Recent content by gmbrd

Wow, may I ask how long you have been practicing model railroading? I am amazed at how much time I spend at this. It took me a year and a half of building a layout to realize that it wasn't the configuration I wanted. Tear it down and start over. And I loved doing it! And I'm sure...

Yes /shamus, I really would like to see some photos. I admire your work.

Thank you all for the great input. This forum is the greatest! I usually just read it but when I post a question or problem I get super results, thanks again. Oh, and Shamus, thank you for the track plan. I was trying to figure a way to get a trestle or overpass in and you did it for me.

jkristia- Yes, all parts are accessible. The yard section is 24" wide.

Hi everyone, I have decided to build a new layout and I would greatly appreciate any ideas constructive or otherwise about track placement and wiring from you all. Here is the configuration I've chosen. It is DCC, HO, 20x9 and basically a dogbone with a yard and a timesaver right now. I love...

Thank you vic. That was beautifully said and answered the question perfectly! Thanks again.

I jst completed a campbell kit. The coaling station. Where does one put such a large structure? Close to the engine maintenance buildings? Your thoughts please.

Thanks vic, That's what I think I'll do. I live in the sticks so I have to wait to get an order together and buy online. The S&H makes cheap items expensive.

I'm thinking of installing Caboose Ind. ground throws 202 series but I can't find the actual footprint. I use Atlas custom #4 turnouts and am planning a tight ladder yard (2 inch centers). Can I install the turnouts end to end and still have room for the ground throws? I do hope this is...

Staging yard. Hidden? Inside scenery, 5' dia. multiple track loop? Would that be considered a staging yard? Or would it have to be visible and easily reached?

Thanx sumpter250, your the only one to take the bait. That is what I was looking for. Not very good at expressing myself.

Hi all! I'm on a roll here. My next question is about overhead lighting or just lights in general. I have a 10X30 room with 6 shoplight fixtures. It is quite bright with no shadows. Is this OK or should I do something different?

I am myself totally obsessed with the yard. I don't know why. I even dream of it, the cars the signals the trash and stuff along the tracks and the smell. The smell is intoxicating. I think I may have a problem ;) ;)

Thanks guys, I also agree 100% but what I was fishing for was YOUR personal musts for YOUR layout. I know there is a lot of difference here.

What do you think are the absolute musts for a model railroad layout? A yard, station, figures...???