We purchased an old Noma train station for a bargain at a show at the beginning of the year. It was missing some stickers and of course the sound system. I just got the stickers in the mail today so I threw them on a put a couple of people on it too. I am thinking of putting a Bluetooth speaker in it for some announcements. I think it looks good.
@IRON HORSE posted:I finally finished cutting out my 9 foot wide Chicago skyline that I attached to foam board. Tedious work but not as difficult as I thought. Too bad my Bears are doing so lousy because I had Soldier Field placed in the foreground. My next step will be to mount it a little higher using velcro so I can run my subway set in front of it without blocking the view.
Looks really good.
@Mark Boyce posted:Thank you! That is great! I worked for power company during the first half of my working days, than worked for telephone company the last half. The kit looks quite authentic for a small distribution station from you photographs.
No problem, I also work at a combine cycle generating facility. The kit has everything you would expect to find in a high voltage switch yard, transformer, disconnects, switchgear, and control panels.
it is a standard cornerstone sprue styrene Kit. Instructions are well done, testors liquid cement in brush bottle is ideal, grey automotive primer, maybe Krylon Khaki for base work. Nice small footprint and no one will know it’s HO scale unless you point it out
I used a H-frame design for the high voltage transmission lines. You can find the specs and drawings of these online. EZ line works great
@Cogen1981 posted:No problem, I also work at a combine cycle generating facility. The kit has everything you would expect to find in a high voltage switch yard, transformer, disconnects, switchgear, and control panels.
it is a standard cornerstone sprue styrene Kit. Instructions are well done, testors liquid cement in brush bottle is ideal, grey automotive primer, maybe Krylon Khaki for base work. Nice small footprint and no one will know it’s HO scale unless you point it out
I used a H-frame design for the high voltage transmission lines. You can find the specs and drawings of these online. EZ line works great
Now I see where you get your Forum name Cogen1981! 
I just ordered the substation kit. Thank you for the information on the transmission lines too. I have the parts for transmission towers very similar to yours. I want to get the scenery started on my layout so I have a place to put them. If I build them first, I'm afraid I will set them someplace where they can get broken. All the benchwork and track is in. I'm wiring now and am ready to start scenery, my favorite part of the hobby besides running trains.
I widened the double portal by splicing in an inch.
Cut an inch from a portal I couldn't use and glued into the double portal.
Added strength to the archway on its back with white plastic styrene.
Glued altogether tonight and tested her out with the widest, tallest, longest cars...
We passed tonight's test.
Yeah! 😃
Before today...
After today...
@IRON HORSE posted:I finally finished cutting out my 9 foot wide Chicago skyline that I attached to foam board. Tedious work but not as difficult as I thought. Too bad my Bears are doing so lousy because I had Soldier Field placed in the foreground. My next step will be to mount it a little higher using velcro so I can run my subway set in front of it without blocking the view.
Your Chicago skyline is superb! Where did you get it?
Randy Harrison,
I got the backdrop from Railroad Backdrops, a sponsor here. Great, talented guys. As I recall, they had some Chicago scenes but not what I was looking for. I asked for Soldier Field and they contacted me and said they were going to be in Chicago soon for shooting photos. They asked for other views and I told them they needed to park in front of the Adler Planetarium and take some pictures of the skyline from there and that is what I bought that you see. They said they not only could superimpose Soldier Field in front, but could also scale the whole scene to my liking. I gave them the scale dimensions I wanted and that is what you see. The project was a little pricey compared to the standard shelf backdrops but I am very pleased with the result. And the money I paid is not only long forgotten, but very well worth it when you consider the amount of custom labor and time to make it for me to my specs. Plus the paper is vinyl and washable -- so very durable. I mounted it to foam board because none of my layouts have been permanent -- and it also gives me the option of changing it around on my current layout.
BTW, I like your Great Northeastern Railway logo. I've ridden the Empire Builder to Glacier park 3 times and it is dear to my heart.
I am truly inspired by the creative skills on this thread. I am hoping to work on some of the types of buildings that I have seen on this thread over the past few days. Going to take time to learn how to paint the structures and such. I was sharing the photos with my daughters and they noticed the cool backdrops in many of the layouts on the forum. They decided to help me out by making backdrops for our layout. Had to share and laugh.
Chris enjoy the participation now and take all of it in! At some point in a few years the majority of kids will usually will loose interest. However, than magically they discover that spending time with their parents isn’t to bad. Nonetheless, keep the backdrops going, they make your layout uniquely yours.
@Chris1985, good for you -- you have a way to engage your daughters with your hobby.
Suggestion: In addition to backdrops, see if they would like to paint unpainted animals and people for the layout -- mine did for a while.
Looking, good everyone! Today I finally was able to finish and publish a new product review of Lionel's Frisco Meteor. Thanks for watching/reading, and Mery Christmas!
Finished my scratch built platform lamp post project. I was going to put three lamp posts on every platform, but settled for two. Then i wired in the LEDs and lamp posts to the main light power terminal. Lots more to do on my elevated subway station terminal project, but it’s starting to come along
I have been using ballast from Omni Models. I blend different colors. I did a small section in my tunnel and then stopped because track plan changes my need to be made.
Have a good week.
Sincerely, John Rowlen
Over the weekend, I mounted my TIU, two MTH 24-port terminal strips, and two PSX-1AC solid stated circuit breakers. Before mounting to the plywood, I connected the TIU fixed outputs to the PSX-1AC and put a short circuit on the output. The voltmeter on the output showed the solid state circuit breaker tripped before the Z4000 breaker tripped. When I removed the short circuit, output voltage was restored. The top terminal strip is for TIU fixed output 1 which feeds the mainline blocks. I tested each block with an engine as I connected each. The bottom Terminal strip will be TIU fixed output 2 and feed all sidings. I still need to get some switches so I can turn off power to any siding and leave the others powered. Actually I haven't decided what switches to get or how I will make a panel to mount them. The wires to the track are only loosely bound so I can add the rest of the feeders. Please ignore the crooked devices. I can't seem to do anything straight any more. 
Cogen 1981, I called my two dealers and they are holding the engines until they can look at them and verify the color. A Code 1 motor failure is a BIG deal. Good luck with your return. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Sincerely, John Rowlen
@Mark Boyce posted:Over the weekend, I mounted my TIU, two MTH 24-port terminal strips, and two PSX-1AC solid stated circuit breakers. Before mounting to the plywood, I connected the TIU fixed outputs to the PSX-1AC and put a short circuit on the output. The voltmeter on the output showed the solid state circuit breaker tripped before the Z4000 breaker tripped. When I removed the short circuit, output voltage was restored. The top terminal strip is for TIU fixed output 1 which feeds the mainline blocks. I tested each block with an engine as I connected each. The bottom Terminal strip will be TIU fixed output 2 and feed all sidings. I still need to get some switches so I can turn off power to any siding and leave the others powered. Actually I haven't decided what switches to get or how I will make a panel to mount them. The wires to the track are only loosely bound so I can add the rest of the feeders. Please ignore the crooked devices. I can't seem to do anything straight any more.
That looks great Mark and I like the PSX's.
My MTH terminal strips came with a green chart to write in where each numbered outgoing pair is going to; which can be invaluable when it comes to troubleshooting issues.
Mark Boyce, Wow, your layout is amazing, you have utilized your space really well, and your organization skills of mounting your electrical components is so neat. Your wiring is so neat, mine looks like a good Italian plate of Spaghetti.... Just a little humor there, but it is a mess. One thing I did, and this is over 21 years, I used Lionel BPC’s for block power, ASC’s for all of the turnouts. Also, when I get a few hours that allows me to concentrate, I’ll wire in the Atlas O uncouple tracks, and the Gargraves uncouple tracks. Then, I’ll set up routes.... as you know it just takes time, a lot of thinking, and a whole lot of Praying. Trainmaster04, Wow,that’s a beautiful Frisco Steamer. I’ll watch the video soon and thank you very much for posting it. Today I tried out my new Ford switcher. Happy Railroading Everyone 
OK Leapinlarry: I have been a Ford guy my whole life, starting with the first Mustang , a 64 1/2 ! and I have 2 Explorers today. I just want to know who makes that gorgeous Ford switcher!! I just gotta have one!
Don
Thank you Don McErlean, somewhere on the OGR Forum I reviewed a thread with this same switcher doing its duty, shuffling cars in and out of the various yards. I, working for a Honda/Ford dealer for 23 years just had to bite the bullet and get one. It’s a Lionel legacy Alco S2 Ford switcher. #2033090 and I ordered it from Trainworld. I asked for Triple Packaging and they did the very best job of packing I have ever experienced. Also, ordered on Wednesday December 9th, it arrived on Saturday December 12th. Unbelievable service, it worked right out of the box. Good luck in getting one. They are sweet Switchers. 
