What did you do on your layout today?

The Frankenswitcher is now resplendent in new/old end railings from Trainz! 

Mitch

@M. Mitchell Marmel posted:

The Frankenswitcher is now resplendent in new/old end railings from Trainz!

Mitch

Very nice Mitch

A little more done.

@RSJB18 posted:

Here's the link to the channel on Youtube. They have cameras all over the country. I can spend hours watching the action.

https://www.youtube.com/channe...kT9bq-1N2BvrsBjhNlag

Wow, that's a lot more than at Horseshoe Curve, Altoona, the closest one to me.

Mitch, is the Frankenswitcher going to get a new paint job?  Razerback?  Something else?

Terry Luft, I like the sag on the wires.  Having worked for the power and telephone company most of my 43 years working, I always wonder what is the best way to get a good looking sag in line wires.

Mark,

That’s why I use crochet thread. It is not elastic and it’s just heavy enough to sag a little.

I couldn’t find a prototype for this but it seems like a reasonable way to get the phone lines across the canyon. In any case it’s the Central Valley in California, Frank Norris “Octopus”, country so the SP can do whatever it wants.

Terry, your reference to Frank Norris and his book(s) is the 1st time I have heard his name or any of his books mentioned since I read him in HS. Thanks for sharing.

@Terry Luft posted:

Mark,

That’s why I use crochet thread. It is not elastic and it’s just heavy enough to sag a little.

Crochet thread!  Well I'm plenty familiar with that.  Thank you very much!!

@Mark Boyce posted:

Mitch, is the Frankenswitcher going to get a new paint job?  Razerback?  Something else?

For now, I plan to leave it as-is.  Has a certain je nai se quoi.   

Mitch

@M. Mitchell Marmel posted:

For now, I plan to leave it as-is.  Has a certain je nai se quoi.   

Mitch

Yes, it does!! 

I had to go to the English to French translator for that.  I took French in high school, but that was over 50 years ago!  I got one word right. 

@Terry Luft posted:

I couldn’t find a prototype for this but it seems like a reasonable way to get the phone lines across the canyon. In any case it’s the Central Valley in California, Frank Norris “Octopus”, country so the SP can do whatever it wants.

Terry,

I'm with you on this. I know I have seen this done on stone arch bridges but I'm sure there is a prototype somewhere for what you have done. Either way, it looks good and it's your railroad.

Dave

Hi Everyone,

Can you guess what these will be used for...

Dave

Third world flossing.

@mike g. posted:

Morning guys, first off, I want to thank you all for your thoughts about me. I am doing fine just whooped working with all this snow we have got and trying to help people why can't help themselves! It really sucks as there are people running around charging an arm and leg to help folks on fixed income. I do it for free as that is what my dad instilled in me! Here is what we have been dealing with and then on to some train stuff! LOL Mind you my deck railing is 6' tall and the snow pile is what was on the ground and the snow I had to take off the roof.

Mike,  please be careful with all that gratis snow shoveling.  At our average ages our bodies are not prepped for that kid of strenuous work.   "A man has got to know their limitations".

I just replaced a 28 YO Ahrens 24" snow blower for  new Ahrens 24" with better features at half the 1994 price from HD.

After several  volunteer years, we stopped gratis  clearing of out neighbor's drives.  Didn't even get a wave or a thank you.

@mike g. posted:

Morning guys, first off, I want to thank you all for your thoughts about me. I am doing fine just whooped working with all this snow we have got and trying to help people why can't help themselves! It really sucks as there are people running around charging an arm and leg to help folks on fixed income. I do it for free as that is what my dad instilled in me! Here is what we have been dealing with and then on to some train stuff! LOL Mind you my deck railing is 6' tall and the snow pile is what was on the ground and the snow I had to take off the roof.

Now on to some train stuff, last time my grandkids were here I was informed there were no people of color on my layout. My grandkids are part Hispanic, so I spent a few nights right before bed painting some new people of color so they would fit in. My bad!

I also had an hour or so to add ground cover to the area I had to widen out for the overhang of my new steam engine. Here is what I have so far!

The Kids and grandkids came for Christmas after the new year, and we had a great time. They gave me one of the best out of the blue gift for my train layout! I have been looking for a Greyhound bus but everyone I found was way out of my price range and low and behold that's what I got from the grandkids!

I hope you are all well and having fun with your trains and layouts! Please be safe and it might be a couple days before I get back as I have a few more people to take care of. Now all we have to worry about for us is landslides as we live on top of a hill and if it slides it blocks the road!

Mike, great pics of the snow storm...wow!  The new ground cover looks great!

It's good to see the addition of the "Greyhound" bus to your layout.  I know you've been looking for one for a while...

Tore up my railroad yard and half of back outer track to move everything so my Menards Cripple Creek Engine House I got last week will fit. Work in progress, will post pictures when I get it all done.

@luvindemtrains posted:

Hi Everyone,

Can you guess what these will be used for...

Dave

Stems for vines?

@Terry Luft posted:

I couldn’t find a prototype for this but it seems like a reasonable way to get the phone lines across the canyon. In any case it’s the Central Valley in California, Frank Norris “Octopus”, country so the SP can do whatever it wants.

Terry, I believe this is a realistic representation.  It reminds me of an incident that my dad encountered when he was a young cable splicer for the telephone company he worked at for 38 years.  I ended up at the same company at age 40 until retirement.  At that time the company had telephone cable on the PRR bridge that crosses the Allegheny River at Freeport, Pennsylvania.  Dad was called out to cable trouble after dark.  He was out on the bridge splicing cable and there was a wind whipping down the river.  That was okay, but he said it was really unnerving when a PRR freight came across the bridge.  Now there is fiver optics in conduit.

