Hi guys- A little more detail on the RS-3 (I was posting from my phone and my thumbs were getting cramps).
I had tested the loco several times on the bench with alligator clips on the trucks and it ran fine. Put it on the track-nothing. I finally realized after several attempts, which included putting the shell on, that one truck was shorted and the other was fine. Both motors ran when I tested but once on the track the common wheels of the trailing truck would cause a short. At least I know where to start when I go back in.
Glad you guys like the old school clamps. I got them as promotional give-aways at work. They have come in handy several times. You should see the old bar clamps I have. They belonged to my wife's grandfather- 4' long and they weigh a ton. Probably 80 years old by now.
Elliot- Glad you got the power issues solved. We had a old electrician's joke when wires were short- go get the wire stretcher out of the truck . And you are right- nothing is easy, if it was everyone would do it.
Jim- Nice Southern equipment. The box car looks sharp too. Hope you enjoyed your cake.
Ping-man- progress photos please?
Jeff- very cool whistle, how loud is it? We need a video of the factory in operation. That looks like a great project.
ANYONE HEARD FROM MIKE G? Hope he's OK.
Bob