You have to use the AH film viewer to watch .ahf films. The film viewer is in the AH folder.
When you try using numpad 8 did you adjust the view using the page down, and arrow keys? I just tried it in a 38J and I can see the gauges and ammo counters.
Just so we are on the same page the eight way hat switch is the same as the 1,4,7,8,9,6,3,2 on your numpad with 8 being the forward hat switch press, and 2 being your rear hat switch press.
Again if you would like to meet up in the TA I can better assist you in setting up your views, and any other questions you might have. I'm much better at talking someone through things than I am at typing them through it. As far as I know you don't need a paid subscription to use the TA.

Sik