Well after reading the discussion about having an inventory, I decided I should probably figure out what I have. Not done yet, but I think I bought way too much stuff for my grandkids.   I have a pretty good handle on the engines but rolling stock is another matter. Still have a couple of more shelves to do but in 3 years I think I will have accumulated 30 engines and 140 cars.  When I did my count, if I had a 6 car coal hopper set, I counted that as one. Same with passenger car sets, that is a one. Diesel ABA is also one. Funny I started out buying steamers and now have only 3. I still have a couple more diesels on order (BN) and one of the Big Boys. I am not going to count my post war or 027 cars and engines. Those are for "under the tree".

I guess my question is when do you know you have enough stuff?  OK my absolute limit would be needing to rent a storage unit to keep trains - for me that IS TOO MUCH. So far I have been good at selling off items that did not fit what I wanted to do. Two I am stuck on - A Pennsy GG1 and passenger set and a Norfolk and Western Passenger set waiting for a scale J class 611.  As much as I love the history of the Eastern railroads, I am finding myself building roads Chicago and west, so the Eastern roads do not seem to fit. Nevertheless, I am likely to hold on to the Pennsy and N&W roads as an homage to the GG1 and "J". 

And on another note, the CEO asked me if I could turn one of my buildings into a US Marine Corp recruiting office. My oldest spent 9 years in (enlisted and out as a Staff Sgt) and I agree it would be a nice touch.  Anyone done that?  I know we have several Marines on the forum.   

Jeff

Jeff,

Too much is different for each of us. As for me, I’ll know it when I see it. I’m pretty well set with my motive power and rolling stock. It would need to be really special for me to buy at this point.

Recruting office would be a nice touch.

Andy

Thanks Andy,  I was wondering, have you ever posted a video of your layout?  I went back to your link and remembered seeing the awesome building modeling you do.  Saw a bunch of individual photos, but nothing about the entire layout. Except of course the drawing plan on the first page. How do you like running a point to point layout? 

Morning guys, first off I want to say sorry as this could be a little long as I have been lazy not recognizing everyone's work!

@luvindemtrains Dave, Nice job on the fence! Iam with Bob I too like the Goodyear sign! I am thinking about redoing the picket fence around my park down the road!

@chris a Chris, Outstanding work on the walls the look great! I really like the viaducts for me maybe one day! LOL The lighting outside your station looks perfect! I can't wait to see the chandeliers inside! Yep your correct about the snow!

@WesternPacific2217 Scott looks alot better as a CAT! Great work!

@RSJB18 Bob, thanks for the link!

@M. Mitchell Marmel Mitch, its amazing what you come up with and build!

@Terry Luft Terry, great scene and like I said before that sure is alot of wire! LOL

@Tom Tee Tom, I agree with you totally! I had a guy call me at home and said I forgot him! He didn't even ask for help. He just excepted it!

@Capetrainman Paul, Thank you! Down the road I plan on putting lights in it like Scott did!

@ScoutingDad Jeff, maybe one day I will do an inventory but for now I think I have enough! I am only missing a couple passenger cars and maybe a baggage car for my new steam engine so I can make it look like the Polar Express! As for the Marine recruiting station, Go for it! and tell your son Semper Fi!

Well guys nothing from me as yesterday I was dealing with diverting water from the garage and train room from all the snow melting! LOL If it isn't one thing it's another. But I have a great plan today, after running to town later I plan on grabbing a cold one and spending the rest of the day running trains as it is just pouring outside!

I hope you all have a great day and please find time to have fun with your layout and trains!

@ScoutingDad posted:

Well after reading the discussion about having an inventory, I decided I should probably figure out what I have. Not done yet, but I think I bought way too much stuff for my grandkids.   I have a pretty good handle on the engines but rolling stock is another matter. Still have a couple of more shelves to do but in 3 years I think I will have accumulated 30 engines and 140 cars.  When I did my count, if I had a 6 car coal hopper set, I counted that as one. Same with passenger car sets, that is a one. Diesel ABA is also one. Funny I started out buying steamers and now have only 3. I still have a couple more diesels on order (BN) and one of the Big Boys. I am not going to count my post war or 027 cars and engines. Those are for "under the tree".

I guess my question is when do you know you have enough stuff?  OK my absolute limit would be needing to rent a storage unit to keep trains - for me that IS TOO MUCH. So far I have been good at selling off items that did not fit what I wanted to do. Two I am stuck on - A Pennsy GG1 and passenger set and a Norfolk and Western Passenger set waiting for a scale J class 611.  As much as I love the history of the Eastern railroads, I am finding myself building roads Chicago and west, so the Eastern roads do not seem to fit. Nevertheless, I am likely to hold on to the Pennsy and N&W roads as an homage to the GG1 and "J".

And on another note, the CEO asked me if I could turn one of my buildings into a US Marine Corp recruiting office. My oldest spent 9 years in (enlisted and out as a Staff Sgt) and I agree it would be a nice touch.  Anyone done that?  I know we have several Marines on the forum.   

Jeff

Jeff, I have inventoried my engines and cars.  I find myself with almost the same number as you; 27 engines and 137 cars.  Some were rather expensive and others were not.  I too think that is enough.  However, I have a couple of engines on order, both early B&O diesels I saw on the tracks near my home growing up.  I do have a few I plan to put up for sale as I don't run them and my interests have changed.  I bought a few thinking, get them while I can for grandchildren.  Well, we still have no grandchildren so who knows.

Thank your son for serving in the Marines!  My maternal grandfather was a Marine in the Philippines around 1910 and again in France in WWI.

Car bashing to make a Fort Wayne horse and mule car, and a Standard oil truck

I need to update my inventory but I'm so busy buying stuff that I don't have time......

Latest addition is an MTH LIRR SW-8 w/ PS-2. Should have it next week.

