What did you do on your layout today?

Here is the inaugural run on my new top level.

@OhB1 posted:

Here is the inaugural run on my new top level.

Looks great. Congrats!

Bob

Nice work on the inaugural run for that first level! Amazing!

In contrast to that, the Christmas tree has come down and most of the carpet layout magic has passed. When the grandkids fill the room….. it all comes alive. And now the Mighty Engines take refuge under the safety of the chairs and Yew Mountain. Twas fun.

I’ll live vicariously through your posts and photos for another year….. salute

RTC update: 

As can be seen here, the O-31 and AF tracks are next in line for TLC...

Also note the trackside speaker connectors.  These will be wired into the hardwiring going to the rails...

An adapted set of multimeter probes will go from a transformer to each individual track as needed (I plan to use an LW that's been knocking about the garage).

And yes, I went on a pawnshop DeWalt binge over the holidays.   DON'T JUDGE ME!!! 

Mitch

@M. Mitchell Marmel posted:

RTC update:

As can be seen here, the O-31 and AF tracks are next in line for TLC...

Also note the trackside speaker connectors.  These will be wired into the hardwiring going to the rails...

An adapted set of multimeter probes will go from a transformer to each individual track as needed (I plan to use an LW that's been knocking about the garage).

And yes, I went on a pawnshop DeWalt binge over the holidays.   DON'T JUDGE ME!!! 

Mitch

This is a judgement free zone Mitch.....

Yep…Judgment free...

Look sharp!  Inspector just arrived as the team lays track in the St Joseph yard.  He may frown on our track first, ballast later approach!

While chatting with @Miggy in email, I decided to take some happy snaps of The Mighty Katrinka (see also separate thread) on the WIP RTC, along with a movie of Shop Supervisor Norma Bates Kitteh being her normal helpful self...

Enjoy!

Mitch

Working on a switch. Still a ways to go but so far so good…

Nice track work, Dennis.

Tom

Today, I and my son Chris spent most of the afternoon in the workshop, me straightening the area and Chris weathering freight cars, specifically Lionel MPC era hoppers. The photos of Chris' work below are a testament to his weathering skills.

This photo shows a before and after of the gray, Lehigh Valley hopper. Chris' weathering turns something that has a very toy-like appearance into something that appears to be a more serious and detailed model.

The rest are close-ups of the individual cars that got Chris' superb treatment.

In that we have a home layout with tight O-31 curves, this size hoppers with our traditional size locomotives work quite well. These hoppers are all plastic and VERY light. Due to their weight, we can run a train of 20 or more hoppers and any engine in our fleet can pull them with ease. We will be making coal loads for each.

@Randy Harrison , Randy, what did you use for the weathering, chalk or paints?

Also, what did you use for the coal load, if you can share?

They came out very nice.

Tom

Scenery work today.  Working on my scratch built station platform (note the platform number), and a grassy area against a rock wall and behind the gantry crane area.   Will add more to this area eventually.   The yellow handrail is glued together skewers, and the wood platforms are grooved and painted foam made to look like wood.  

@PRR8976 posted:

@Randy Harrison , Randy, what did you use for the weathering, chalk or paints?

Also, what did you use for the coal load, if you can share?

They came out very nice.

Tom

@PRR8976

Tom:

Thanks for the interest in my post. My son Chris is the mastermind behind the weathering. He does everything that you see in the photos with rattle-can spray paints and a paper towel wipe. He has an amazing eye for color and texture. When I weather, I use pan pastels. My weathering is serviceable but nowhere near in Chris' league.

The coal load in the photo is one we purchased at a train show years ago from an older gentleman that made these for all sizes, makes and models of hoppers. He is no longer in business. Chris is going to make plastic inserts for the hoppers with mounds on his 3-D printer. We will then glue real, crushed coal to the printed bases, spray the coal with Dull-Cote to seal in the coal oil, and, when the Dull-Cote Dries, highlight the coal with Gloss-Cote.

Added two buildings to my overhead.  3d printing allows me to scale and fit as needed also.   My wife is the artist, she does the painting and weathering.   The risers raise them enough so you can see them better on the elevated platform.

Main Street complete, parking roadway re-paved (painted to match electric roadway) parking meters and fire hydrants installed and buildings power washed, lol

Took a batch of coal hoppers to the garage for an added layer of weathering. More to come...

Dave

@DrSteveDC posted:

Main Street complete, parking roadway re-paved (painted to match electric roadway) parking meters and fire hydrants installed and buildings power washed, lol

Didn't know you were modeling Great Britain!  ;D 

Mitch

https://ogrforum.ogaugerr.com/...7#183029866748145277

@M. Mitchell Marmel. Keen eye, lol.  Simply a visual choice.  The way the shops are set up in Main Street I wanted to see the car bonnet, not the boot (how’s that for GB slang). So I followed suit through the display.

Today I test ran some steamers owned by @will2926, a Strausburg 90 and a new VL Big Boy #4000, both Beautiful Lionel locomotives…. The Big Boy barely barely fits on my turntable. The Strausburg #90 is simply beautiful… We had fun testing the Big Boy on the wide curves, some times those centipede tenders are a problem. But, today we had fun…. Happy Railroading Everyone

After getting the top level fully working and organizing my power I decided it was time to run trains.

@OhB1 posted:

After getting the top level fully working and organizing my power I decided it was time to run trains.

Running nice and smoothly!!  🚂 🛤️ 👍🏻

Added a stop to an interchange track

Yesterday I received my new Lionel Maryland & Pennsylvania Doodlebug from one of our OGR Forum sponsors.  Since the Ma & Pa is one of the railroads I model, I had to have this piece after seeing Eric Segal's ( Eric's Trains ) review on the Lionel Doodlebugs. This is my first Lion Chief Plus purchase.  I was so excited when it arrived yesterday!!  ... Immediately I unpacked it, glanced thru the instruction manual,  and put it on my main line.  It's a great looking unit!!  All exterior parts are intact. The paint is great and the lettering is crisp

Before powering the unit up, I put about 15 drops of smoke fluid in the exhaust stack.  I then powered it up, which it did immediately and sounded great!!   It smokes great ( like an MTH ).  The unit immediately responded to my TMCC remote ( checking coupler performance, crew talk sequences, horn and bell ) It then moved forward about 8 feet and then stopped with cab interior light flashing on/off.  I shut down the unit and continued to read directions which said when the cab light flashes on/off  to push "0" on the TMCC key pad ... 0 will reset the electronics.  I did this and the electronics reset, enabling the unit to move forward.  The problem is that this same thing with the cab interior light flashing, unit would not move until pressing  0 reset kept happening continuously until now the unit will not move at all ... even after several attempts of activating the "0" reset button.  So frustrating!!!  Tomorrow I will send it back to the retailer and ask them to send me another.  Hopefully the next one will run perfectly right out of the box.   What started as a great day on my railroad turned out to be a bummer in the end  ... oh well it could be worse ... at least the Doodlebug didn't catch on fire!  LOL!! This video was shot after I pressed the 0 on my TMCC Cab 1 remote which reset the electronics.  It demonstrates the engine sound and crew talk.    I didn't shoot a video of the interior cab light flashing/on off.  

@trumptrain posted:

Yesterday I received my new Lionel Maryland & Pennsylvania Doodlebug from one of our OGR Forum sponsors.  Since the Ma & Pa is one of the railroads I model, I had to have this piece after seeing Eric Segal's ( Eric's Trains ) review on the Lionel Doodlebugs. This is my first Lion Chief Plus purchase.  I was so excited when it arrived yesterday!!  ... Immediately I unpacked it, glanced thru the instruction manual,  and put it on my main line.  It's a great looking unit!!  All exterior parts are intact. The paint is great and the lettering is crisp

Before powering the unit up, I put about 15 drops of smoke fluid in the exhaust stack.  I then powered it up, which it did immediately and sounded great!!   It smokes great ( like an MTH ).  The unit immediately responded to my TMCC remote ( checking coupler performance, crew talk sequences, horn and bell ) It then moved forward about 8 feet and then stopped with cab interior light flashing on/off.  I shut down the unit and continued to read directions which said when the cab light flashes on/off  to push "0" on the TMCC key pad ... 0 will reset the electronics.  I did this and the electronics reset, enabling the unit to move forward.  The problem is that this same thing with the cab interior light flashing, unit would not move until pressing  0 reset kept happening continuously until now the unit will not move at all ... even after several attempts of activating the "0" reset button.  So frustrating!!!  Tomorrow I will send it back to the retailer and ask them to send me another.  Hopefully the next one will run perfectly right out of the box.   What started as a great day on my railroad turned out to be a bummer in the end  ... oh well it could be worse ... at least the Doodlebug didn't catch on fire!  LOL!! This video was shot after I pressed the 0 on my TMCC Cab 1 remote which reset the electronics.  It demonstrates the engine sound and crew talk.    I didn't shoot a video of the interior cab light flashing/on off.  

Patrick, BUMMER!!! Great looking model though, and looks great on your layout! Better luck in the replacement, got my fingers crossed.

@WesternPacific2217 posted:

Patrick, BUMMER!!! Great looking model though, and looks great on your layout! Better luck in the replacement, got my fingers crossed.

Thanks Scott!  I've got my fingers crossed as well

I was finally able to hire some people to operate our newest engine, the LionChief dash-8.  I know this thing is not scale but the lack of crew and the unsightly view of the motor through the window required immediate attention. Fortunately, Lionel parts sells a cab interior with 2 figures for $12 that gave me a nice jump on the project.  Unfortunately, for this engine the  motor was seated right in the cab, so I needed to cut up the Lionel cab interior a little bit and build a raised rear to cover the engine.  I also painted it and added some addition interior details based on a few photos of diesel cab interiors that I was able to find on the internet.  These aren't the greatest pics but i’m really pleased with the end result. A rigorous  test run confirmed excellent clearance for the motor and no hang ups.  On to the next project.

Before:

The new Lionel cab as purchased (figures removed)-

Cab after modification to hide motor and fit in the LionChief engine -

Engineers running my engine (sorry for the bad side view shots) -

Had to chuckle.  The unpainted seats looked like toilets to me.

@Papa Dave posted:

Had to chuckle.  The unpainted seats looked like toilets to me.

Double duty! 😀

George

@leapinlarry- I need to find friends like yours Larry.....guess it's easy with a great layout.....
@OhB1- the trains are running great! Keep it up.
@randr- Anything to keep the cars from falling off the table works!
@Strap Hanger- Another cab successfully populated.
@trumptrain- That's a real bummer Pat. Hopefully a quick turnaround will have a working model in your hands. These Doodlebugs, tempted I am.......must....resist.....the.....force.........
@luvindemtrains- that's a lot of hoppers, keep us posted on the progress.

Bob

Great work everyone! Nothing new from me! I have been a little busy doing nothing as ordered! LOL But I still have you guys to fall back on! Thanks for sharing all the great work!
I wish you all well and hope you all are having fun with your layouts and trains!

@trumptrain posted:

Yesterday I received my new Lionel Maryland & Pennsylvania Doodlebug from one of our OGR Forum sponsors.  Since the Ma & Pa is one of the railroads I model, I had to have this piece after seeing Eric Segal's ( Eric's Trains ) review on the Lionel Doodlebugs. This is my first Lion Chief Plus purchase.  I was so excited when it arrived yesterday!!  ... Immediately I unpacked it, glanced thru the instruction manual,  and put it on my main line.  It's a great looking unit!!  All exterior parts are intact. The paint is great and the lettering is crisp

Before powering the unit up, I put about 15 drops of smoke fluid in the exhaust stack.  I then powered it up, which it did immediately and sounded great!!   It smokes great ( like an MTH ).  The unit immediately responded to my TMCC remote ( checking coupler performance, crew talk sequences, horn and bell ) It then moved forward about 8 feet and then stopped with cab interior light flashing on/off.  I shut down the unit and continued to read directions which said when the cab light flashes on/off  to push "0" on the TMCC key pad ... 0 will reset the electronics.  I did this and the electronics reset, enabling the unit to move forward.  The problem is that this same thing with the cab interior light flashing, unit would not move until pressing  0 reset kept happening continuously until now the unit will not move at all ... even after several attempts of activating the "0" reset button.  So frustrating!!!  Tomorrow I will send it back to the retailer and ask them to send me another.  Hopefully the next one will run perfectly right out of the box.   What started as a great day on my railroad turned out to be a bummer in the end  ... oh well it could be worse ... at least the Doodlebug didn't catch on fire!  LOL!!

Sorry to hear about your bad action Pat with the doodlebug, good luck with the next one. I’ll be watching for your update on the replacement. So far, so good with mine, maybe I just got lucky on this one.

Gene

I added 4 lamps to interior of the Atlas roundhouse and two exterior door lamps.  I have not touched the roundhouse since assembly 2016.

I enjoyed the results.

@Seth Thomas posted:

I added 4 lamps to interior of the Atlas roundhouse and two exterior door lamps.  I have not touched the roundhouse since assembly 2016.

I enjoyed the results.

Seth That looks great! I hope I have room for a TT and round house on my next layout after our move!

Had to make more room!   Use 1 x 8 (.75x7") boards to make more storage.  Double wide, 2 shelves. in small hallway above the doors.  Nets about 40 linear feat of storage.   

No more extra cars on the layout.   I think I have enough storage for now.

I use track with the center rail removed to hold items on the shelf.  Help maintains pickup springs.

I've been working on a small engine service area with sanding station, water spout, and fueling station. This has been the second rebuild of the Korber sanding station from getting damaged in moves and it looks better this go round. I got the old Marx fueling station all hooked up today and it works like a champ. That yard worker leaps out to the track with the hose quick-time! A little more scenery and ballast and that part will be done.

Thanks-Scott

I made this flat car load. The pipes are the cardboard tubes that are used in dog poopy bags rolls.
Each roll holds 20 bags so hat tip to my pup for her dedication to the hobby.

B&O fan, Scott.

that old Marx fueling station looks like it had a major facelift and repainting!
super nice! I recall the original grey station with the Blue men, and later a  K-line version. Did you redecorate  yours?
I find those fuel guys to be the fastest in the nation like their cousins at the signal tower same vintage Marx and reissued by K line! Blink and you’ll miss it fast!

Lionel parts sells a cab interior with 2 figures for $12 that gave me a nice jump on the project.

@ Strap Hanger Nicely done!! Will you provide us with the Lionel part number??

Miggy You're layout on the floor brings back so many memories  for me as for sure so many others. The layouts we have today stemmed  from the floor. My greatest  memories are from 1957 and the trains on the floor around Christmas  time.  I ran them through  Lincoln  Logs buildings and what dreams they brought.  Thanks for posting those pics. Farmerjohn.

@Leroof , yes, I did give the fueling station a paint job. I thought it was just too shiny out of the box. The solenoid action is strong enough to move the station so I had to anchor it to keep it stationary. I think it's a neat piece, I like the light inside the shack coming on when you actuate it.

Thanks - Scott

@Woodson posted:

Lionel parts sells a cab interior with 2 figures for $12 that gave me a nice jump on the project.

@ Strap Hanger Nicely done!! Will you provide us with the Lionel part number??

Thanks! It was a fun project. Here is the link - https://www.lionelsupport.com/...INTERIOR-W-2-CREWMEN

However, you might want to search for “interior cab”  to see all the other cab interiors that they have available, which may be a better fit for your engine.  Here is a link to that search result - https://www.lionelsupport.com/...words=Interior%20cab

Good luck and if you convert an interior, don’t forget to post some pics as well.

