Now that I am getting back into the hobby, I unfortunately find that I am still very limited on what I can do right now since I don't have much if any space on setting up an decent layout. I need to find some property somewhere where I can build a home at some point large enough to build my dream permanent layout. But have a long ways to get there.
First off I have several diesel engines, all MTH. Most of them are PS2 but I do have one that is PS1, and was still pretty functional last time I ran it. Since all of my engines have been sleeping in their boxes for several years and been through several major moves its time to wake them up again, especially my RailKing UP Big Boy. I have no PS3 engines at this time though that may change down the line. I also would like to get a few more steamers since the BB is all I have and probably some switchers and a few more diesels. For my rolling stock I may look into the Kadee coupling system since I like long consists.
Secondly I do have DCS with remote and TIU, but I do not have an AIU as I was never able to get one. I don't remember what revision my TIU is since I bought it almost 10 years ago. I remember updating it via the RS-232 port if memory serves, though I might be wrong. I'm sure I will need to get an AIU or two eventually. I've read some threads about Barry's book on DCS and plan to order a copy on Amazon so that I can get a better understanding on wiring a layout, especially if one plans to build a large size layout. I don't have any Lionel engines and though I am familiar with TMCC (my uncle has that system), I've never used one. Sometimes Lionel has some nice engines that MTH may not always have but, would be a challenge to incorporate both systems into one layout. I know that DCS can work with Lionel's engines but not the other way around.
Thirdly for track, based on the older threads I read here I plan to go with GG track and Ross switches, since they have the best variety. I ordered a few pieces of GG track and a Ross switch to see how everything goes together. My past track dealings were Atlas track (no switches though) and Fastrack which is fine for temporary layouts but too noisy on hard floor surfaces, especially concrete. Tubular I had since I was 10 years old that I passed on to my nephew to get him into the hobby.
I've looked at some of the layouts here and very impressed with the work and detail many have put into their layouts. That gives me the desire to start working on a plan to have myself a railroad empire started. It will take me alot of time and $$$$$ but I can say that working with such a hobby like this can be a great stress reliever. I don't know much on building scenery, trestle bridges and such but I am sure I may find some answers in some of the older threads here. Would be nice to join a train club if I knew of one in the Houston area here.
