genral rule is a club member can bring a guest(s) down and let them run on the layout so long as the member stays with them when operating a train. If you do bring a loco down I would prefer a DCC loco. Reason I say this is that. I would have you follow another member that is also on DCC and we wont have to watch our "blocks" as closely. More time for me to explain the layout to you. Some times when I am running 80 car train and letting a visitor run, its kinda hard to keep tabs on the blocks ahead of us, making sure the rear of the train is still with us, looking for switch positions, and watching traffic around the next bend. having a DCC train in front of us helps with this knowing the next block is ready for us. then we just look for the cabosse and maintain our distance. we can then chat and note how things work.
I want to get down there soon but work and some auto body projects are on the to do list.
Im busy this weekend, the following weekend im gone for work. then the next weekend is a car show. then gone for work again...Aggggg I need more time. I figure next time im down there is about a month away. If I do get free time I will let you know... I enjoy showing the layout to guests. Its a big part of the hobby....
Trent