Thanks for the comments, guys. Truth is, I'm just an ordinary modeler that's still growing in the hobby and having a great time doing it. Roman, the pics you linked to are fantastic. Thanks for posting the link.
As for the Platte Canyon Sub, here's a short update. Our last major expenditure was for a Digitrax Super Chief DCC system. We have two throttles, a DT400 and DT300. There's still a few UP5 throttle panels to install in hard to reach areas (future staging, etc). Since it's installation, I've been working (learning thru the school of hard knocks) on some advanced lighting for our GP30's and the SW1200. I just finished the second Geep a few minutes ago. The SW has a rotating beacon and the Geeps have lower headlights and ditchlights. I'm amazed at the "super detailing" effect of DCC lighting effects! We're looking forward to the release of Digitrax sound decoders as well.
See edit below for staging update!Next on the list will be to complete the staging yards. As it stands now, we'll probably use stationary decoders to control the turnouts and will need some sort of train detection for each track as the yards will all be behind the backdrop. We've been doing condensed operating sessions and are having a blast. When fully staged, the layout should be really fun to operate! Fellow board member Cjcrescent was kind enough to give us a copy of a computerized operations program that a friend of his wrote. It's very detailed and keeps track of each piece of rolling stock on a layout. It also shows how much money the RR is making along the way and which industry gets which loads. I'm looking forward to getting our data entered into it. It, and the DT300/400 fast clocks, should really add to the operation of the layout!
Scenery is mostly complete but we're still adding a few trees, and detail items such as trackside buildings, flange oilers, etc. The last item currently on the "to do" list is installing signals. From some very informative posts here on the forum, I think we'll go with Logic Rail Technologies Block Animators for signal control and Sunrise Enterprises signals. We're both really looking forward to having the visable parts of the RR signaled. They should add alot of realism when running trains.
It's been a fun journey and I'm glad to be able to share it with everyone here.
And, of course, a few new pics...
Switch job at Inland Cement.
Super Chief!
GP7 helper pair being cutout of a train for their light run home.
GP30 in the mine district.
And my favorite Platte Canyon Sub pic to date, my little guy running trains.
ETA a link to the PCS staging saga... http://www.modelrailroadforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2518&page=1&pp=10
Hidden staging train indication panel.
North/South staging yards.
Loaded West yard.