I'm brand new at RC. I have a Great Planes TR 40 trainer, and I'm working with FMS simulator right now. However, I dont have a TR 40 model in my software. Does anyone have such a model that they can send me a copy of? Or, failing that, which of the popular models available would be a close match for my plane. I'd hate to spend hours on the simulator only to find that my plane doesnt have any of the same flight characteristics.

Any help or advice will be deeply appreciated.

From what I have been told there is little difference in the trainers. I believe this true because I could see little difference between my Nexstar and my Tower 40.

The MAJORITY of trainers fly the same. I would suggest just pick a trainer, ideally, with the same size engine as you have in yours (40 or 46) since there will be a noticeable difference in power.

DO NOT TRY TO TEACH YOURSELF TO FLY. A simulator is a GREAT TOOL, and it will help you a great deal, but there is a BIG difference between a sim and actually flying the plane. The USUAL flight duration of someone teaching themselves to fly is under 30 seconds and USUALLY results in "rekitting" the plane. In addition, teaching yourself is usually a steep learning curve and quite frustrating (not to mention expensive).

Get an instructor. Local clubs normally provide instructors at no cost to you. If you do not know of any local clubs, talk to your LHS (Local Hobby Shop), they should be able to provide you with a club(s) name and usually a contact person.