@Jim Van Every- a couple of neat projects. Looking forward to seeing the finished products.

@mike g.- I like your plan for the afternoon. After all the snow shoveling you have been doing you deserve the break.

@ScoutingDad- you have it backwards- you need a storage unit too put household c#*p in so that you have more room for trains.

Bob

RSJB18:  I am seeking a little advice.  I am thinking of formulating an update to my inventory, the last one is (embarrassingly nearly 20 years old and hand written on notebook paper) although I do mark off all my acquisitions in one of Greenbergs pocket price guide books.  I just wondered, what media are you using for your inventory and are you taking pictures of each item?  Is there a commercial software product to use ?  I also am facing the daunting task of what our Scandinavian friends call " death planning" and none of my children (1) or grandchildren(2) have any real interest in continuing the collection.  Thanks

Don

@Don McErlean posted:

RSJB18:  I am seeking a little advice.  I am thinking of formulating an update to my inventory, the last one is (embarrassingly nearly 20 years old and hand written on notebook paper) although I do mark off all my acquisitions in one of Greenbergs pocket price guide books.  I just wondered, what media are you using for your inventory and are you taking pictures of each item?  Is there a commercial software product to use ?  I also am facing the daunting task of what our Scandinavian friends call " death planning" and none of my children (1) or grandchildren(2) have any real interest in continuing the collection.  Thanks

Don

I use excel and just have a simple list at the moment. I intend to add more details as I update it to include TMCC addresses, and maintenance history.

@Don McErlean posted:

RSJB18:  I am seeking a little advice.  I am thinking of formulating an update to my inventory, the last one is (embarrassingly nearly 20 years old and hand written on notebook paper) although I do mark off all my acquisitions in one of Greenbergs pocket price guide books.  I just wondered, what media are you using for your inventory and are you taking pictures of each item?  Is there a commercial software product to use ?  I also am facing the daunting task of what our Scandinavian friends call " death planning" and none of my children (1) or grandchildren(2) have any real interest in continuing the collection.  Thanks

Don

Hi Don, share your dilemma, no one to take an interest in the family, and picture this collection on the side of the street as FREE.  This because they have no idea what thing are worth, even in today's world.  The itemized list somehow should have an estimated worth / date so this hopefully doesn't happen. It will take considerable time , to do this list,   Any suggestions ?   I'm at a loss here. RP

I purchased this MTH Ted's Tires building and decided to make some modifications to it.

There's plenty of software out there to do inventory although it may not be geared toward model railroading. I did a search for "collection inventory software in the cloud" and got some worthwhile candidates. But I have no recommendations, nor do I know what such an application would cost. Having it in the cloud seems like a good idea so that it can be accessed from anywhere including your phone.

@FECRailroaddog posted:

I purchased this MTH Ted's Tires building and decided to make some modifications to it.

Outstanding work, Railroaddog!  

@FECRailroaddog posted:

I purchased this MTH Ted's Tires building and decided to make some modifications to it.

Awesome work, personality changes so much. Thanks

I have been using a simple Excel spreadsheet for more than a few years now.  It works fine, I am sure there are "fancier" software options but Excel is easy to use, free.  I have added columns for "sold date", sold to, and sold price as I started thinning the herd several years ago.   Mine starts with the Manuf. Item #, then a description with Road Number so I can check the list and make sure I don't buy a "duplicate".   And yes I found I had at least 3 or 4 of the same cars when I first got serious about the inventory.   The columns then move onto Cost & Year of Purchase, and from whom, or where purchased... OGR forum, eBay, local Show etc.    It's worth the effort in my opinion, as I took it to my insurance representative along with some sample photos and he confirmed that I'd have no problem, if I ever needed to open a claim.   And yes, in the event of my unforeseen demise, it would definitely make life easier on my two children. 

I have also been using excel.   Created a tab for engines, passenger, rolling stock, cabooses, etc.   Then each tab with sections, MTH, Lionel, K line, etc.   Similar to other posts.  Part #, Description, Road #, Road name, purchase price, where purchased etc.    Having the separate tab for engines I then print the engine list as I have a column for Legacy ID # I assigned it.  Then keep on a clip board out by the layout to easily figure out engine ID.

I want to thank everyone who responded to my question (originally to RSJB18) about the inventory.  I appreciate all the advice and experience.  I think I will likely try Excel at first as I am familiar with that system from my engineering job.  Makes sense to try and see how hard that might be.  Great advice all and thank you for responding

Best wishes

Don

Richard Pardo...I agree, my nightmare is that the collection goes in the trash w/o anyone even being aware that it could have significant value.  As I said above, I am going to try Excel at first to get started and see how hard it is to do.  My experience with Excel is that one you have the columns set up, it can be fairly easy.  The nice thing about it is that you can put in the collectors value (for example) in dollars and then it can sum that column for you to give you totals.  That at least might give my survivors an idea of the value.

Don

@FECRailroaddog posted:

I purchased this MTH Ted's Tires building and decided to make some modifications to it.

WOW You did a great job there!!!!  If you hadn't told me it was prebuilt , I'd never had guessed . Keep up the great work, and have fun doing it !!!  RP

Still in process of pulling up track on my one mainline and yard, and rearranging all that, and part of my inner mainline to move everything to accommodate fitting in my Menards Cripple Creek 2 Bay Engine House so I have one bay access for each independent line into it. Major work in progress to fit that into a small layout but it will be worth it, it will be the focus building on my layout.

@mike g. posted:

Morning guys, first off, I want to thank you all for your thoughts about me. I am doing fine just whooped working with all this snow we have got and trying to help people why can't help themselves! It really sucks as there are people running around charging an arm and leg to help folks on fixed income. I do it for free as that is what my dad instilled in me! Here is what we have been dealing with and then on to some train stuff! LOL Mind you my deck railing is 6' tall and the snow pile is what was on the ground and the snow I had to take off the roof.

