B744 Control Column behavior

[Michelmvd]

I'm in the middle of constructing my home cockpit, which must become a simulation of the B744 one. http://www.projectmagenta.com/references/lvandaele.jpg
Next fase is now the construction of a good replica of the control column. I'm aware of most of its measurements (height +/- 76 cm) but with that height the column is sometimes blocking the view of the PFD/ND when pushed down?

I'm looking for the comments of real life B744 Capt's or F/O's to know its exact behavior.
Can it also be a problem with the distance of my seat?
Hopes on most appreciated comments. Thanks alot
Michel

[Dan Winterland]

Yes, it can block the view of the lower part of the PFD, even in it's mid position. The Classic is even worse. If you use the eye position markings, you can hardly see the HSI at all. I tend to sit a bit higher as a result.

As the control column is used for about only about 1% of the flight, it would be much better positioned to the side - as in the Airbus, thus leaving useful space for the important things such as eating and reading the newspaper. :ok: