So I completed the second install. I couldn't do it from the original CD because it detected that I already had F-18 installed but I used the full install from
http://www.vfa-41.net/FA-18_Utilities.php and installed it to a new directory - all looks great and works well!
What's the go with mods such as skins, explosions/AB/flares enhancements, landpal etc and multiplayer - do they interfere?
I have them all set up with JSGME so can add or remove them anytime which is useful.
Keen for some online missions if anyone is interested...