Now on to some train stuff, last time my grandkids were here I was informed there were no people of color on my layout. My grandkids are part Hispanic, so I spent a few nights right before bed painting some new people of color so they would fit in. My bad!

I also had an hour or so to add ground cover to the area I had to widen out for the overhang of my new steam engine. Here is what I have so far!

The Kids and grandkids came for Christmas after the new year, and we had a great time. They gave me one of the best out of the blue gift for my train layout! I have been looking for a Greyhound bus but everyone I found was way out of my price range and low and behold that's what I got from the grandkids!

I hope you are all well and having fun with your trains and layouts! Please be safe and it might be a couple days before I get back as I have a few more people to take care of. Now all we have to worry about for us is landslides as we live on top of a hill and if it slides it blocks the road!

Excellent that you have kindness in your heart to help others as you do!!!!!!!    Next , try getting the KIDS involved in this hobby. I'm doing this with 2 nephews , under 2 , and 8 yrs old . They love the trains and hopefully it will continue. Best wishes , and stay healthy .  R P

@SuperChief posted:

A few updates from the past few weeks. Saturday we ran trains. This is my 4 year old who loves trains right now more than anything. Trying to feed this as much as possible.

Over Christmas, we built a couple of flats and now need to install them. One has lights (video) the other still needs (pic). They also need some weathering.

GREAT. The look on his face says it all.  Have fun and stay safe.  R P

@FECRailroaddog posted:

I purchased this MTH Ted's Tires building and decided to make some modifications to it.

Nice job on that original  ' TED'S  TIRE ' .

Morning guys I hope everyone is doing well!

@Jim Van Every Jim, quite the undertaking for a horse & Mule car! But it looks like you have a great start! Wonderful looking tanker!

@FECRailroaddog What an outstanding transformation! I love the look of a real neighborhood garage!

@Richard Pardo Richard, thank you sir! I have tried to get the grandkids into the trains, they will come out watch them run, I even try to get them to run them their self's. But in 5 minutes they are back on their tablets! I guess if I had the Wi-Fi controller, they might be into it! LOL

Well guys my grand plan for grabbing a cold one and just running trains went out the window at a face pace yesterday! No train running today, I am really hopping for tomorrow!

Everyone have a great day and please have some fun with your layout and trains!

@Don McErlean posted:

Richard Pardo...I agree, my nightmare is that the collection goes in the trash w/o anyone even being aware that it could have significant value.  As I said above, I am going to try Excel at first to get started and see how hard it is to do.  My experience with Excel is that one you have the columns set up, it can be fairly easy.  The nice thing about it is that you can put in the collectors value (for example) in dollars and then it can sum that column for you to give you totals.  That at least might give my survivors an idea of the value.

Don

Don, that is what I did with Excel.  It isn't very fancy, but it gives the value I paid for everything.  My wife has a general idea of value, but certainly not specifics.  It would definitely help her or my daughters!

Thanks Mark, appreciate your responding.

Don

Thanks to Steve A., the RTC work train has a second prewar AF flat car...

Mitch

don.mcerlean

Relative to the question about inventory. I too have been using Excel with columns for item number (manufacturer) and description, date purchased, price, from whom and any comments relative to repairs or where the item is located. I also use the same spreadsheet for the circuit assignment(s) for the transformers. Each item has a hyperlink to a photo of the items. The photos are organized by year of purchase with a separate folder for materials like light bulbs. It's a lot easier when the spreadsheet is updated when a purchase is made.

I have been continuing to paint the rails on the tinplate track.

@Mark Boyce posted:

Don, that is what I did with Excel.  It isn't very fancy, but it gives the value I paid for everything.  My wife has a general idea of value, but certainly not specifics.  It would definitely help her or my daughters!

How soon are you guys planning on leaving Mark and Don ?

@Victor Bertolina posted:

don.mcerlean

Relative to the question about inventory. I too have been using Excel with columns for item number (manufacturer) and description, date purchased, price, from whom and any comments relative to repairs or where the item is located. I also use the same spreadsheet for the circuit assignment(s) for the transformers. Each item has a hyperlink to a photo of the items. The photos are organized by year of purchase with a separate folder for materials like light bulbs. It's a lot easier when the spreadsheet is updated when a purchase is made.

I have been continuing to paint the rails on the tinplate track.

Victor, I have been contemplating painting my rails.

It looks IMO to be quite a daunting task.  How do you paint your rails ? 🤔

I finished-up a postponed project ... to improve a MTH Country Church. I added these extra features:

* Cut and glued small pieces of "stained glass" acetate to all its gothic-style windows for a better, church-y look. I purchased the acetate sheet online from a vendor in the UK; several designs were available. I chose one without liturgical symbols or  images of saints for a "generic Protestant" look.

* Installed two add'l light bulbs to the interior in order to "light-up" the stained glass windows. The MTH factory-installed single light bulb was not enough illumination.  Now when the train room is darkened, the stained glass glows!

* Replaced the plastic cross atop the steeple with a fancier crucifix; a jewelry piece, actually.

* Installed a small transformer as a power supply for the sound board.

* Installed a sound board that plays the sound of a church bell and a music excerpt from "Here Comes the Bride."  I placed a small speaker in the attic space of the building for playback. I can activate the sound effects with a Lionel #90 control button mounted on the nearby fascia board.

* These add-ons make the church an accompaniment to a wedding in progress at the Pergola on the lawn outside, where the bride and groom, the dog of the groom, the wedding party, a priest and two nuns, and family/friends as the audience are present. A Caddy convertible is parked nearby with strings of tin cans attached to the rear bumper.

I know -- it's not a "railroad" accessory with RR-related sounds and motion. Nevertheless, it contributes to the acoustic environment of a scene, athough a visitor wouldn't recognize these improvements at first glance.

