Lionel What was I thinking?

[PRROgaugeR]

Hello everyone! I'm new here and new to O Guage as well. I have no idea what I was thinking when I decided to do O Guage. To me as a newcomer Lionel makes it so difficult when it should all be easy. I mean you have Lionchief, Vision and Legacy. I wanted to jump right in, but I think I bit off more than I can chew. Here is what I'm starting out with.

685416 - Pennsylvania Flyer Electric O Gauge Bluetooth 5.0
685417 - The Polar Express Electric O Gauge Bluetooth 5.0
2335110 - The Polar Express LionChief Plus 2.0 Budd RDC unit combo
2631050 - PRR Legacy K4 1361

And I bought this thinking it would be easy and fun, I think I was wrong.
683173 - Signal Bridge

I did read the instructions but still confused. I'm using FasTrack.

Every manual I read says something about TCC or TMCC but I can't find anything on Lionel's web-site. I'd like to be able to run all my trains Lionchief, Legacy etc. on one layout if that's even possible.

Help any please!! I'm just so confused.

Thanks!

Steve

 

[santafewillie]

Steve - I am unable to assist, but if you edit the thread title to include the word "Lionel", our resident Lionel expert Louis might notice it and jump in.

 

[PRROgaugeR]

Thanks, I'll do that!

 

[Bruette]

I wouldn't call myself an expert, but I do enjoy playing with my Lionel Trains. With a little more information I will be able to help you.

Are you running either a Legacy or TMCC controller? Or just using what came with the sets?

Do you have two separate ovals (one from each set) or have you combined the two?

Have you bought something to activate the signal bridge?

I love these sets and I'm drooling over that K4!

 

[Bruette]

@PRROgaugeR

Stick with us, the forum gets a "wonky" from time to time - technology is great, when it works. You won't find a better group of people on the internet. You already met Willie, he is one of many.

For Everybody else: here is a photo of the K4 mentioned, now you will see why I am drooling!

https://www.lionel.com/products/pennsylvania-legacy-k4-1361-2631050/

 

[PRROgaugeR]

I wouldn't call myself an expert, but I do enjoy playing with my Lionel Trains. With a little more information I will be able to help you.

Are you running either a Legacy or TMCC controller? Or just using what came with the sets?

Do you have two separate ovals (one from each set) or have you combined the two?

Have you bought something to activate the signal bridge?

I love these sets and I'm drooling over that K4!

Hello! Well right now I'm using what came with the sets and I also use the app, but I find that kind of stupid because you can't run 2 trains at once. You have to disconnect to select another engine. I'm doing 2 separate ovals for now. Unfortunately, I live in an apartment, well actually a very small apartment, so this is going to be a floor layout. I did go overboard on what all I bought. I would like to get the Legacy or TMCC controllers but know nothing about them and I'm hoping they will run my lionchief items as well.

Yea, right now i have two oval that came with the set on the floor. Later I may make a single. I have 4 O-72 remote/command switches as well, talk about confusion on how to use those. I have not bought anything yet to activate them. I bought 2 of those. I do believe I figured it out, it's similar to my crossing singles I have, were you have two 5" isolated track sections and a plug extend track, and you can extend it by adding the activator extender.

As far as the K4.. I pre-ordered 1361 and a few passenger cars. It will most likely be the only Legacy engine I will own. lol. Income doesn't allow for legacy purchases and yes, I can't wait to get it. I have included a picture of the floor layout I'm thinking of doing. It's a little much, but it is what it is lol. Thanks again for the response.

 

[PRROgaugeR]

@PRROgaugeR

Stick with us, the forum gets a "wonky" from time to time - technology is great, when it works. You won't find a better group of people on the internet. You already met Willie, he is one of many.

