If I could start all over again I would probably do a lot of things different. I would keep my current 8x20 framework but I think I would go 100% toy rail. No scenic details whatsoever. No track ballasting, track weathering, mountains, fields, factories, etc. I would let the trains and accessories do all the talking. I would probably also concentrate on tinplate, both O gauge and Standard gauge, and would make sure my layout would accommodate both. I would get rid of my rail yard and construct a track configuration which would allow me to operate at least four trains at once. The layout surface would be covered with a good sound deadening material along with marine deck carpeting. I might have a turnout or two but not very many just to keep things fairly simple and allow for trouble free operation. Finally, I would use good old, and I mean old, Lionel tubular track. Anything new in the track line would come from USA track, none of the flimsy stuff coming out of China. I would still run the post-war trains I inherited from my Dad and Grandad but the bulk of my operation would be tinplate. I suppose over the years I've become something of a traditionalist.
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