Mike Mottler     LCCA 12394

@Dallas Joseph posted:

How soon are you guys planning on leaving Mark and Don ?

Why, are you hoping to get our trains?  😄

(tries inventorying collection) (gives up after 15 gi-raffe cars)  Nobody'd believe me anyway. 

Mitch

@Jeff, thank you for the kind words. I have not made a video, but it is on my to do list at some point. I feel like the layout is a little “unfinished” and needs a ton of scenery work done, but I have been more active with some recent projects.
I really enjoy running a point to point layout. I get to follow the train around and throw some switches here and there. And there are many switching opportunities for freight runs.

Andy

Jim, outstanding car bashing.

FECdog, wow! That’s a big transformation, great work.

Mike M., can we see some pictures? Sounds like some nice additions.

Thank you Bob for the reminder about inventory. Also on my to do list.

Andy

@M. Mitchell Marmel posted:

(tries inventorying collection) (gives up after 15 gi-raffe cars)  Nobody'd believe me anyway. 

Mitch

ONLY 15!

@Don McErlean- another idea is to create a photo library of your inventory. I like Victor's idea of adding links right on the spreadsheet.

@Mike H Mottler posted:

I finished-up a postponed project ... to improve a MTH Country Church. I added these extra features:

I know -- it's not a "railroad" accessory with RR-related sounds and motion. Nevertheless, it contributes to the acoustic environment of a scene, athough a visitor wouldn't recognize these improvements at first glance.

Mike Mottler     LCCA 12394

Sounds like a nice project. Please share some pix when you can. The scenery makes the RR. I have an old sound board for a church, too bad I don't have room on the layout for one.

@FECRailroaddog- The gas station looks great. Nice customization work. Or is it kit bashing

Still waiting for my replacement fire kit. Shipping delays...... So to pass the time I bought a new diesel.

LIRR SW-8, MTH w/ PS2

Bob

@Mark Boyce posted:

Why, are you hoping to get our trains?  😄

Oh Mark , I don't know where you are getting this idea from.

I'm innocently just sitting in my layout area printing up meager little fast stick price stickers and trying to figure out where your little lady likes to get gift cards for her  shopping needs.

@RSJB18 posted:

Still waiting for my replacement fire kit. Shipping delays...... So to pass the time I bought a new diesel.

LIRR SW-8, MTH w/ PS2

Bob

Great idea Bob.    I wish I was passing the time like you do waiting for a " replacement fire kit. " 

HE! HE!

What's the old saying? Idle hands are the devil's playground?

Dallas Joseph - RE Painting rails - I am using rustoleum paint in a can ("satin black" and "rusty metal primer") and brushing it on the entire rail. After letting the paint set a little, say 30 to 60 minutes, I pass a paper towel strip wrapped around a block of wood over the rail tops so the top surface can conduct electricity. I am using clean paint thinner to wet the paper towel (not too much thinner, just dip part of the strip in the thinner and wrap tightly around the wood block).  That keeps from removing too much paint. This tip was posted by someone else earlier - thank you very much. I found the best way was to paint the outside rails first with the red color, clean and let dry, then the center rail with the black paint since I could then touchup any excess red paint that got on the ties or turnout surfaces with the black at the same time.  It does take a while and is a little tedious but there is no need to hurry when one is retired!

@M. Mitchell Marmel posted:

(tries inventorying collection) (gives up after 15 gi-raffe cars)  Nobody'd believe me anyway. 

Mitch

Maybe you had AGF turned on? (Auto Giraffe Repeat)

Still waiting for my replacement fire kit. Shipping delays...... So to pass the time I bought a new diesel.

LIRR SW-8, MTH w/ PS2

Bob

That’s a sharp looking engine Bob!

Andy

@Dallas Joseph posted:

Oh Mark , I don't know where you are getting this idea from.

I'm innocently just sitting in my layout area printing up meager little fast stick price stickers and trying to figure out where your little lady likes to get gift cards for her  shopping needs.

I'll never tell where she gets them! 

@Victor Bertolina posted:

Dallas Joseph - RE Painting rails - I am using rustoleum paint in a can ("satin black" and "rusty metal primer") and brushing it on the entire rail. After letting the paint set a little, say 30 to 60 minutes, I pass a paper towel strip wrapped around a block of wood over the rail tops so the top surface can conduct electricity. I am using clean paint thinner to wet the paper towel (not too much thinner, just dip part of the strip in the thinner and wrap tightly around the wood block).  That keeps from removing too much paint. This tip was posted by someone else earlier - thank you very much. I found the best way was to paint the outside rails first with the red color, clean and let dry, then the center rail with the black paint since I could then touchup any excess red paint that got on the ties or turnout surfaces with the black at the same time.  It does take a while and is a little tedious but there is no need to hurry when one is retired!

Victor, My wife and I trying to get the hang of this retired thing.  I retired two years ago, but went through 2 orthopedic surgeries and recoveries, and am now starting to get around.  My wife just retired at the end of October.  Just yesterday, she told me she was glad to see me painting a kit so she wouldn't feel guilty doing some sewing. 

@Steamfan77 posted:

@Jeff, thank you for the kind words. I have not made a video, but it is on my to do list at some point. I feel like the layout is a little “unfinished” and needs a ton of scenery work done, but I have been more active with some recent projects.
I really enjoy running a point to point layout. I get to follow the train around and throw some switches here and there. And there are many switching opportunities for freight runs.

