Hi Jim, welcome to the Microsoft community, my name is Bruno Leonel, I am happy to help you.
I understand that you're having trouble using the Thrustmaster Flight Stick X controller and I'm really sorry about that. I will try to help you in the best possible way.
Initially I suggest installing the controller driver through the website:
https://support.thrustmaster.com/en/product/tfl...
NOTE: If this is not the correct model, search the website for the model you have.
Check if the controller works again. If it doesn't work, check the steps below:
Step 1
Game Controller.
Press Windows + R keys.
Type: joy.cpl confirm with OK.
Try configuring the Joystick.
step 2
If you are playing Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, see below a tutorial to configure the controller.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CxVJXS6NlM0
Also check the link below:
https://forums.flightsimulator.com/t/how-to-con...
Standard disclaimer: There are links to non-Microsoft sites. The pages appear to provide accurate and secure information. Watch out for ads on sites that can advertise products often classified as PUPs (potentially unwanted products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the websites before deciding to download and install it.
If the above steps do not work, I recommend contacting the manufacturer and checking for a more up-to-date driver.
https://www.thrustmaster.com/en-us/support/
If the answer helped in any way, please mark it as an answer, if your question has not been solved, please post again.
I hope I helped, see you later!