Sky High 2 VFR on Top communication?

I have just completed (passed) the Scenario 2.
I chose the third option for leaving TOAS where the briefing says specifically:
"Do not file IFR, simply call ATC and request a “climb to VFR on top” and let them issue the clearance. Let them know you plan to climb to 12,500 if you use this option."
I did this (and repeated it word for word) but the controller (who tried really hard) insisted I needed an IFR for this and it had to be at 12,000. I felt this was wrong.
What made it worse was I had pre-filed my IFR leg from Brazo so 1) that got amended and then 2) when I needed it approaching Brazo it wasn't there!
One other problem. I am struggling to file flight plans through the new P3D app. I keep getting error messages 'number expected'. Problem is it does not tell you which field is not as expected. Can this be debugged or desensitized in some way?
Great experience though. And after 2 hours when my engines cut out on finals to Durango I screamed - but got on the ground - just!
The cowboy poetry was moving!
I chose the third option for leaving TOAS where the briefing says specifically:
"Do not file IFR, simply call ATC and request a “climb to VFR on top” and let them issue the clearance. Let them know you plan to climb to 12,500 if you use this option."
I did this (and repeated it word for word) but the controller (who tried really hard) insisted I needed an IFR for this and it had to be at 12,000. I felt this was wrong.
What made it worse was I had pre-filed my IFR leg from Brazo so 1) that got amended and then 2) when I needed it approaching Brazo it wasn't there!
One other problem. I am struggling to file flight plans through the new P3D app. I keep getting error messages 'number expected'. Problem is it does not tell you which field is not as expected. Can this be debugged or desensitized in some way?
Great experience though. And after 2 hours when my engines cut out on finals to Durango I screamed - but got on the ground - just!
The cowboy poetry was moving!