Magilla’s first layout build.

[magilla12]

Really like the new transformer.

 

[Smudge617]

OK I just wanted to let everybody know I haven’t quit on the train. I’ve just had to put it on the back burner for now. It’s been yard cleanup flowerbeds, cleanup, mowing, weed eating garden planting time. I did get a new DC controller new engine and some cars.

Nice little setup you've got going there.

 

[magilla12]

OK it’s starting to cool down a little bit so maybe I can get back in the train room I’ll keep you updated.

 

[magilla12]

Dang, i’m back again. We had to shut down for a while. Our grandson moved in with us so that took most of my time and most of my money so he’s moved home now he turned 18 so that’s another story so I’m ready to get back on my train.

 

[PMW]

Dang, i’m back again. We had to shut down for a while. Our grandson moved in with us so that took most of my time and most of my money so he’s moved home now he turned 18 so that’s another story so I’m ready to get back on my train.

Just found this thread. I understand. Life sometimes seems like it's making sure one doesn't have enough time for one's layout

Looking forward to seeing your progress

 

[Jim 68cuda]

Thanks for the info, I’ve already ordered most of the track, I didn’t think about using flex track. I’ll for sure use it more when I expand. Here’s a poor pic of the layout. View attachment 159839

I remember that track plan from the book, "HO Railroad that Grows"!! I followed the book's instructions to cast a stone bridge.

 

[magilla12]

OK, I’m back again. It’s funny how life can get in your way sometimes but it’s a good thing. I’m back in the train room and made some progress yesterday. I’ll post some update pictures later today.

 

[magilla12]

Here’s a few pictures I’ve got the airline route in all the track pretty much is down. My son got me this pretty cool oil pumping unit for Christmas. I saw this waffle house on eBay and I had to have it. Love me a Waffle House.

 

[BigGRacing]

Looking awesome!

 

[magilla12]

Hey guys, I’m looking for ideas on how to build something to mount switches and reversing switches so I don’t get confused. . The book doesn’t give much help on this and I have a few ideas.

 

[logandsawman]

I missed it, is it 4×8 or did you go with different size?

Everything looks GREAT

Dave LASM

 

[magilla12]

I missed it, is it 4×8 or did you go with different size?

Everything looks GREAT

Dave LASM

4X8

 

[magilla12]

OK, I got to spend a little bit of time on the layout today. All the track is nailed down ready to start wiring some switches. I got some really perfect switch wire from my local electrician for free.ready to get busy.

 

[magilla12]

can anybody recommend a decent locomotive non-DDC that’ll pull a few cars up my mountains

 

[diesel]

Look for weight, most locos have more than enough motor power, but just like the real thing there is wheel slip.

 

[kjd]

can anybody recommend a decent locomotive non-DDC that’ll pull a few cars up my mountains

Stewart F units or older Athearn Superpower F7 would be a good option

 

[logandsawman]

Stewart F units or older Athearn Superpower F7 would be a good option

I can attest to the pulling power of the Athearn Superpower F7. Mine could easily handle 24 box cars, dummy, and caboose up a 3% grade on a 20" radius curve.

 

[diesel]

I had an N scale layout with insane grades... I found the solution to getting a train up them was multiple diesels on the head end.

 

[magilla12]

Can you use an engine that is DDC equipped on a regular DC track.

 

[diesel]

Can you use an engine that is DDC equipped on a regular DC track.

You can, if the DCC decoder is dual mode.