Hi Richard,
It certainly can be difficult to do even the things you enjoy, when you have chronic health issues that run you down. I'm 64 & have arthritis in my hip knees & back & I certainly can sympathize with you. I dread going up and down stairs & my layout has 2 duck under's. I hope to rebuild a walk into layout in a couple years. I wish I made that choice 20 years ago.
So, to answer your question, I'd love to show you pictures of my wiring if I was a real solid success story. Unfortunately 20 or so years ago when I built my layout, I couldn't wait to get trains running! In the beginning of DCS, a lot of people were experiencing teething problems, especially myself. I struggled trying different solutions offered on the web. You may have read about the magic light bulb trick. That got me over the hump, but along the way I probably created some wiring conflicts that I never really figured out. I got my trains running consistent enough that I was content & just keep going.
My layout is 14' x 24' with 2 basic loops that interconnect at one point, a passing siding, a couple industry sidings, a reverse loop & a small yard, fairly simple. Because I experience a hick-up every now & then I chose not to progress any further on my layout. For now, with 2 Grandsons, I'm happy just running trains. When I do have engine issues, I always believe its the layout & not the engines first, & I head to the work bench & test there as I suggested earlier in this thread.
I'm curious, is your layout built or are you just starting? One thing I honestly can suggest, take your time, be consistent with your approach & test as you go along. Ross products are great & that's a real good start. There are many knowledgeable people on the forum & I hope someone will help to give US some solid suggestions to follow!
I love to build bench work, scenery, buildings & weather my models & want to focus on that! I think when I build a new layout I'll seek out someone who will help me do the wiring the right way first!
Keep in touch,
Joe