For Everybody else: here is a photo of the K4 mentioned, now you will see why I am drooling!
View attachment 273385

https://www.lionel.com/products/pennsylvania-legacy-k4-1361-2631050/

Wow, that's a better picture than what I saw.. Now I'm drooling and depressed knowing that will be the only Legacy I own.. That is one nice loco though. Depression gone. lol

 

[Bruette]

Wow, that's a better picture than what I saw.. Now I'm drooling and depressed knowing that will be the only Legacy I own.. That is one nice loco though. Depression gone. lol

First things first - Welcome to the forum, we are glad to have you with us!

That K4 locomotive is so magnificent, it’s worth every penny just to have it displayed on a shelf.

Just a heads-up; your K4 won’t work with your current layout. The minimum curve radius is O60 for that K4. That is assuming all the curves in your track plan are from the RTR (ready to run) sets, O36 curves come with sets.

On the plus side, Legacy and TMCC locomotives can operate with a conventional (A/C) transformer without requiring a command controller (TMCC or Legacy). While some features may be limited, they are still very cool! I’ve run many of my Legacy and TMCC locomotives using a conventional transformer.

I sometimes question why I bought the Lionel 990 Legacy Command Set, considering I’ve never done more than test it. Especially now that the newer Legacy locomotives can run with the universal remote or app. But several of my TMCC and Legacy locomotives are older and not able to run with LionChief power, the universal remote or the app.

God willing, I will soon get my attic layout setup and finally use the 990 Legacy Command Set.

that will be the only Legacy I own

If you are only going to own one, you picked a great one!

From Lionel's page - A legend by any measure, Pennsylvania's K4 Pacifics are truly the standard by which all others of that type are measured. 425 strong, the K4 was the backbone of the Pennsy's passenger operations. From the Blue-Ribbon fleet to New Jersey commuter trains, the K4 ruled the rails from the 1910s through the 1950s. Overall, the look of the K4 didn't change much over the decades, aside from front end details and the addition of stokers. Though to be sure, not all 425 were exactly alike. Featuring upgraded tooling, new features and multiple detail and decoration options, Lionel's latest release of the K4 is our best yet!

I'm using what came with the sets and I also use the app, but I find that kind of stupid because you can't run 2 trains at once. You have to disconnect to select another engine.

Using the LionChief remotes allows you to control both simultaneously. Set them side by side, and you’ve got yourself a makeshift control panel.

I do believe I figured it out

I’m sure you’ll not only figure it out but also master it in time. You seem to be enjoying the process, and that’s key. To excel at anything, you need passion to drive your learning.

My fascination with Lionel Trains began beneath a Christmas tree, running them on the floor. There’s a long tradition of Lionel enthusiasts who started on the floor, and many still enjoy operating their trains right on the floor.

Every year, I run my Lionel North Pole Central Christmas Pioneer Zephyr Legacy Set on the floor and run it with a conventional transformer. For years, I used a modern Lionel CW80 (80-watt) AC transformer to power it. Plenty of so-called experts claimed it wouldn’t work due to insufficient power, but I know for a fact it does. The modern CW80 handles many Legacy locomotives just fine. It's not ideal, but it works. However, it can’t run my massive EM-1, 2-8-8-4 B&O “7617” with TMCC. I can't say if a modern CW80 would be powerful enough for your K4. But a Lionel GW-180 (180-watt) transformer would be more than enough. Older CW80s are not suitable for Legacy locomotives. The harsh chopped sinewave can be hazardous to the electronics.

Your new K4 can run on a LionChief (DC) power supply using Lionel's universal remote or the app. It’s unclear if the LionChief 31.5-VA power supply included with RTR sets will be sufficient, but since you already have them, it’s safe and easy to test. If they’re not up to the task, the optional LionChief 72-watt power supply will definitely work.

I have included a picture of the floor layout I'm thinking of doing.

I like it, but what truly matters is that you do! If not, Lionel's Fastrack makes adjusting your track plan a breeze.

Don’t let anyone tell what you should do - advice is always welcome, but you’re the CEO of your railroad, and you make all the decisions.