Working on some switches

Thanks! It was a fun project. Here is the link - https://www.lionelsupport.com/...INTERIOR-W-2-CREWMEN

However, you might want to search for “interior cab”  to see all the other cab interiors that they have available, which may be a better fit for your engine.  Here is a link to that search result - https://www.lionelsupport.com/...words=Interior%20cab

Good luck and if you convert an interior, don’t forget to post some pics as well.

Thanks for the information!! Another project...................

The CARE package from @Miggy arrived yesterday, and one of the first orders of business for Professor Lionel von Fronkensteen in the RTC shops was to get two Hudson (etc) motors in action: 

One of these motors will be finding its way into the S-666 project...

Mitch

@M. Mitchell Marmel posted:

The CARE package from @Miggy arrived yesterday, and one of the first orders of business for Professor Lionel von Fronkensteen in the RTC shops was to get two Hudson (etc) motors in action:

One of these motors will be finding its way into the S-666 project...

Mitch

Mitch, general assumption you will change the fabric wiring!! LoL That's some old stuff, but they sure run good! Have fun with that project!

@WesternPacific2217 posted:

Mitch, general assumption you will change the fabric wiring!! LoL That's some old stuff, but they sure run good! Have fun with that project!

Yeah, the fabric wiring will go, once I send the E-units out for rebuilding and new contacts/wiring harnesses added (I don't have the specialty tools for rehabbing E-units properly)...   

Mitch

@Strap Hanger posted:

Did a bunch of cleaning and long put off maintenance on some of my engines, like finally regreasing some worm gears. However, one of the things on my bucket list is  adding pickup rollers and installing some wiring and a smoke unit to this MPC dummy Lionel RS4 engine that I picked up back in the early 1980s. Any recommendations on pickup rollers for it?  I went to the Lionel parts site and short of changing the trucks, which I don’t want to do, I couldn’t determine which pickup rollers would be best for this dummy unit.

@StrapHanger Thanks for the photos. My Grandfather worked in the Duluth - Proctor Minnesota Roundhouse. They ran ore from the iron range to the ships in the Duluth harbor.Your engine from the Messabe/Iron Range caught my eye and made me smile. Thanks for the Memories! Were you originally from Minnesota? Just wondering what caught your eye for the Beautiful Engine from Northern Minnesota.

I am still looking for a caboose in Lionel O size... May have to do a rattle-can repaint of a scrap caboose.. Smile

Thanks again

@Miggy posted:

@StrapHanger Thanks for the photos. My Grandfather worked in the Duluth - Proctor Minnesota Roundhouse. They ran ore from the iron range to the ships in the Duluth harbor.Your engine from the Messabe/Iron Range caught my eye and made me smile. Thanks for the Memories! Were you originally from Minnesota? Just wondering what caught your eye for the Beautiful Engine from Northern Minnesota.

I am still looking for a caboose in Lionel O size... May have to do a rattle-can repaint of a scrap caboose.. Smile

Thanks again

Miggy, not from Minnesota, but on a school trip to the 42nd street Public library in my youth, I read a book on the Iron Range and fell in love with the powerful engines of the Duluth Missabe  line  The first engine I bought on my own (with what seemed like a years worth of after school earnings),  was a DM&IR Lionel diesel in those reddish colors.  I picked up a beautiful Lionel DM&IR caboose as well back in the 70s, which I still have. In fact, when I got back into the hobby and discovered MTH in the early 90s, my first engine was a premier DM&IR GP38-2.  I’ve since limited my purchases to LIRR and MTA but still love and maintain my old DM&IR fleet.  I’d really like to add a smoke unit and lighting to that RS4 dummy.  It’s a real  beauty.

Not on the layout but some testing for the next project. I want to finish the scenery on my upper level in the back. Kind of the last major piece to do and it's been on my list for a long time. Here's the target area.

Before I start, I need to fix the track and turnouts. I noticed that the strait sections of track have started to bow from the weight of the trains passing. So since I need to replace them, I want to change out the 3 Lionel 5122 turnouts for K-line tubular turnouts. I have two right-hand, just need to find a left (a WTB post will be forth- coming). I hate the 5122's...the solenoid buzz drives me nuts. The K-line's are quiet. Wish I knew about K-line before I built the layout.

So getting to the point- I assembled the two turnouts I have with some track on my temporary workbench to see how various engines run through them. I tried a couple shorties, a Plymouth, BEEP and 0-6-0t steamer, and a SW1200 diesel. Everything went fine so at least I have a solid plan for the track work.

As a side note- the SW1200 is a Lionel Legacy w/Bluetooth. Nice option to grab my phone and use the LC app on track without a base connected. I still prefer my Cab-1L but the BT connectivity is convenient.

Bob

I think this was an old NYC shell that had been repainted to a red/yellow something that was never finished. (I should've taken a 'before' picture) After a several days of soaking & gently scrubbing down the old finish this week it looked ready to repaint again. I decided to use some old N & W decals I found in the boxes of stored trains to try a repaint to a short-lived N & W paint scheme. I think the prototype was actually an F7, but I'm pleased with this so far. I noticed that the masking line on the nose got a bit loose a little too late - maybe I can touch it up before a clear coat

Bob, good luck on that project! Looks like a lot of f stuff that needs to be moved. I can't wait to see the finished product!

Woodsy, nice job on the paint job! I think it's going to be great when done!

Well as most of you know there won't be anything from me for a while, but I am here checking out what you guys are doing!