@Richie C. posted:That looks great Mark and I like the PSX's.
My MTH terminal strips came with a green chart to write in where each numbered outgoing pair is going to; which can be invaluable when it comes to troubleshooting issues.
@leapinlarry posted:Mark Boyce, Wow, your layout is amazing, you have utilized your space really well, and your organization skills of mounting your electrical components is so neat. Your wiring is so neat, mine looks like a good Italian plate of Spaghetti.... Just a little humor there, but it is a mess. One thing I did, and this is over 21 years, I used Lionel BPC’s for block power, ASC’s for all of the turnouts. Also, when I get a few hours that allows me to concentrate, I’ll wire in the Atlas O uncouple tracks, and the Gargraves uncouple tracks. Then, I’ll set up routes.... as you know it just takes time, a lot of thinking, and a whole lot of Praying.
Richie, Thank you!!! Mine did not come with anything to write in the destinations. I am planning on making a little spreadsheet with all that information. For now, I have marked all my power gaps on a couple printouts of my SCARM plan, then I am putting the terminal number next to the track. It is just a working drawing. Once I make sure I have it the way I like it, I'll write them in right on the SCARM plan.
Larry, Thank you!! Yes, I'll have all the DZ1000s to wire in and I still haven't determined what to do with uncouplers. Well at least I haven't done too bad just closing in on one year that this version of the layout has been under construction. I still have 20 to go! 
Oh wait, my layout is just a smidgeon smaller than yours. 
Your Ford switcher is really sharp looking. No doubt it is special for all the years you sold Fords. Now if they would come out with a switcher painted for Virginia Power or North Pittsburgh Telephone I would buy it right away! 
Getting ready for my operating session this Saturday:
While waiting for Christmas deliveries, had some time to run trains and snap pictures. Apologies for the odd orientation.
@Mark Boyce posted:Over the weekend, I mounted my TIU, two MTH 24-port terminal strips, and two PSX-1AC solid stated circuit breakers. Before mounting to the plywood, I connected the TIU fixed outputs to the PSX-1AC and put a short circuit on the output. The voltmeter on the output showed the solid state circuit breaker tripped before the Z4000 breaker tripped. When I removed the short circuit, output voltage was restored. The top terminal strip is for TIU fixed output 1 which feeds the mainline blocks. I tested each block with an engine as I connected each. The bottom Terminal strip will be TIU fixed output 2 and feed all sidings. I still need to get some switches so I can turn off power to any siding and leave the others powered. Actually I haven't decided what switches to get or how I will make a panel to mount them. The wires to the track are only loosely bound so I can add the rest of the feeders. Please ignore the crooked devices. I can't seem to do anything straight any more.
So Mark, the PSX-1AC SS C.B.’s protect all your engines w/o having to put a protective device on each one ?
Passenger train testing on the mainline:
Years ago, I bought a 6 car K-line PRR passenger set. It has some interesting cars that can stand in for a diner, a sleeper an observation car and baggage car. But the color always bothered me. Later I bought 3 MTH PRR cars, a combine, a diner and RPO. I liked the color, details and close to PRR designs. But they were just a little short. Last week after more research and a lot of thought, I decided to go Lionel for some 18 inch 4 wheel truck coaches and found 2 on the bay. For a local or short distance train with a baggage/mail car, one can be a coach and the other a "Cafe coach" as the dimensions and basic window placement is OK for me. I can mix in the K-line sleeper, diner and observation cars for a long distance train . The first of the cars came today. The diaphragms were jammed in the ends and were squished a little. But I found the "hot water fix" on the forum and they straightened out quite well.
I spent time running the new Lionel 2033520 BNSF ES44AC #5815 while I did laundry. The BNSF five horns are different from the CSX Veterans ES44AC #1776 which has a siren as one of the five horns.
I was also surprised to hear new crew cab announcements on the KEY #4 for the Dispatcher.
Here is a video of the engine and the five horns. It is a very nice engine.
Have a good evening.
Sincerely, John Rowlen
.
Here is a video of the Dispatcher Crew Talk on Key #4 of the 990 Remote for the Lionel 2033520 BNSF ES44AC #5815. The dialog includes different people.
Sincerely, John Rowlen
1st test run of my Chicago L to see where things need support. Also working to make everything level. Then I’ll make it look good.