Andy

@Steamfan77  I understand what you are saying about having a lot of work to do before thinking the layout is "good enough" to post. I found the rough build history found on layout pages to be really interesting. Even on my own layout.  looking back I am surprised at the changes and the amount of progress. I cannot imagine anyone having a negative comment about an awesome work in progress - unless of course the video is taken in vertical format - that usually garners several comments. Best

On my next layout, I think I am going to end up with one or two point to point sections. One for a Shay hauling timber up and down. The other for an MTH European set with scale wheels unless I can manage to work in a full 2 rail scale line.

@GeoPeg posted:

Maybe you had AGF turned on? (Auto Giraffe Repeat)

You might just have something, there...

Mitch

Thank you Jeff, you convinced me. I need to clean the layout up a little first. Note taken about the vertical view. 👍🏻
Andy

@Mark Boyce posted:

I'll never tell where she gets them! 

Victor, My wife and I trying to get the hang of this retired thing.  I retired two years ago, but went through 2 orthopedic surgeries and recoveries, and am now starting to get around.  My wife just retired at the end of October.  Just yesterday, she told me she was glad to see me painting a kit so she wouldn't feel guilty doing some sewing. 

Hi Mark

I have enjoyed reading your posts. Adapting to a retired lifestyle is not for the faint-hearted. It is so much different than spending 10+ hours per day in an professional career. Now that my wife has retired and just about recovered from a serious illness, we can do some traveling. The train stuff always interested me but until retirement and building a train room, there was no way to enjoy it. I did start purchasing a few years ago without any real idea what the layout would look like. For the most part, I was able to utilize the items purchased. I am doing more work with the church in an effort to be more useful. At age 72, I don't need any significant challenges. Hopefully you will or have fully recovered from the orthopedic issues and can enjoy the spousal company as well.

I revisited the painting of the bridge I built after I received some encouragement and direction from Dave (Luvindemtrains). I’m much happier with this version. I installed it this afternoon. Thank you again for your help Dave! I will add the ground cover behind the abutments and add the stream under the bridge. The areas of green simulate moss. There is a lot more on the prototype as this is a north facing surface, and sees no direct sunlight.
Andy

Andy,

No problem. This looks very good without scenery, so once that is added you will have a heck of a representation of the prototype.

Dave

Good Afternoon,

Today I finished some laundry. It's hung up now, ironically using clothespins to aid me in keeping the lines from pulling through the holes before glued in place.

Dave

Haven't posted since the Mesa was completed. With the Holidays and work, I spend what free time I have (or steal) working on the scenery. Although I check the posts often, forgot all about posting my own adventure. Here is where it is at today. Currently working on fencing to keep the cows off the tracks!

Today, playing with the Sante Fe, and getting ready to tackle a few projects on the layout. Happy Railroading Everyone

Andy- that bridge is going to be beautiful when it's done (it already is). Love the LIRR S2

Dave- neat project, love the attention to detail.

Larry- A different view of your beautiful layout.

I had mentioned an issue with my Menards F7 derailing over a switch last week. I was able to fix it this afternoon by adding a shim under the tie closest to the left switch to lift up the outside rail of the exiting track. Seems to have solved the problem. I forgot to take a pic before I repaired the ballast.

I also ran my LIRR SW8 for a bit. Great engine, I'm very happy with it.

Bob

Glad you fixed the issue with the switch, that can drive you crazy.

That S-2 is one of my favorite engines.

Dave, the laundry is a nice touch, what a great idea.

Larry, thanks for the videos, that is an impressive layout.

Andy

@luvindemtrains posted:

Good Afternoon,

Today I finished some laundry. It's hung up now, ironically using clothespins to aid me in keeping the lines from pulling through the holes before glued in place.

Dave

That is so neat. How about a teeny weinee yellow bikini? Lingerie?

@M. Mitchell Marmel posted:

You might just have something, there...

Mitch

The ASPCA has been notified of a potential hoarding situation involving exotic animals

@RSJB18 posted:

Still waiting for my replacement fire kit. Shipping delays...... So to pass the time I bought a new diesel.

LIRR SW-8, MTH w/ PS2

Bob

Fantasy or not, nice looking engine, Bob. But I think they misspelled Lawn-guy-lind...

@Apples55 posted:

The ASPCA has been notified of a potential hoarding situation involving exotic animals

Ruh-ro. 

@Victor Bertolina posted:

Dallas Joseph - RE Painting rails - I am using rustoleum paint in a can ("satin black" and "rusty metal primer") and brushing it on the entire rail. After letting the paint set a little, say 30 to 60 minutes, I pass a paper towel strip wrapped around a block of wood over the rail tops so the top surface can conduct electricity. I am using clean paint thinner to wet the paper towel (not too much thinner, just dip part of the strip in the thinner and wrap tightly around the wood block).  That keeps from removing too much paint. This tip was posted by someone else earlier - thank you very much. I found the best way was to paint the outside rails first with the red color, clean and let dry, then the center rail with the black paint since I could then touchup any excess red paint that got on the ties or turnout surfaces with the black at the same time.  It does take a while and is a little tedious but there is no need to hurry when one is retired!

Thanks Victor.

Your method and material has given the track a really nice look sir.

Yup , no sense in getting in a hurry in retirement .  Sometimes I guess I forget that I don't have to satisfy a production number anymore.

@Victor Bertolina posted:

Hi Mark

I have enjoyed reading your posts. Adapting to a retired lifestyle is not for the faint-hearted. It is so much different than spending 10+ hours per day in an professional career. Now that my wife has retired and just about recovered from a serious illness, we can do some traveling. The train stuff always interested me but until retirement and building a train room, there was no way to enjoy it. I did start purchasing a few years ago without any real idea what the layout would look like. For the most part, I was able to utilize the items purchased. I am doing more work with the church in an effort to be more useful. At age 72, I don't need any significant challenges. Hopefully you will or have fully recovered from the orthopedic issues and can enjoy the spousal company as well.

Thank you, Victor!  Travel.  We would like to, but my wife’s mum lives across the road and panics even if we go for part of the day.  Oh well, if we never do it, that’s okay.