A word of caution - start slow, as it’s easy to end up buying more than you’ll ever use. No need to ask me how I know.

A wise friend once told me, "The only expensive locomotive is the one you don't use" But I will repeat myself; that K4 is so magnificent, it’s worth every penny just to have it displayed on a shelf!

 

[Mixed Freight]

Hi Louis and Mr. Steve,

I'm fairly confident that a Lionel Universal Remote will run everything that Steve has, seeing as how it appears to be all newer production (LionChief Plus 2.0 and later). At around $55.00~$65.00 or thereabouts price point, it would be more than affordable enough to purchase one. Up to 3 locos can be run at once with this one remote. But it will only do basic functions. Besides forward and reverse, it will also activate bell and whistle/horn, crew talk, and front & rear couplers.

Also, downloading Lionel's free app. should allow for complete control for the Pennsy K4 when the time comes for serious running.

That's about all I know about Lionel's advanced control systems, as I haven't (yet) pull the trigger on obtaining any of the other stuff.
Hope this helps.

 

[PRROgaugeR]

First things first - Welcome to the forum, we are glad to have you with us!

Thanks, I appreciate that. I'm going to need a lot of help.!That K4 locomotive is so magnificent, it’s worth every penny just to have it displayed on a shelf.

Just a heads-up; your K4 won’t work with your current layout. The minimum curve radius is O60 for that K4. That is assuming all the curves in your track plan are from the RTR (ready to run) sets, O36 curves come with sets.

I'm lucky! 60 is my minimum, although I wasted $$$ buying 72, but oh well. I'll hold on to them

On the plus side, Legacy and TMCC locomotives can operate with a conventional (A/C) transformer without requiring a command controller (TMCC or Legacy). While some features may be limited, they are still very cool! I’ve run many of my Legacy and TMCC locomotives using a conventional transformer.

I sometimes question why I bought the Lionel 990 Legacy Command Set, considering I’ve never done more than test it. Especially now that the newer Legacy locomotives can run with the universal remote or app. But several of my TMCC and Legacy locomotives are older and not able to run with LionChief power, the universal remote or the app.

God willing, I will soon get my attic layout setup and finally use the 990 Legacy Command Set.

That is what confuses me, what you wrote was mumbo jumbo to me. I was looking for something like remotes. Kind of like DCC. If you were to get one what would you suggest? By the time the K4 hits me, I'll have about 4 or 5 lionchiefs with what I have already.

If you are only going to own one, you picked a great one!

From Lionel's page - A legend by any measure, Pennsylvania's K4 Pacifics are truly the standard by which all others of that type are measured. 425 strong, the K4 was the backbone of the Pennsy's passenger operations. From the Blue-Ribbon fleet to New Jersey commuter trains, the K4 ruled the rails from the 1910s through the 1950s. Overall, the look of the K4 didn't change much over the decades, aside from front end details and the addition of stokers. Though to be sure, not all 425 were exactly alike. Featuring upgraded tooling, new features and multiple detail and decoration options, Lionel's latest release of the K4 is our best yet!

Using the LionChief remotes allows you to control both simultaneously. Set them side by side, and you’ve got yourself a makeshift control panel.

I’m sure you’ll not only figure it out but also master it in time. You seem to be enjoying the process, and that’s key. To excel at anything, you need passion to drive your learning.

Yes, slowly learning, lucky me I got the Lionel crossing signals and I learned from them, setup is basically the same for the signal bridge. Still learning about some of the fastrack pieces like the 6-81317 which should work for the signal bridge.

My fascination with Lionel Trains began beneath a Christmas tree, running them on the floor. There’s a long tradition of Lionel enthusiasts who started on the floor, and many still enjoy operating their trains right on the floor.

