Trying to educate a newbie about O gauge, scale, conv., TMCC, Legacy...

I think your advice to him is good.  I'd also practice a little study and psychology here.  What does he like to do - run and watch his trains, operate them in a switchyards, have a great layout venue to feature and display them in a "realistic setting?"  That is going to define a lot what type of layout he wants, etc.

If he buys a legacy hudson it will never leave the track...Its like watching a good movie that you dont get tired of...

Thanks for your input.  I think I've got it designed where it can be as easy as pulling a train out of the yard and running it on the loops and returning back to the yard, but also have flexibilty with 2 reverse loops, some industry spurs for accessories and Legacy for when his 4 grand sons come over to play.  The task is bringing him up to speed on what equipment he wants to run and what will work on his layout.  If he's going to end up with mostly Legacy stuff and an occasional conv, I could simplify the control system.  For example, we have a turntable & roundhouse with 4 stalls.  Each stall has it's own power block so he can call up any one of 4 conv engines.  If he's parking 4 Legacy engines there, I don't need 4 extra blocks. I'll probably build it that way anyway.  I like a challenge.  And I want to get my hands on that new ZWL too.  This should be interesting.     

If he buys a Vision line Hudson, I may never leave his house!

Hi William,

I may need your services in the future to help me create scenery only. Is this something you can help me with? If so, how can I get in contact with you. I live in St. Charles, IL.

Thanks!

Mike    

Hi maa5344,

I just realized my email # wasn't in my profile.  I changed it.  BTW-The name Layout Grunts is for marketing purposes only.  I have a construction company, but these days building a 16 X 12 layout is probably more profitable than building $ 800,000 houses.  And there is only 1 grunt to watch after-myself.  Not babysitting 25 different trades.

I will follow up with you. Thank you for your interest.

I just got off the phone with my client.  I had to steer him away from buying a Mil Rd S3 Northern because it's rated at 054 curves.  It looks like he's investing in a Legacy Hudson and a Mikado.  How cool is that!   

question from another newbie.. what is a "vision line" is that a RR? a brand?

I'm 70, and we grew up with those crazy and wonderful 1950s automobiles. Make sure you have roads and parking lots on his new layout, and tell him to go on eBay and find the 1:43 cars he likes.

That is Lionel's top-of-the-line (and most expensive) product line - usually where they debut the new technology features they are developing.

Andy

That's the visionline Hudson you are talking of?

I want one!!!!!! 

I still have to finish my Electrics collection first.. but I will buy this one!

Yeah, he's a fast learner.  Vision line also comes with a lifetime warranty.