Its been a fun discussion!  I stopped on the scenery until I get to Lowes or Home Depot for some extruded styrofoam.  In the meantime, I have built the shell of the Altoona Model Works Branchline Station.  I painted all the parts, but forgot to take a photograph.  I’ll catch you up on that between trips out with the snowblower.  😉

GNRW operating session videos and pictures; 'first run' of the N&W Jawn Henry.

https://ogrforum.ogaugerr.com/...9#158533581959899549

@Apples55 posted:

Fantasy or not, nice looking engine, Bob. But I think they misspelled Lawn-guy-lind...

I don't know why the mfr's can't get it right........

Great work by everyone !   Too many posts and photos to reply to each one.   Been busy tying up loose ends.  Got the chandeliers installed in Union Station, and installed more cross hatch window dividers in the large arch entry.

Decided while the front center of the layout was under construction update with the Pennsy Block retaining wall upgrades, I should take the opportunity to install new Kadee Uncouplers on the Mine Run.   Managed to come up with a "set - up" that produces pretty reliable and repeatable  "delayed coupling" action which I want to have to spot hoppers under the Coal Tipples, so I figured just make up a bunch of assemblies that are completely super-glued together and ready to install on either Gargraves or Ross track sections that are fully ballasted.  This is working well, all I have to do is drill out the glued ballast, and install two flat head countersunk #6 steel screws which hold the bar magnet assemblies in place while the siliconized latex caulk applied to the top of the ties holds everything in alignment.   The small metal strips are from the Green File Folders that one uses in old school file cabinets to hold and organize manila folders.  It's perfect size stock for this job, dirt cheap and easy to cut to length. 

Guys and Gals,

The original poster that started this thread has been missing in action for quite some time.  For the past several months members have been emailing us asking why he isn't posting any longer.  Doing some research we found that he also is no longer a subscriber as well as not posting regularly.  We decided to try to contact him but after several tries with no response we came to the conclusion that something may have happened.  Frankly, with all that is going on health-wise in the world today, I was worried so I did some research and did not come up with any notices.  With that in mind we felt that this thread deserved to be authored by an active and well known and liked member.  During a discussion with Alex Malliae I brought up this topic and told him that we were considering trying to find someone to author the thread and then it occurred to me that Alex would be perfect for the job!  So ... I asked if he would be interested.  He responded in the affirmative but expressed that he did not want the OP to be upset with him nor anyone else on the forum for stepping up to the task of overseeing the thread.  With that said, I made one more attempt to communicate with the OP but to no avail so we have made Alex the author to this thread.  I realize some of you may not agree but we are not going to make everyone happy however we felt that a popular thread such as this deserved an author that was active on the forum and openly involved in the hobby.  We realize that there are other (and a lot smaller) threads that may have authors that are no longer with us but this thread is in a different league.  I certainly hope that you will agree with us that Alex is up to the task of supporting this thread with some of his posts and will lead the thread into many more years here on the forum.  All that we ask of you is to keep on topic and keep off topic discussion between yourselves via profile email.  This thread is intended for posts that show and tell what you have recently done on your layout.  Thanks for your support!

Thanks for the update Alan. Also thanks for the support of this thread by the Forum. It is always my first stop when I log on each day.

Alex- welcome to the party and thanks for carrying on the tradition. Now....what ever happened with YOUR layout?????

Bob

Chris, the additions to the station look great. Can we see a video of the uncouplers in action?

Alex, I’m with Bob, what are you up to on your layout?

Andy

After years of looking at this space trees are growing.  Supervised by Sam.

I started to take this set out of the box and play with it. The set is very eye catching, all the way to the box it comes in. I still have a couple of cars to pull out of the box. But so far this is what I’ve ran, weathered, and had fun with during my free time these past couple of weeks.

Sharp set Jesse, nice job on the weathering.

Andy

@OGR CEO-PUBLISHER posted:

Guys and Gals,

The original poster that started this thread has been missing in action for quite some time.  For the past several months members have been emailing us asking why he isn't posting any longer.  Doing some research we found that he also is no longer a subscriber as well as not posting regularly.  We decided to try to contact him but after several tries with no response we came to the conclusion that something may have happened.  Frankly, with all that is going on health-wise in the world today, I was worried so I did some research and did not come up with any notices.  With that in mind we felt that this thread deserved to be authored by an active and well known and liked member.  During a discussion with Alex Malliae I brought up this topic and told him that we were considering trying to find someone to author the thread and then it occurred to me that Alex would be perfect for the job!  So ... I asked if he would be interested.  He responded in the affirmative but expressed that he did not want the OP to be upset with him nor anyone else on the forum for stepping up to the task of overseeing the thread.  With that said, I made one more attempt to communicate with the OP but to no avail so we have made Alex the author to this thread.  I realize some of you may not agree but we are not going to make everyone happy however we felt that a popular thread such as this deserved an author that was active on the forum and openly involved in the hobby.  We realize that there are other (and a lot smaller) threads that may have authors that are no longer with us but this thread is in a different league.  I certainly hope that you will agree with us that Alex is up to the task of supporting this thread with some of his posts and will lead the thread into many more years here on the forum.  All that we ask of you is to keep on topic and keep off topic discussion between yourselves via profile email.  This thread is intended for posts that show and tell what you have recently done on your layout.  Thanks for your support!

Alan, i thank you for making me the author of this awesome thread. I will chime in from time to time, I'm always extremely busy , but i make it my business to check in here at least 3 to 4 times per day, sometimes even more.

I'm honored to be a part of this forum !

