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If you want walk around, you need to buy an extra throttle, as the Zephyr (DCS50) is more in the style of the old powerpack. You can buy jacks from Digitrax or wire your own 6P6C telco jacks for a couple of dollars each. As far as using a computer in combination with the Zephyr, I do not...

Russ, Those are "demonstrators" that the (prototype) manufacturers painted in RR colours, hoping to influence management to buy the units. The manufacturer has run them over to the main shops, and is letting the RR "test drive" them... ;) :D Andrew

Actually, I think it looks good. And there's one very good reason NOT to start with DullCote. If you want to use an alcohol/India ink wash, it will turn the DullCote milky/cloudy. That's ok if that's what you're looking for, but it can be quite alarming if you're not expecting it! ;) Andrew

I agree with you on the road-centric focus that happened in NA, but you have to remember that we've never had the population densities of Europe, which are considered key to public transportation. Historically though, this cycle has been repeated over and over as new technology comes along...

No problem. In fact, with changes to the basic frame, you can create scenery that extends above and below the track. We have some pretty spectacular scenery at www.hotrak.ca (not sure on the current status of the web site, as it is being rebuilt). And you don't need to restrict foam...

Kent, Check out the module building clinic at Railways of Eastern Ontario - Welcome. That's how I build - in the author's basement no less! :) Andrew

If you are operating with DCC, and want sounds to come from the locomotives, I would suggest on-board sound decoders. :thumb: If you are looking for "ambient" or "environmental" sounds, then something like the MRC town&country (or whatever they call it) might be good. However, with MP3...

Sure, MDF is dimensionally stable, but it is not realtively strong in large panels, especially for its weight. A lot of bracing or underlying benchwork will be required. Use the foam as the benchwork. You can use 2" foam, set into a 1x4 or 1x5 pine frame, with bracing every two feet (i.e. built...

doctorwayne is also a good source of information, and has a number of step-by-steps here with plenty of pictures. You might also search locally for someone in a club or hobby shop in your area that could take on the work. Andrew

I watch Corner Gas from time to time. Not many of those "prairie giants" left these days. I am not sure if the name was actually painted on, or digitally added after the fact. The real town is Rouleau, SK, and appears to be served by Canadian Pacific Rwy. EDIT - Looks like TinGoat beat me...

Bud, Not sure whose rock moulds you have, but did you follow their directions? Usually some sort of release is required (light coating of vegetable oil, or sometimes a dusting of dry plaster before pouring - check your product). The other key to getting the rocks out and onto the layout is...

Keep in mind that (generally speaking) rail joiners are used for mechanical connections. The most reliable electrical connection comes from soldering siad rail joiner in place, or by soldering feeders directly to the rail. Andrew

I am glad for you that I have been proven wrong...! ;) :D Andrew

I don't think it really matters. THe pliers are always shown cutting top to bottom, but I've used them on installed track where the only option is side to side, and it seems to still make a flush cut. Dressing the edge with a file is always a good idea anyway. And remember to put the flat side...

Bud, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but I don't think that there's anything that will get India ink out. I start all my weathering clinics for the local clubs with a very loud, oft repeated warning that your mother/wife/landlord/significant-other/etc will not be pleased if you...

If you want to try making your own windows, build them right onto an oversized piece of wax paper. You can scribe lines on the paper with a sharp point (don't press too hard) to help you get the windows the right size and keep them square. Then glue the components directly to the paper (i.e...

I think you mean viaduct... Aqueducts carry water. With your larger plan, you do not have a way to cross back from the inside loop without backing up. If you add another crossover, you also create a run around, which will be necessary for single train operation given that you have both facing...

You really can't go wrong when you follow the prototypical layout of a yard. I agree with all the answers here, and only have a few things to add... Your shortest double-ended track looks like about 2 feet or 4 cars on Squid's plan. You could extend the left side of that plan, if the...

David, You said: but previously you said: I think that a more representative layout would better serve the kids (and all residents) in their understanding of their town's history and the importance of the railway. There is still lots of action in a yard; this however assumes that...

Hi David, Looks like you've been to visit railwaybob's site...! He's got some great tips and methods for building modules. They are remarkably strong and lightweight. My one comment would (currently) be on the proposed 6x8 "donut" shaped sectional plan. I don't know if you've been working...