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I'm putting together my first O gauge layout and am new to the hobby but it'll be 9.5'x13' and conventional to start (2 outer loops Ross track, one totally isolated O72 on elevated outer loop and another O64 loop linked to inner tracks, inner tracks/yard/operating accessories are O gauge tubular).  Layout with Any Rail is done (attached), tables almost built but I need some practical advice on where/how to isolate blocks, add uncouplers, etc.  I will eventually add DCS or Legacy so I want to plan for that as well.  Is there a good book or other reference that you suggest I get?  Thanks for all your help here!

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  • KR layout, V2.6, 3 loop+, O31-O72
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Traditional BLOCK wiring is useful for operating trains in conventional mode; especially for parking trains at passing sidings, stub sidings, or yard tracks.  If/when you add Lionel's LEGACY technology and LEGACY-equipped locos, the blocks are less necessary -- probably useless if all locos are LEGACY-equipped.  With LEGACY, you can "park" a loco anywhere; it will remain there until addressed again. Meanwhile, other LEGACY-equipped locos on the layout can be separately addressed and commanded with a CAB-1, CAB-1L, or CAB-2 hand-held controller.

Lionel's simpler yet effective LionChief control system offers basic functions for wireless control of LionChief-equipped locos; kinda like a mini-Legacy system but without all the features (and price tags) of the top-of-the-line LEGACY system.

Your proposed layout plan includes many points of interest. Is there some "logic" to mixing Ross track with tubular track? Maybe you're using some tubular track because you already have it on hand; thus it's "free." 

All the best,

Mike   (ritrainguy)
mottlerm@gmail.com

 

Thanks all for your feedback.  I do intend to run conventional for a while.  The accessories are really to engage my kids (5 YO boy and 8 YO girl).  Will look at all references suggested.  The use of tubular is because I have boxes and boxes of that from auction.  Plus it's what I had as a kid.  Ross track/switch was a more recent auction purchase... already weathered by prior owner and at about 35% of the new price I saved hundreds of $.

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OGR Publishing, Inc., 1310 Eastside Centre Ct, Suite 6, Mountain Home, AR 72653
800-980-OGRR (6477)
www.ogaugerr.com

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