I hope you are all well and finding time to have fun with your layouts and trains!

@mike g. posted:

Bob, good luck on that project! Looks like a lot of stuff that needs to be moved. I can't wait to see the finished product!

I hope you are all well and finding time to have fun with your layouts and trains!

Hence the reason for procrastination........ Not as bad as the corner I did last year but almost......

Thanks

@RSJB18 posted:

Hence the reason for procrastination........ Not as bad as the corner I did last year but almost......

Thanks

Well that is a good way to look at it! It could have been as bad as last years corner! But you get a reprieve!

So after an inexcusably long hiatus, I finally got motivated to go down to the train room.   Installed some hand made weathered fencing I bought at a local train show couple of months ago and then finally got around to stitching two Pennsy Block wall sections together so they fit the opening at the tunnel entrance.   Going back to work on my 2 NYC Woodside Caboose(s), scratch building project that I started back in the spring....  Not too many more tasks on the to do list for these cabooses...   Hope everyone is well.   

Found two photos of these cabooses shortly after this kit bash started....    Initially I was thinking I was going to swap the cupolas, then decided against doing that......   

@chris a posted:

So after an inexcusably long hiatus, I finally got motivated to go down to the train room.   Installed some hand made weathered fencing I bought at a local train show couple of months ago and then finally got around to stitching two Pennsy Block wall sections together so they fit the opening at the tunnel entrance.   Going back to work on my 2 NYC Woodside Caboose(s), scratch building project that I started back in the spring....  Not too many more tasks on the to do list for these cabooses...   Hope everyone is well.   

Chris, I was wondering what happened to you, welcome back! I always enjoy your posts with your layout updates. Fence looks great, good luck on the caboose’s.

Found the K-line left hand switch I need for the upper level. Just need Mr. Brown to deliver....

@chris a Welcome back Chris. Cabooses look good.

Ran some trains tonight too.

Bob

@RSJB18 posted:

Found the K-line left hand switch I need for the upper level. Just need Mr. Brown to deliver....

@chris a Welcome back Chris. Cabooses look good.

Ran some trains tonight too.

Bob

Nice score, Bob. Kline makes excellent tubular switches. I have 3 shadow rail ones (the ones with the built in plastic ties) on my elevated line that replaced lionel's version about 15 years ago and they are definitely superior and have operated flawlessly.  Crisp, forceful  switch action.  Its a shame that these aren't still manufactured and we now have to scour the secondary market for dwindling supply.

Chris, I'm glad to see you back.  Funny thing, last evening I went back and watched some of your videos of the batting over spray foam scenery base since I am preparing to give it a try.  The weathering and cabooses look great!!

Thanks so much to all of you for the heartfelt "welcome back" messages and Likes....  Mark,  Not sure if you found it or not, but I was replying to some YouTube Video messages the other day and found a YouTube video that I did to kind of close the book and review the large Coal Mine Scene Mountain that was done with the Batting, Spray Foam, Latex Paint etc... It's not obvious from the title of the video that it's kind of the "finished product" video on the result.   So here's a link in case you didn't see it.  If nothing else it provides some decent views of what's possible on a rather large, steep slope.    As it is my video, hopefully copying in a link won't send up alarms with the mediators.   I also added some photos taken back in March 2018 showing still shots of the mountain/hillside.   I would even want to think about how much plaster, frame work, cardboard webbing etc it would have taken to build this the traditional way, plus I had fallen on ice and completely tore 3 out of 4 roto cuffs in my right shoulder so building anything I couldn't pick up and move wasn't an option.  this entire scene was built on a work bench table, then moved into place.   

Chris

https://www.youtube.com/watch?...gdSkZSXBQ&t=100s

@Strap Hanger posted:

Nice score, Bob. Kline makes excellent tubular switches. I have 3 shadow rail ones (the ones with the built in plastic ties) on my elevated line that replaced lionel's version about 15 years ago and they are definitely superior and have operated flawlessly.  Crisp, forceful  switch action.  Its a shame that these aren't still manufactured and we now have to scour the secondary market for dwindling supply.

Yes they did. I wish I knew about K-line switches when I built my layout. I hate the Lionel 5121, 5122's with a passion.
The solenoid buzz absolutely kills me. I have too many on the layout to change out without tearing half the layout apart so I'll just grin and bear it. Mine are on track power so when I'm running conventional locos, it's not too bad but now that I'm running more command locos- they really sing at 16-18v.
Another regret is that I didn't rewire them for accessory power......at least then I could manage the noise a little better.

Bob

@Mark Boyce  Mark when you are ready for the batting, take a cheapie 2 or 3 inch paint brush, pour on the glue (buy a gallon) and spread it around on every contact surface. This coat should be relatively thick - not thin like a paint coat. Take the precut batting and apply it to the glue pressing down (light to medium pressure) to get a good bond. You can use a different stiff brush to push it into "cracks". It will take a day to dry. Then trim the edges as needed. I usually use craft scissors. Prepping the substrate is the real work as you have to decide what kind of surface structure you want.

Precut batting - take the batting and lay it on the surface press it into the substrate, and mark the outside perimeter, then cut to shape. Sometimes you will need to cut the batting to eliminate bunching or thick folds in areas.  Reset it in place and make any final needed cuts. I usually leave an inch or so overlap. Its easier to trim if you have something to hold on to while cutting. If this is an in-place application, just cut to size.  I have not had great success at hiding seams so I try to minimize them or apply the batting joints into inside corners to make them "invisible".  Otherwise they have to be covered with landscaping.   