I got my frist set at the age of 6. It was wrapped up under the tree. I loved that thing so much that I even slept with it. lol

Every year, I run my Lionel North Pole Central Christmas Pioneer Zephyr Legacy Set on the floor and run it with a conventional transformer. For years, I used a modern Lionel CW80 (80-watt) AC transformer to power it. Plenty of so-called experts claimed it wouldn’t work due to insufficient power, but I know for a fact it does. The modern CW80 handles many Legacy locomotives just fine. It's not ideal, but it works. However, it can’t run my massive EM-1, 2-8-8-4 B&O “7617” with TMCC. I can't say if a modern CW80 would be powerful enough for your K4. But a Lionel GW-180 (180-watt) transformer would be more than enough. Older CW80s are not suitable for Legacy locomotives. The harsh chopped sinewave can be hazardous to the electronics.

Your new K4 can run on a LionChief (DC) power supply using Lionel's universal remote or the app. It’s unclear if the LionChief 31.5-VA power supply included with RTR sets will be sufficient, but since you already have them, it’s safe and easy to test. If they’re not up to the task, the optional LionChief 72-watt power supply will definitely work.

That's what confuses me. I know the power supply plugs into the wall, but not sure of the control part. Lionel's universal remote? Not sure I know what that is. I know when I cracked opened my instructions for my LionChief Plus 2.0 Budd Rail Diesel Car it showed a controler similar to what's in the sets? It also showed the below picture which piqued my interest, but can't find it.

I like it, but what truly matters is that you do! If not, Lionel's Fastrack makes adjusting your track plan a breeze.

Well, I think I'm going to take some of the spurs out. That's a bit much and well, I have too many freight cars that won't even fit on that little bit of spurs. Plus I pre-ordered some of the PRR passenger cars for the K4, and I know they won't fit on that little bit of spurs, so no point having all of them.

Don’t let anyone tell what you should do - advice is always welcome, but you’re the CEO of your railroad, and you make all the decisions.

Yup, CEO of the poor man's railroad, that it has to be on the floor.

A word of caution - start slow, as it’s easy to end up buying more than you’ll ever use. No need to ask me how I know.

Well, thanks for that warning. Although, a little too late. I think I overwhelmed the online hobby shop I visited.

A wise friend once told me, "The only expensive locomotive is the one you don't use" But I will repeat myself; that K4 is so magnificent, it’s worth every penny just to have it displayed on a shelf!

Well, I guess so far I don't have any or them. Well come to think of it. I do, the Polar Express Budd rail car was out long enough to test it. I kinda fell in love with that one. But not sure if all the lighting is correct. I do thank you for responding and trying to help me out!

 

[PRROgaugeR]

Hi Louis and Mr. Steve,

I'm fairly confident that a Lionel Universal Remote will run everything that Steve has, seeing as how it appears to be all newer production (LionChief Plus 2.0 and later). At around $55.00~$65.00 or thereabouts price point, it would be more than affordable enough to purchase one. Up to 3 locos can be run at once with this one remote. But it will only do basic functions. Besides forward and reverse, it will also activate bell and whistle/horn, crew talk, and front & rear couplers.

Also, downloading Lionel's free app. should allow for complete control for the Pennsy K4 when the time comes for serious running.

That's about all I know about Lionel's advanced control systems, as I haven't (yet) pull the trigger on obtaining any of the other stuff.
Hope this helps.

Hey, thanks for chiming in! I was looking for the universal, but I'm kind of not fond of it. I may look at other options and see what the price range is before making a decision. At least know I know that'll it work!

I've tried the app, not sure I really like it, I thought you would be able to select multiple engine but you have to unlink the one you are using, which stops it. The app would be good if it permitted additional locomotives running at once.

Thanks again for the information at least now I know, just in case.

 

[Bruette]

The app would be good if it permitted additional locomotives running at once.

