3. Choose desired fuse delay • Middle: Aus (Disarmed)
• MV = Mit Verzögerung = With Delay
5
• OV = Ohne Verzögerung = Without Delay
4. Select appropriate release mode on console. As an example, we have chosen MV
WAGERECHT, which is a bomb with delay used for level bombing. Bomb Armed
5. Release bomb using the “BOMB RELEASE (B2)” button (RSHIFT+SPACE).
PART 9 – WEAPONS

2
Bomb Loaded
1

51
 BF109K-4
PART 9 – WEAPONS KURFÜRST

52
 The Bf.109K-4 is equipped with a FUG 16ZY radio transmitter and receiver. Push-to-Talk Switch 4
AIRFIELD FREQUENCY
KURFÜRST Radio frequencies are preset in the mission editor in 4 different channels and
cannot be tuned manually during flight. Anapa 38.40 MHz
BF109K-4

1. Set FUG 16ZY Power Switch (F135) ON. Batumi 40.40 MHz

2. □
Set radio channel selector to the desired frequency (I, II, Δ or ). Beslan 42.40 MHz
• See note on next page about the real-life functions of these Gelendzhik 39.40 MHz
frequencies.
3. Set radio mode to “FT” (FUNKTELEFONIE = RADIO TELEPHONY) Gudauta 40.20 MHz
4. Press the Push-to-Talk switch on your throttle to transmit (“COMM Kobuleti 40.80 MHz
PUSH TO TALK” CONTROL, or “RALT+\”)
Kutaisi 41.00 MHz
FuG 16ZY Radio Frequency
Selector Switch
FuG 16ZY Radio Receiver Fine RADIO FREQUENCY Krasnodar-Center 38.60 MHz

2
Tuning Knob (+/- 30 kHz)
RANGE: 38.4- 42.4 MHz Krasnodar-Pashkovsky 39.80 MHz
Krymsk 39.00 MHz
Maykop 39.20 MHz
Mineralnye Vody 41.20 MHz
1
Mozdok 41.60 MHz
Nalchik 41.40 MHz
Novorossiysk 38.80 MHz
PART 10 – RADIO

Senaki 40.60 MHz

Sochi 39.60 MHz
Soganlug 42.00 MHz
3
Sukhumi 40.00 MHz
FuG 16ZY Radio FuG 16ZY Radio Homing Selector Switch
Volume Control Ft: Funktelefonie / Radio Telephony Tbilisi 41.80 MHz
Y-ZF: Zwischenfrequenz Intermediate Frequency / Frequency Tuning
Vaziani 42.20 MHz
53
 The "I" position is for "Y-Führungsfrequenz", or Management frequency, is used for communication
KURFÜRST within the flight or squadron. A mission maker will typically preset this frequency to the same
BF109K-4

frequency used by your wingmen of your flight and mention it in the mission briefing.

The "II" position is for "Gruppenbefehlsfrequenz", or Group Order frequency, is used to

communicate between several flights from different squadrons participating in a single raid. A
mission maker will typically preset this frequency to the same frequency used by other flights or
friendly units and mention it in the mission briefing.

The "Δ" position is for "Nah-Flugsicherungsfrequenz", or the Air Traffic Control frequency. It is used
to communicate with the designated Air Traffic Controller. A mission maker will typically preset this
frequency to the same frequency used by your departure airfield and mention it in the mission
briefing.

The "□" position is for "Reichsjägerfrequenz", or Reich Fighter Defense Frequency, and is used to
coordinate country-wide air defense efforts in large scale raids.
PART 10 – RADIO

54
KURFÜRST
BF109K-4
The Repeater Compass
Most of the navigation must be done visually in the FW190. Consult the Repeater Gyrocompass.

If desired, you can adjust your course setting by rotating the outer ring of the Repeater Compass. You can then steer the aircraft until the Aircraft Magnetic Heading needle (front
of the airplane symbol) is lined up with the Course Setting reference mark.

Airplane Symbol (points towards

your magnetic heading)

Course Setting (Can be adjusted by

Repeater Compass rotating the outer compass ring)
PART 11 – NAVIGATION

Aircraft Magnetic Heading: 290

55
KURFÜRST
AFN-2 Homing: 5
1) AFN-2 Frequency must be set via Mission Editor prior
BF109K-4

to flight
The AFN-2 Homing Indicator can be
2) Set FuG 16ZY Power Switch (F135) ON.
used to track beacons. It is used in
3) Select Preset Channel II
conjunction with the FUG 16 radio
4) Select “Y-ZF” (Zwischenfrequenz = Intermediate
system and it uses a preset frequency
Frequency) Homing Mode
as well that is set with the mission
5) Track beacon using the indicator by centering the
editor. Currently, AFN-2 navigation is
AFN-2 Indicator’s vertical needle (direction of
not yet modelled in DCS.
beacon). Your distance to the beacon can be
determined by watching the horizontal needle (Signal
Intensity/Beacon Distance: Low = FAR, High = NEAR)

AFN-2 Homing Indicator

2
3
PART 11 – NAVIGATION

56
1
KURFÜRST The Bf.109K-4 variant modelled in DCS is one of the deadliest WWII
fighters when flown properly.
BF109K-4

The way to fly a Bf.109 is pretty much the same in every simulator:
keep your energy state high (meaning that you must keep your
airspeed and your altitude up) at all times and avoid turning with an
enemy fighter that turns hard to try to make you bleed your energy. In
most situations, a Bf.109 will easily outclimb a P-51 Mustang or a
Spitfire. Use this to your advantage.

The 109 is first and foremost an energy fighter. In combat, a pilot is

faced with a variety of limiting factors. Some limitations are constant
such as gravity, drag, and thrust-to-weight-ratio. Other limitations vary
with speed and altitude, such as turn radius, turn rate, and the
specific energy of the aircraft. The fighter pilot uses BFM (Basic Flight
Manoeuvers) to turn these limitations into tactical advantages. A
faster, heavier aircraft may not be able to evade a more maneuverable
aircraft in a turning battle (like the Spitfire), but can often choose to
break off the fight and escape by diving or using its thrust to provide a
speed advantage. A lighter, more maneuverable aircraft can not
PART 12 – AIR COMBAT

usually choose to escape, but must use its smaller turning radius at
higher speeds to evade the attacker's guns, and to try to circle around
behind the attacker. This is the principle behind “energy fighting”: use
boom and zoom tactics instead of trying to turn with an enemy
aircraft that has a smaller turn radius.

The 109 is blessed with a very high power-to-weight ratio, meaning

that it has a great acceleration. It is equally quite manoeuverable and
can reach higher airspeeds than the Mustang at altitudes under
20,000 ft (6 km). I would recommend avoiding dogfights above these
altitudes since this is where the Mustang has the advantage.

57
 Taming taildraggers is much more difficult than meets the eye, especially during the takeoff and landing phase. Here is a useful and insightful essay
KURFÜRST
on the art of flying taildraggers wonderfully written by Chief Instructor. I highly recommend you give it a read.
BF109K-4

Link: https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B-uSpZROuEd3V3Jkd2pfa0xRRW8
PART 13 – TAMING TAILDRAGGERS

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