Sim Racing Cockpit Assembly: Step-by-Step Guide
By SimXPro l Sim Racing Shop | Published: 2026-10-17
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to build your sim racing cockpit with this practical step-by-step guide. Avoid common mistakes and get your rig set up correctly the first time.
Quick Answer
Assembling a sim racing cockpit is a straightforward process if you follow the right order: start with the main frame, then add the seat, wheel mount, and pedal tray. The SimXPro GT and XT series use aluminum profiles and T-nuts, so you can adjust everything later. The most common mistake is tightening bolts too early before aligning all parts.
What You Need Before Starting
Before you open the boxes, make sure you have a clean, level workspace with enough room to lay out the aluminum profiles and hardware. The SimXPro GT cockpit uses 4040 aluminum-profile construction, which is strong but requires you to slide T-nuts into the channels before tightening. Have a metric Allen key set (typically 4mm, 5mm, and 6mm) and a torque wrench if you want to be precise. Do not use power tools — hand-tightening gives you better feel and prevents stripping threads.
Lay out all parts and hardware bags. The SimXPro XT120 + Single Monitor Stand Bundle includes separate boxes for the cockpit and the monitor stand, so open both and identify each component. Check that you have all the T-nuts, bolts, washers, and end caps before you start. Missing a part mid-build is frustrating, and it is easier to spot gaps early.
Understanding the Assembly Sequence
The correct order saves you from having to loosen and re-tighten bolts later. Start with the base frame — the two side profiles and the cross members that form the rectangle. Attach the pedal tray bracket loosely so it can slide. Then mount the uprights for the wheel deck and the seat brackets. Only after all profiles are connected and aligned should you tighten every bolt to the recommended torque.
If you are building a SimXPro XT160 Complete Cockpit Bundle + GTR Seat, the integrated monitor mount attaches to the same uprights as the wheel deck. Install the monitor mount bracket before you tighten the wheel deck bolts — you will not be able to slide it on afterward. This is a common oversight that forces partial disassembly.
Assembly Steps
- Build the Base Frame: Connect the two long side profiles with the shorter cross members to form a rectangle. Insert T-nuts into the channels before bolting — once a bolt is tight, you cannot add a T-nut to that section. Leave all bolts finger-tight so the frame can shift slightly. Checkpoint: The base should sit flat on the floor. If it rocks, loosen the cross-member bolts and adjust until all four corners touch the ground evenly.
- Install the Pedal Tray Bracket: Attach the pedal tray bracket to the front of the base frame. Slide the T-nuts into the channels on the side profiles, then bolt the bracket in place. Keep the bolts loose so you can adjust the angle and distance later. Common mistake: Tightening the pedal bracket too early makes it impossible to slide the tray forward or backward without loosening everything. Leave it loose until you have your pedals mounted and your leg reach set.
- Mount the Wheel Deck Uprights: Attach the vertical uprights to the base frame using T-nuts and bolts. These uprights support the wheel deck and, on some models like the XT160, the monitor mount. Ensure both uprights are parallel and at the same height before tightening. Checkpoint: Measure the distance between the uprights at the top and bottom. If they differ by more than 2mm, the wheel deck will not bolt on straight. Loosen and adjust before moving on.
- Attach the Seat Brackets: Bolt the seat brackets to the base frame at the rear. If you are using the SimXPro GTR Seat with universal side mounts and slider, attach the slider to the seat first, then mount the slider to the brackets. This gives you fore-aft adjustment without tools. Common mistake: Forgetting to install the seat slider before bolting the brackets to the frame. You cannot slide the slider onto the brackets after they are tightened — it must be assembled in order.
- Mount the Wheel Deck and Monitor Stand: Attach the wheel deck plate to the uprights. If your cockpit includes an integrated monitor mount (like the XT160), install the monitor bracket on the same uprights before you tighten the wheel deck. For the XT120 with a separate monitor stand, position the stand next to the cockpit and level it independently. Checkpoint: The wheel deck should be level side-to-side. Use a spirit level on the plate. If it tilts, one upright is higher — loosen the bolts on that side and tap it down with a rubber mallet.
- Tighten All Bolts and Add Accessories: Once every component is aligned and adjusted to your preferred position, go through every bolt and tighten it to a firm hand-tight (about 10-12 Nm if you have a torque wrench). Install end caps on exposed profile ends for safety and a clean look. Route cables along the profiles using adhesive clips before they get tangled. Final tip: Do a wiggle test — grab the wheel deck and seat and try to rock the rig. If anything moves, that joint needs more torque. A rigid cockpit eliminates flex and improves your lap consistency.
Product Facts
- SimXPro GT - Sim Racing Cockpit: The SimXPro GT brings the strength, adjustability and upgrade potential of an aluminium-profile sim racing cockpit into a compact and highly competitive package. Designed as the most accessible model in the SimXPro GT Series, it is an ideal starting point for drivers building their first dedicated rig or moving on from a desk and wheel stand. Its 4040 aluminium-profile construction provides a stable foundation. Because the GT uses 4040 profiles and T-nuts, you can adjust the wheel deck height, pedal angle, and seat position after assembly. This is especially useful if you share the rig or are still dialing in your driving position.
