Bruce and Nate:
I am enjoying this thread immensely and admiring the work both of you are doing. I am a PRR modeler and have a GG1 in my motive power fleet among many PRR steam locomotives. I have been wanting, for years, to install catenary in my layout. Thank you both for sharing your solutions to the project.
One of my main dilemmas is that my two main tracks go under an existing 10 foot long tunnel that is not removable. I do have a small access space at the back side of the tunnel to remove derailments. Did either of you have a similar problem? If so, how did you solve it?
I have mentally wrestled with the problem of whether to power electric locomotives from overhead power through the catenary (if I ever get off my butt and install it) or not. After much deliberation, I have come to the conclusion that viewers of the layout will see the engine running with its pantograph up and not care whether or not it is running from overhead power. This will solve the problem of rewiring your electric locomotives to accept overhead power. The visual effect will be sufficient.