You could use the app to run the K4 and the universal remote to run three other trains and or the dedicated remotes that came with your sets

Without purchasing the Trainmaster Command Control System (TMCC), the remote in the photo won’t function. If you’re going to invest in a control system, I’d suggest opting for the Legacy system. TMCC was the original but has been replaced by Legacy. While TMCC can operate Legacy locomotives, some features will be missing. TMCC units are only available second-hand, and considering the price difference, Legacy is the better choice.

I'm lucky! 60 is my minimum, although I wasted $$$ buying 72, but oh well. I'll hold on to them

I wouldn’t say you wasted money; I’d say it was a smart move to go with O72. When it comes to radius, bigger is better if you have the space. An O72 full circle is just over 6 feet, and it’s the minimum needed for even the largest locomotives I know of.

can't find it.

https://www.lionel.com/products/universal-lclc-remote-controller-6-83071

You can get one from Walmart, Amazon and many other places. Make sure to get the latest version (1.3).

I'm out of time for now, I'll be back.

 

[Mixed Freight]

I wouldn’t say you wasted money; I’d say it was a smart move to go with O72. When it comes to radius, bigger is better if you have the space. An O72 full circle is just over 6 feet, and it’s the minimum needed for even the largest locomotives I know of.

Absolutely! Right on the money! The bigger the radius, the better. No matter what scale you choose.
And the same goes true for with switches (turnouts). The bigger the radius (or number) that you have room for, the better your trains will operate!

https://www.lionel.com/products/universal-lclc-remote-controller-6-83071

View attachment 273399

Yes, that's the universal remote! Although I suspect something funny is going on with that picture.
The "2-2-3" numbers directly under the "Shift" key should actually say "1-2-3". That would indicate the 3 different locos you could be running all at the same time. Not sure what's up with the 2-2-3? A.I. gobbledy-gook interpretation, perhaps? Or other?

 

[PRROgaugeR]

Absolutely! Right on the money! The bigger the radius, the better. No matter what scale you choose.
And the same goes true for with switches (turnouts). The bigger the radius (or number) that you have room for, the better your trains will operate!



Yes, that's the universal remote! Although I suspect something funny is going on with that picture.
The "2-2-3" numbers directly under the "Shift" key should actually say "1-2-3". That would indicate the 3 different locos you could be running all at the same time. Not sure what's up with the 2-2-3? A.I. gobbledy-gook interpretation, perhaps? Or other?

Yea I saw that and was thinking.. Thought only MTH made mistakes.. Also, This is what I've kind of been looking at, but can't find any of them around.

Lionel Cab-1L/Base-1L Command Set

Re-thought the layout to.. New one.

 

[Bruette]

Lionel Cab-1L/Base-1L Command Set

Now you've introduced me to something I wasn't aware of!

After looking into it I will post more details for others, like me that had never heard of it.

The CAB‑1L/Base‑1L system debuted in Lionel’s 2013–2014 catalog cycle. That was the moment Lionel introduced the “L” series; a modernized, simplified successor to the original TMCC CAB‑1, designed to give operators a lower‑cost entry point into command control without buying the full Legacy 990 set.

The CAB‑1L/Base‑1L was marketed as “Legacy Lite”; Legacy‑compatible, TMCC‑compatible, but without the advanced CAB‑2 screen or deep menu functions. By the 2016–2017 catalog, the set was still offered. After that, it quietly left the lineup as Lionel shifted toward LionChief, Bluetooth, and Base‑3.

This is what I've kind of been looking at, but can't find any of them around.

Trainz are one of the best for coming up with hard-to-find items. It will likely be second hand so read the listing carefully before completing the purchase.

Search: 26 results found for "lionel 6-37147"

Hey, train hobbyists! Find scale model trains of all types and gauges, including Lionel, MTH, K-Line, Williams, Weaver, American Flyer, Ives, Bachmann, Atlas, Broadway Limited, LGB, Aristo-Craft, USA Trains, Kato, Rapido, Model Power, Microtrains, Piko, Gargraves, and more, from Trainz.com! For...

www.trainz.com

eBay is another option and eBay's buyer protection is all but bullet proof, if you read the listing carefully. You can save your search and be notified by email when one becomes available.

