@Keystoned Ed posted:The approach I've adopted to control my instinct to collect the alphabet of PRR Power was to develop a roster based on a specific era, and region. In my case it's PRR in 1952 centered around Altoona PA. That filters out about half the imported brass PRR steam locomotives available in O scale. As a result I've sold off a large number of locomotives including classes N1, S1, S2, Q1, HH1, and several pre-war detailed M1's and K4's. My next filter was to develop a concept of operations for the railroad and determine what classes and number of locomotives (4 I1sa's) I'd need to execute it. Though I've made a few exceptions (like a K5) I've been able to trim the roster to one that won't overflow the railroad onto shelves. Not for everyone - but it works for me.
Ed Rappe
That is a great concept, Ed! Well done!
I also have worked at controlling my impulse to collect all of the Pennsy steam. I've also used the era and region as well as the layout limitations (Panhandle 1 had a max curve of O54) to restrict engine purchases. My Panhandle 2 represents the 1952-53 time frame in the Weirton-Steubenville area. I am approaching the absolute limits of my rather large layout, but at least I'll be able to run most of motive power. The rest will be stored in the Staging Area - ready to run trains.
The final suggestion is: Have a primary train(s) designated for every locomotive you own. All of my locomotives have specific jobs (coal drag, ore drag, mixed freight, passenger, fast mail, slag train, etc.)
George