Regarding the glue - you want to apply the glue as fast as possible to prevent skinning. I can do 6 to 8 square feet pretty quickly. Picking up the glue onto the brush is too slow for me, so I pour a puddle and spread, etcetera - etcetera - etcetera  (think of the voice of Yul Brenner - King and I).

Regarding painting - this is a load the brush and dab, pushing the paint into the batting. I always have to go back the next day and reapply to areas that did not take the paint well.

BTW if you have been that busy outside - you must have had a great surgeon. Glad to hear it is going well long term.  Jeff

Chris sorry I am a day late, but welcome back! I really like the new fencing and I thing the wall turned out looking great! I was wondering about the caboose switch over then I see it in your second post about it. I think i like the original look, the switch looked a little off! The hill sides you had done in the past look outstanding and I can't see why the moderators would flag this because a lot of people put links to that they do here!

Bob, I for your sake I hope the big Brown truck shows up soon, who knows what trouble you could get into with idle hands! LOL

Jeff your step by step is a great course! I know I tried it on my first layout and really liked it!

Well guys I hope you all are doing well and are finding time to have fun with your layouts and trains!

@chris a Chris, thank you for the link to the other video.  I recall seeing it when you first posted it, and even saw I had 'liked' it.  The scene looks great!

@ScoutingDad Jeff, thank you for the detailed description.  The area I will be doing first is basically flat level.  Thank you, I will put one sheet of batting with no seams, and cut it oversize to start.  I can always be tempted to use miscellaneous smaller pieces of whatever material; as you well know.   

I remembered the scene from the 'King and I' before I even watched the clip.    Watching Chris' videos and reading your description, I do need to get a can of brown paint for coloring the batting once set.

I don't want to belabor it here, but yes, my surgeon did a great job on both back surgeries.  I just passed the 6-month point and have no restrictions.  I take things carefully and am getting along well.  Thank you!

Started on the scrap yard module . Put some chain link fence together and built a set of truck scales for the yard

About to take the 42" x 62" Northern Forests Christmas table down but wanted first to take a picture of two "reclaimed" cars: the Rutland car had badly damaged roof paint and rubbing of the lettering on the yellow band, so both were corrected with the help of K4 decals (S for the roadname and HO (!) for the herald. The Maine Central car is a repaint of a 6464-75 Rock Island car with totally faded out lettering. The K4 decals are O scale. The buidings are Weaver brass. A nice, simple winter scene . . .

We are getting back into working on the layout.. we did some track work and added a new Marx tinplate whistle station. Chief engineer loves it.

Whose roadbed are you using. Thank you.

@Aldovar posted:

We are getting back into working on the layout.. we did some track work and added a new Marx tinplate whistle station. Chief engineer loves it.

All ways like seeing the town name "Girard" was a small town near hometown of Youngstown, Ohio.

Ron

@PRRronbh posted:

All ways like seeing the town name "Girard" was a small near hometown of Youngstown, Ohio.

Ron

I grew up in Ashtabula so I always saw the sign on 90 or 20 for it going to Erie and back. 

@jim sutter posted:

Whose roadbed are you using. Thank you.

Jim, I am not sure. I bought a giant box of cork roadbed at a show once. It looks like it could be used for ho as it takes 2 and is only beveled on one side.

Nothing on the box to indicate who made it.

The S-666 project is underway! 

A lot of grindng and mods lie ahead, but it looks like the basic design is feasible... 

Thanks to @Miggy and Bill Ossman for the parts needed! 

Mitch

@jim sutter posted:

Whose roadbed are you using. Thank you.

It could be MidWest cork…typically comes in a white box with blue ink.

The pieces, if not separated, have a bevel cut in the center.  You split the piece into two and position the bevel to the outside. Allows for very quick installation even with curves and switches…

@Aldovar posted:

I grew up in Ashtabula so I always saw the sign on 90 or 20 for it going to Erie and back. 

My wife lived in Ashtabula back in the 80's on Hiram Ave. Small world!

@aubv posted:

It could be MidWest cork…typically comes in a white box with blue ink.

The pieces, if not separated, have a bevel cut in the center.  You split the piece into two and position the bevel to the outside. Allows for very quick installation even with curves and switches…

@jim sutter

Here is a picture of the roadbed. Holding it down with 4D nails through the ties

So made a bunch of progress on the caboose last 2 days, wish I could say I was done, but it's a process, not an event.

Down to interior lighting, installing the windows, introducing the crew and then I can button it up.   This was originally a K Line PRR woodside caboose from circa 2000 ?  Made some brake wheel stands, anchored the brass railings I fabricated, 1st coat of weathering on the trucks and under chassis with grimy black, painted the interior, glued down the wood planking on the end platforms and the covered the metal grate steps with wood planks then painted and weathered both platforms and steps. 

@M. Mitchell Marmel posted:

The S-666 project is underway!

A lot of grindng and mods lie ahead, but it looks like the basic design is feasible... 

Thanks to @Miggy and Bill Ossman for the parts needed! 