Although I suspect something funny is going on with that picture.

You are correct sir!

Thought only MTH made mistakes.

Everyone makes mistakes; nothing human is ever perfect. I have a few MTH products that Lionel hasn’t made, and I really like them.

Re-thought the layout to.. New one.

I like it! Enough to run multiple trains simultaneously and two places to park trains and rolling stock.

 

[PRROgaugeR]

Now you've introduced me to something I wasn't aware of!

After looking into it I will post more details for others, like me that had never heard of it.

The CAB‑1L/Base‑1L system debuted in Lionel’s 2013–2014 catalog cycle. That was the moment Lionel introduced the “L” series; a modernized, simplified successor to the original TMCC CAB‑1, designed to give operators a lower‑cost entry point into command control without buying the full Legacy 990 set.

The CAB‑1L/Base‑1L was marketed as “Legacy Lite”; Legacy‑compatible, TMCC‑compatible, but without the advanced CAB‑2 screen or deep menu functions. By the 2016–2017 catalog, the set was still offered. After that, it quietly left the lineup as Lionel shifted toward LionChief, Bluetooth, and Base‑3.

Trainz are one of the best for coming up with hard-to-find items. It will likely be second hand so read the listing carefully before completing the purchase.

Search: 26 results found for "lionel 6-37147"

Hey, train hobbyists! Find scale model trains of all types and gauges, including Lionel, MTH, K-Line, Williams, Weaver, American Flyer, Ives, Bachmann, Atlas, Broadway Limited, LGB, Aristo-Craft, USA Trains, Kato, Rapido, Model Power, Microtrains, Piko, Gargraves, and more, from Trainz.com! For...

www.trainz.com

eBay is another option and eBay's buyer protection is all but bullet proof, if you read the listing carefully. You can save your search and be notified by email when one becomes available.

You are correct sir!
View attachment 273450

Everyone makes mistakes; nothing human is ever perfect. I have a few MTH products that Lionel hasn’t made, and I really like them.

I like it! Enough to run multiple trains simultaneously and two places to park trains and rolling stock.

So, the Base 3 is the new one? I'm just all kinds of confused lol. I think I might just have to stick with the Universal even though I'll have more then 3 engines. Yeah, I've been watching a few shops like trainworld, etc. I've had some trouble with trainz before listing stuff as new, and getting used items. But I look at them every now and again. I didn't realize Lionel had Legacy PRR Atlantics, now I am drooling.. Although I really love the K4's, I would have to bite my tongue because I think the E6's are my favorite. Okay, it's a tie.

I just realized the 072's that I bought are not a waste, they will actually fit on the floor in the living room.

I bought some 060's remote/command switches, I am like totally lost. What's the best way of hooking them up for a floor layout?

I do want to thank you for passing on some of your intelligence my way, I am picking up a little!

Thanks

Steve

 

[Iron Horseman]

Every year, I run my Lionel North Pole Central Christmas Pioneer Zephyr Legacy Set on the floor and run it with a conventional transformer. For years, I used a modern Lionel CW80 (80-watt) AC transformer to power it. Plenty of so-called experts claimed it wouldn’t work due to insufficient power, but I know for a fact it does. The modern CW80 handles many Legacy locomotives just fine. It's not ideal, but it works. However, it can’t run my massive EM-1, 2-8-8-4 B&O “7617” with TMCC. I can't say if a modern CW80 would be powerful enough for your K4. But a Lionel GW-180 (180-watt) transformer would be more than enough. Older CW80s are not suitable for Legacy locomotives. The harsh chopped sinewave can be hazardous to the electronics.

This was my experience with a Legacy locomotive (Polar Express Berkshire) and the CW80. It could power the locomotive, or the sound tender but not both. Let alone all the lighted passenger cars. I had to get the GW-180.

