@KillerJackson82
Did clean community folder test (and deleted Content.xml) after all those checks and still the same. RAM usage never gets near the 16gb internal (flat at about 10gb). Played with Resource Monitor open and nothing is spiking in harmony with the freezes.
Still got spinning White graphic for ages (6+ minutes) before I can set off. FPS is 21-27 fluctuating until the wheel goes away, then I get my 30fps back.
One thing I noticed, flying the F-16, each time after a freeze, the HUD in the aircraft flashes a brighter green for a moment. Not sure if that’s a clue or a “Green Herring” 