Hello,
I too followed the complete new install method PAL outlined on the 2nd page of the posting. I use C:\4.12.2 Pre DBW2 as my game directory, and loaded all the mods into it as outlined. I patched the HSFX up to 7.02 [tried using the Auto updater to bring it to 7.03, with no success - splash screen still reads 7.02] I set up the Activators for each pre-installed mod as outlined in the Read me.
When I click on the 'Launch Il-2 now" button in the TM-3 screen, for DBW, DBW 1916. and Pre DBW2, I see the corresponding splash screen, with 5% load for a few seconds, then closes. For HSFX7 and Mod Act 5.3, they apparently fully load as I see the initial screen, but upon clicking 'Fly', a 'Data file corrupt' message appears. Also, both of these have a message, "This is a 16 flight mission (v 4.10) at the bottom of the screen - would expect to see 4.12[?]. Selecting pure UP3.0 is nothing, though I did have the splash 5%/close at least once in my meanderings trying to get things started.
I removed the Il.2exe file from the game folder as directed, so seem to have followed all the directives laid out, but apparently not. As others have encountered some difficulties, hopefully PAL or a knowledgeable forum member can offer some trouble shooting advise for us to try.
Thanks much for any help getting Pre DBW2 to run.
p3