Mitch

Simply AMAZING Sir Mitch, Master of Scrounge, Keeper of Madam Kitteh, Duke of GI-RAFFE, Helper of Many!

You got mad Skilz! Tip of the cap to you my friend. Looking forward to updates.

After tweaking my lower turnaround loop, I ran a test train on it.  Now to put a coat of NO OX ID on the track so I’ll be able to build the upper level over it with some confidence.

Rich in snowy WV

@trestleking posted:

After tweaking my lower turnaround loop, I ran a test train on it.  Now to put a coat of NO OX ID on the track so I’ll be able to build the upper level over it with some confidence.

Rich in snowy WV

Suspenseful!  Will it derail and fall thru the open grid benchwork? Will it break loose and run off the end of the track? All's well tho. Nice job!

Rich, @trestleking,  I would measure the clearance between the curve and the Brick Wall.   If you ever decide to run a larger Articulated Steam Engine on that loop, you may not have enough room for the front overhang on the curves...   That would be a bummer once you cover the whole return loop.   It looks pretty darn close on the video, but tough to determine "how close it is" from the video.   

I had 096 curver entering an Atlas O Double track Truss Bridge thought everything was fine till I ran an B&O EM-1 through there, what a shock !!!     Chris a

@chris a posted:

Rich, @trestleking,  I would measure the clearance between the curve and the Brick Wall.   If you ever decide to run a larger Articulated Steam Engine on that loop, you may not have enough room for the front overhang on the curves...   That would be a bummer once you cover the whole return loop.   It looks pretty darn close on the video, but tough to determine "how close it is" from the video.   

I had 096 curver entering an Atlas O Double track Truss Bridge thought everything was fine till I ran an B&O EM-1 through there, what a shock !!!     Chris a

Chris, good eye.  My lone steam engine clears ok as well as my largest diesel - it’s just an 054 loop.  My 70’ passenger cars overhang to the inside but they clear everything, so far.
Onward !

@Aldovar posted:

We are getting back into working on the layout.. we did some track work and added a new Marx tinplate whistle station. Chief engineer loves it.

track looks great

@Chris a, Chris, it’s great to see you back on the forum and your layout is looking fantastic. @Mike g., Mike, I’m sorry you’ve had to relocate but Missouri is a great state, and you will be in driving distance to many cool layouts. We look forward to seeing your future work and creative ideas. Now we are on page 1228, Wow, so many beautiful layouts, pictures, videos, creative workmanship and an education in the subject of model railroading. Happy Railroading Everyone

@leapinlarry- photos of your layout and train room never disappoint.... nuttin' but trains everywhere you look!

Your flag is a nice touch too.

Bob

I’m slow but now working on the crossing in my upper level loops. Slow going with all the cutting and fitting of the running and guide rails. The brass shim will be trimmed like I did on the switches.

@Dennis Holler posted:

I’m slow but now working on the crossing in my upper level loops. Slow going with all the cutting and fitting of the running and guide rails. The brass shim will be trimmed like I did on the switches.

Dennis, your track work is superb. To me that’s true model railroading. Love your posts.

Before & After pics attached

Step 1

I have a few post-war Madison  heavyweights that are in poor condition, they all have significant chipping and this weird spotty paint mold damage. I'm not sure what the **** it is but it will not clean off no matter what I've done, so I'm going to attempt a repaint. Tuscan red color or whatever it is is pretty doggone tenacious and doesn't want to come off easily. I've tried other paint thinners and strippers and such, knowing that the bakelite shell is pretty tough and resilient. In fact some of my cleaning has changed the vestibule shade very slightly. The thing that worked the best and fastest so far between three different LowesDepot paint strippers on their shelves was the citrus type.

@Dennis Holler - Dennis, very impressive track work. I'm afraid it may be taking away from the time you spend on your locomotives, though!

Tom

Played around with orientation and sign on my completed Clever Models paper whistle stop station kit. 8-)    Train ON!

Jim K

Adjusted a curve that was suddenly derailing everything in the most inaccessible part of the layout without throwing out my back.

Hi guys great work being done by all and some really amazing photos!

@trestleking Rich I am glad you check the clearance, you probably know this already, but you might want to check going backwards also. Don't as me how I know, cause I didn't thing about it! LOL You would think if its fine going one direction it would be no problem in the other!

@leapinlarry Larry is sure is nice to see more photos of your wonderful layout! It always brings a smile to my face!

@Dennis Holler Dennis your skills are just amazing! I would never try it but love to see what your doing!

I would have commented on more but I'm not quite ready to sit at the computer to long!

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend and find time to have fun with your layouts and trains!

Did a little more work on my scrap yard. My wife bought me a Lionel operating  scrapyard where their cutting apart a F 3. I put  some weathering on it and I think it helped. It's supposed  to be scrap. Got some lights installed but later will put leds in the gooseneck.  Trains are so much fun when others enjoy them also.

Replaced incandescent bulbs on 4 Madison cars with LED bulbs.

Then ran a 13 car train of Madison cars with a 784 Hudson and a GG1.  The Hudson with 13 cars drew 6.5 amps before replacing bulbs and 5 amps after.

@Dennis Holler posted:

I’m slow but now working on the crossing in my upper level loops. Slow going with all the cutting and fitting of the running and guide rails. The brass shim will be trimmed like I did on the switches.