It still needs some work. 😂😂😂
ChiTown Steve,
I like the thin support brackets for your 2nd level. Trying to decide on how to make my own.
Thanks. I’m shooting for the 1940’s version of the L versus what you see today downtown.
I used 3/4” x1/2 pine lattice from Lowes for the runners the track sits on. The legs are 1/2” square. Here’s a better pic of what I’ve done so far and what I’m shooting for.
The bottom pic shows the beginning of the subway being built. The project halted during WWII.
@IRON HORSE posted:ChiTown Steve,
I like the thin support brackets for your 2nd level. Trying to decide on how to make my own.
Ironhorse, there are lots of different methods for scratch building an El. from simply cutting your own wooden template to this - http://nycmodeltransit.org/ModelEl.htm
It really depends on how much time you want to devote to the project and your available tools. In the end, after painting and detailing, they all look great to me.
Chi Town Steve, Excellent work! Don't forget to make room for an elevated Union station. LOL!
Morning guys, I have to say what great work you all have been doing on your layouts! I am sorry that some of you are getting the short end of things and really hope everything pans out!
I really haven't done much lately, not even been on the computer. But the CEO let me go out to the train room so I decided to run my new to me MTH SD-80 and when I ran it on the upper track that leads to the future outside run I found out that there is not enough clearance for it to get threw the switch all the way along the road leading up to the mountain. I ended up removing all the buildings and autos from my city area so I could get access to the retaining wall that supports the road up the hill.
At which point I ripped it out cut it down and had to reinstall. Then I had to do the same around the curve by the houses. Guess I wont be buying anything larger then that engine as I am not doing that all again! LOL
I hear that you folks on the east side are spose to get some snow, I hope you all take care and stay safe. Heck sounds like a good reason to stay inside and work on your layouts! I will try to get some photos for you all later today!
Please be Safe out there!
Working on the Fourbyeight RR, slowly but surely. Going for the simple look, my prior layouts had much more scenery..... For some strange reason this one is taking me longer to complete. 
Painted the main street... Next up will be drilling some holes for lamp posts and buildings to run wiring.
Just finished clearing 6" of snow and ice. Still waiting for the town to finish plowing so I can clear the driveway apron one more time.
Time to get the Polar Express running under the tree!
Bob
mike g. Mike, I'm glad you got time in the train room. I'm sorry the SD80 didn't have enough clearance and you had to re-engineer the walls. So you won't be buying any BNSF SD100s when such a thing exists??
@trestleking posted:So Mark, the PSX-1AC SS C.B.’s protect all your engines w/o having to put a protective device on each one ?
Trestleking, I'm so sorry I missed seeing your post which even had my photograph until now. I guess I was too busy with a discussion about the same topic over on my Blackwater Canyon Line topic. You may want to take a look at the discussion on page 41 for more information. Your question did not come up, though. The answer is yes it protects all the engines on that output. In my case, one fixed output will feed all the mainline track and the other will feed the two passing sidings and stub sidings. I could have an engine on every siding or several engines on the mainline and when there is a short circuit, the PSX-1AC stops the power from passing through it to all the tracks on that output. My testing worked very nicely. The Z4000 overload doesn't even see the short circuit, it works that fast
Take a look on the topic I linked and look for the video I copied there that Gary (superwarp1) posted in 2017 on YouTube. He does a nice job describing he PSX-1AC, all the optional features he used, and runs a test to show how fast it works.
@Cogen1981 posted:Returned the CP SD40 this morning, had some hassle, but in the end, they gave me store credit. Picked up this Bessemer SD38
Cogen1981 Since the B&LE is right at the bottom of our hill I approve your choice of engine!!
@RSJB18 posted:Just finished clearing 6" of snow and ice. Still waiting for the town to finish plowing so I can clear the driveway apron one more time.
Time to get the Polar Express running under the tree!
Bob
Yes indeed you need the Polar Express running.
Got the train station mostly completed. Still need to put in windows and lighting. Now I am thinking about rearranging my buildings so it "fits" better in the town. Glued card stock to the plastic walls and colored in with pastel chalks to give the stone look. It will work fine for now. But the MTH bank buildings kit-bash have really caught my interest.
And finally got some signage done. Full Circle is a coffee shop started by my son in the Grand Rapids MI area. So I figure now he has 2 locations. The Dad's sign is a decal I bought off the web.
That station looks excellent, scouting dad. Did you purchase the sky light on the top or did you make it? If purchased, where?
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