 

[Bruette]

lighted passenger cars

Good point, @PRROgaugeR intends to run passenger cars with his Legacy K4. I doubt a CW80 would be up to the task.

the best way of hooking them up for a floor layout?

Manual control, for now. If you add a command control system, then you can take advantage of remote control. Go slow, start with what you have and go from there.

I am picking up a little!

We are all learning as we go

O-gauge (AC) is generally considered simple; it is in terms of wiring compared to HO or N (DC). When you factor in different scales; traditional, standard, full-scale, semi-scale, and more, it can get complicated. Then, layering in power and control options; AC, DC, conventional, TMCC, Legacy, Bluetooth, LionChief with its various versions - makes it even more complex.

I do want to thank you for passing on some of your intelligence my way,

My health hasn't been so good recently. My participation in the forum has diminished as a result. You have inspired me to participate in this thread, thank you and thank you for sharing your hobby with us! I have enjoyed it!

And please, no one worry about me. God is always with me, and I have more than enough faith to endure whatever life throws at me. I have proven to have more lives than a cat. This too shall pass.

 

[PRROgaugeR]

Good point, @PRROgaugeR intends to run passenger cars with his Legacy K4. I doubt a CW80 would be up to the task.

Well right now I have 4 locomotives 5 with the K4 and I'm going try my hardest for an E6. So I need the power and the ability to run them.

Manual control, for now. If you add a command control system, then you can take advantage of remote control. Go slow, start with what you have and go from there.

Okay will do manual, i didn't want wires everywhere on the floor.

We are all learning as we go

O-gauge (AC) is generally considered simple; it is in terms of wiring compared to HO or N (DC). When you factor in different scales; traditional, standard, full-scale, semi-scale, and more, it can get complicated. Then, layering in power and control options; AC, DC, conventional, TMCC, Legacy, Bluetooth, LionChief with its various versions - makes it even more complex.

And with that said, why did I go O gauge.

My health hasn't been so good recently. My participation in the forum has diminished as a result. You have inspired me to participate in this thread, thank you and thank you for sharing your hobby with us! I have enjoyed it!

And please, no one worry about me. God is always with me, and I have more than enough faith to endure whatever life throws at me. I have proven to have more lives than a cat. This too shall pass.

Will pray for you. I'm no spring chicken either and have a few health set backs. Bought the trains to help get my mind off them.

I think i have finalized my layout. I didn't the the living room would handle the O72 but it does. O72 is outer look everything else is O60.

 

[Bruette]

I'm going try my hardest for an E6. So I need the power and the ability to run them.

Which E6 are you looking at? Is it this one?

https://www.lionel.com/products/general-motors-legacy-e6-aa-set-1939-1940-2433610/

That would fit your layout, but I don't think any Legacy locomotive will run on a LionChief DC power supply. I would call Lionel and ask for clarification. 586-949-4100 or 800-454-6635

However, LionChief locomotives can run on AC power. I recommend a PH180 or GW180 AC Transformer. Two Legacy + up to two LionChief locomotives should be a comfortable load on a 180-Watt transformer.

GW180/PH180 – Lionel Power & Control

control.lionel.com

If you want to have way more than enough power you can go with the ZW-L 620-Watt transformer.

ZW-L Transformers

Manufacturer of model trains and accessories in O and standard gauges.

www.lionel.com

why did I go O gauge.

Because it is the coolest of them all! HO is fantastic, but too small for me. N is even smaller, forget about it!

And if you think Lionel O is complicated, look into DCC that is a total chaotic mess to me.

I think i have finalized my layout.

That is a versatile plan.

I would suggest a siding or two in the center, but what you have is great as is. Don't be surprised if you change your plan. I lost count long ago of how many times I changed my track plans.

When I had more free time i used to enjoy devolving plans in Any Rail. Most never saw the light of day but I had fun dreaming.