Thanks, Alex

Hi Bob and Andy

unfortunately I had to stop progress on my layout for a two  of reasons. First is, I’m extremely busy with Lionel repairs and upgrades. Second is we pretty much have become empty nesters and our current home is way to large for us. We are still up in the air if we will buy a smaller home or not. Wherever we end up there will be a layout built.

The layout is still up and running , I use it to test my repairs and upgrades. It’s only benchwork , and track.  There’s no scenery. Sometime in the next week or two , I will post a video of the layout.

Thanks , Alex

@Alex M posted:

Hi Bob and Andy

unfortunately I had to stop progress on my layout for a two  of reasons. First is, I’m extremely busy with Lionel repairs and upgrades. Second is we pretty much have become empty nesters and our current home is way to large for us. We are still up in the air if we will buy a smaller home or not. Wherever we end up there will be a layout built.

The layout is still up and running , I use it to test my repairs and upgrades. It’s only benchwork , and track.  There’s no scenery. Sometime in the next week or two , I will post a video of the layout.

Thanks , Alex

No worries Alex. Life does get in the way from time to time. At least your work is train-centric.

Bob

Thank you for the video Chris, very smooth operation. I may look into those for my yard.

Andy

Alex Malliae is the perfect choice to head up this continuing thread, he’s very knowledgeable on all aspects of this hobby, from repairing our trains, to professionally building a beautiful train layout, awesome choice. Thank you Alan for making this change on the largest thread on the OGR Forum. It just keeps getting better. Happy Railroading Everyone

@Alex M posted:

Alan, i thank you for making me the author of this awesome thread. I will chime in from time to time, I'm always extremely busy , but i make it my business to check in here at least 3 to 4 times per day, sometimes even more.

I'm honored to be a part of this forum !

Thanks, Alex

Alex,

I know that you will do a great job heading this epic thread (a never miss one for me - I check it out at least once a day and contribute when I can).

If you and the Mrs. decide to move, I wish you the best of luck house hunting - I hope that you'll find the perfect attic, basement or bonus room for the new rendition of The JADA Railroad.

Question; is JADA the initials of family members or is there another meaning?

Alan, Thank you for recognizing this thread as special and doing due diligence in trying to learn the OPs status.  I think Alex is a great choice!

Alex, thank you for accepting! 

Chris, the chandelier really looks great in the Union Station!

I did not get out to get Styrofoam for scenery, and will now wait until later in the week.  Here is my Altoona Branch Line Station painted ready for windows, doors, trim, and roof.  I saw a good photograph of the color scheme posted on Facebook by an HO Western Maryland Rwy modeler.  He is making his models white with red trim, but I think a light gray with burgundy trim looks more like the photographs.  I painted this one, but after looking at it, decided to make the next coat a lighter gray.  I actually like the results.  It looks like it has been painted in recent years, but not a fresh paint job like the HO modeler is doing.  I need to go back and lighten up the gray on my Atlas switch tower I built while recuperating last summer.

One thing I am going to change on this building is the unpainted wall inside the bay window.  The solid wall piece makes for a strong structure, but I think I will cut out the section of wall below the window which will still be seen once the windows and roof are on.  I don't plan to add an interior now, but will make the roof removable like I did with the signal tower, so I can get in there if I need to.  I will mount an LED light on the center rafter while I am building now.

@Alex M posted:

Hi Bob and Andy

unfortunately I had to stop progress on my layout for a two  of reasons. First is, I’m extremely busy with Lionel repairs and upgrades. Second is we pretty much have become empty nesters and our current home is way to large for us. We are still up in the air if we will buy a smaller home or not. Wherever we end up there will be a layout built.

The layout is still up and running , I use it to test my repairs and upgrades. It’s only benchwork , and track.  There’s no scenery. Sometime in the next week or two , I will post a video of the layout.

Thanks , Alex

Hi Alex. I’m in the same boat, but there is no need to stop working on your layout.  We became empty nesters last year and are still unsure what to do. Our house is rather large and multi level, which may not be too great on the knees as we advance in age and ultimately enter retirement. However, for now, it looks like we’ll be in a holding pattern and the empty bedrooms make great additional office/work rooms as well as additional space for a new train layout. In fact, when the better half told me I could use one of the empty bedrooms for another train layout, it pretty much sealed the deal for staying a little longer, LOL! Good luck on whatever you decide with your transition.

That is going to turn out really nice Mark. The cart is a great idea for a mobile work surface and storage area.

@chris a posted:

SSteamfan77Member DIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

Chris, the additions to the station look great. Can we see a video of the uncouplers in action?

Alex, I’m with Bob, what are you up to on your layout?

Andy

Andy,  I shot some video about 11 months ago, when I started installing the 805 couplers and 809 uncouplers.   I'll shoot some more, but the 809 uncouplers,  in this video were the first ones I built this way.  Ordered a bunch of different Neodymium magnets, set up a test track on the bench, and then when I started getting repeatable results, I installed them in the yard.   If you go to the 2:45 time mark in the video, you can see how the "delayed" coupling works with this set up.   The 809 is mounted where the small piece of wood and blue masking tape is.

Make sure to check the resolution in the YouTube settings,  it was shot at 1080p which helps see what's going on.  Everytime I log on it defaults to a lower resolution playback.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?...GGTLLGd50&t=179s

Chris,

I remember your original posting about this and I watched your video when you originally posted it as well. Where exactly did you install the magnets? Also, does it matter where you install the uncouplers? My apologies if you already discussed this.

Dave

@Tranquil Hollow RR posted:

That is going to turn out really nice Mark. The cart is a great idea for a mobile work surface and storage area.

Thank you, Jay!  It is a necessity since I have no space for a workbench.  I sit on the rolling stool and can reach other tools and materials on shelves under the layout.  You would think we live in an apartment 😄  No it’s a small split entry, but we are storing a lot of our older daughter and son-in-law’s furniture and piano while they remodel a 110-year old house.