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More than happy to do so @bsft if @lioxacydak1 will stop spamming lists and, as initially requested start their own thread and give some info about what they plan rather than just posting questions: http://www.xsimulator.net/community/threads/download-plugins-with-coins.5289/page-5#post-77352

Welcome @GTHQ_koop, post some pictures and video once you get it all running and remember you can also seek advice from community members.

Good luck with your new sim!

Welcome @EFFalcon.

There is enough here to keep you reading for many weeks yet. I will be looking forward to your build thread when you get started.

Actually it is a good idea to start a thread early @EFFalcon, even while you are kicking around ideas and making up parts lists. That way the community can lend their collective expertise, comment and point out things you may not have thought of, as well as advising on potential components. It can save you time, frustration and money.

Welcome @Ben V

You have come to the right place for motion simulation software, information and support from a very active community and an electrical background and workshop are great assets to have!

Have a look at existing member builds for ideas and inspiration, it could well help you refine what you may like to do for your own project, though a 2DOF is a great place to start and can easily be expanded to include traction loss later: http://www.xsimulator.net/community/forums/diy-motion-simulator-projects.22/

You will find the FAQ section covers some more specific topic areas, like types of simulators, designs and motors: http://www.xsimulator.net/community/faq/

If you are having a hard time understanding terms or acronyms then have a look at the Glossary of Acronyms and Names: http://www.xsimulator.net/community/faq/glossary-of-acronyms-and-names.66/

When you are ready please start your own project thread.

On your thread do ask questions, there is a lot to take in but the community is good at giving tips during planning, reviewing purchase lists, giving feedback and encouragement during the build and providing advice on actually sorting out motion profiles.

And don't forget to take a moment and add yourself to the Member Map: http://www.xsimulator.net/community/memberMap/

Good luck with your project.

Welcome @rotachoc

Whats involved in building one?

To get an idea of what is involved in building a motion simulator have a look through the FAQs and existing member build threads:

http://www.xsimulator.net/community/faq/

http://www.xsimulator.net/community/forums/diy-motion-simulator-projects.22/

Is a complete parts lists on the site to build one?

Not exactly. Many people will list the parts they use in their build thread and parts do depend on what design you chose, where you intend sourcing motors, what power supplies you end up choosing. But don't panic, the active community members can assist you in formulating a plan of what you want to build and what parts would be need to build it. You will first need to have a look at the links relating to Q1, to get an idea of what you want to build, then start your own build thread so all your questions are in one place.

My budget is $1500-$2000?

You will be able to build a good DIY motion simulator within your budget.

Or should I just buy one for that kind of money?

You will not be able to buy a good commercial motion simulator within your budget, it would likely be closer to twice that or more, depending on what you planned to purchase.

Welcome @Seth2Christ.

Please do start a thread and post some pictures and if possible a video of your 2DOF simulator, members here would be most interested, have you tried it with SimTools yet?