Some incredible work Dennis. I have to ask what the brass strips are for? At the moment, you've got a dead short across both rails.....do the strips get cut away after the rails are all secured?
I see how it makes sense for the straight through rail, but the diverging rails are still shorted.

Bob

@RSJB18 posted:

Some incredible work Dennis. I have to ask what the brass strips are for? At the moment, you've got a dead short across both rails.....do the strips get cut away after the rails are all secured?
I see how it makes sense for the straight through rail, but the diverging rails are still shorted.

Bob

Bob,.

It'll be outside third rail, but I could use a dremel and cutoff wheel to slice them for two rail use.  Same for the switches.  Iwould do like other two railers do and just cut the rails around the frogs and ower them through the switch machines

@M. Mitchell Marmel posted:

RTC update:

As can be seen here, the O-31 and AF tracks are next in line for TLC...

Also note the trackside speaker connectors.  These will be wired into the hardwiring going to the rails...

An adapted set of multimeter probes will go from a transformer to each individual track as needed (I plan to use an LW that's been knocking about the garage).

And yes, I went on a pawnshop DeWalt binge over the holidays.   DON'T JUDGE ME!!! 

Mitch

Question, other than the power to track connectors “Clip ons” , for accessories, what’s a clean workaround that you’ve found useful ? I’ve considered running a power line adjacent to the accessories and tap off that.

I find your speaker wiring blocks a neat way to move power to your test tracks !!

ingenuity… now, I think we are looking for multiple test consists running at the same time ….. just saying….. We think you have a history that just might support this experiment 😎

salute

miglet

@Dennis Holler posted:

Bob,.

It'll be outside third rail, but I could use a dremel and cutoff wheel to slice them for two rail use.  Same for the switches.  Iwould do like other two railers do and just cut the rails around the frogs and ower them through the switch machines

Hadn't thought of that.

Thanks Dennis.

Last night, my son, Chris, took some photos of his GREAT weathering jobs on hopper cars in the Great Northeastern Railway's Mt. Carroll Yard.

@Miggy posted:

Question, other than the power to track connectors “Clip ons” , for accessories, what’s a clean workaround that you’ve found useful ? I’ve considered running a power line adjacent to the accessories and tap off that.

At the museum, I use wires from one of the ZW handles under the layout and clip on taps to run the accessories.

I find your speaker wiring blocks a neat way to move power to your test tracks !!

Thanks!

ingenuity… now, I think we are looking for multiple test consists running at the same time ….. just saying….. We think you have a history that just might support this experiment 😎

Mmmmmm...could be~!

Mitch

@Randy Harrison posted:

Last night, my son, Chris, took some photos of his GREAT weathering jobs on hopper cars in the Great Northeastern Railway's Mt. Carroll Yard.

Definitely  GREAT weathering look Chris has achieved Randy.

( reminds me of the rail cars I walked past eons   ago on my morning trip to school )

A little more progress on a 4-track yard I'm adding.

Going up!! Finally got all the bugs worked out on the lower mainline and am now adding my other two mains that I laid out almost 2 years ago and dismantled last year to work on the lower main. I built my power station, my control panel and ran my bus wires during that down time.  After all the setting up and light carpentry, I’ll  drop my tap lines from mains 2&3 and run my switch legs to the buses and control panel.

Installed a Colber wigwag signal.

@romiller49 posted:

track looks great

Thanks Ron! Those are the 3r ties on the inside with o34 curves and roadbed

My first attempt at water slide decals on an unlettered caboose. I didn’t want to spray a gloss coat prior to applying the decals so now you can see the decal outline and shine. I used Micro sol and set which worked perfectly after watching a few YouTube videos. Now I have a B&O caboose to go with my 2-8-0 consolidation steamer. The only B&O decals I could find after an online search was a boxcar set, so the road number isn’t prototypical. I’m pleasantly pleased with the finished product but I doubt I’ll ever do another.

Gene

I picked up some items to add TMCC to my layout. I mostly run conventional so I went ahead and got the control box for running them through the Cab remote. It was shockingly easy to get it all hooked up after watching a YouTube video.

@cbq9911a posted:

Installed a Colber wigwag signal.

wanna post a little video clip?

Finally got the windows installed, re-did the wiring so the lights are on, and the crew approved of the new accomodations !  LOL....   

Got a small amount of light leaking up at the cupola, will take care of that and screw the cab to the frame....   Included one photo here of the original K Line caboose I picked on the bay, for short money.   I had already removed the incorrect K Line sprung trucks at the time of the original photo, but still a decent before and after comparison.

Going to head down and run some trains which I haven't done in a long time.

Nice work everyone.   

@Genemed, Gene, wow, that’s a beautiful caboose, it will look great behind your cool B&O 2-8-0 Consolidation Steamer, I really like mine. I’m pulling some B&O Heavyweight cars behind mine. @RSJB18, Bob, thanks for the kind words, you make our forums so much fun. Happy Railroading Everyone ( Here are some structure pictures for your review, sort of behind the scenes )

Wow Larry,  I assume this is the bones of that amazing layout you have now !!!!!  Very neat photos thanks for sharing. 

I had a great time running the trains tonight, dimmed the lights a little, looked like sunset.  Decided to park the 3 steamers, well actually 4 with the double headed ATSF Northerns, and shoot a few photos.  Just lovin my kitbashed NYC cabooses, look even better running at dusk, than standing still....

@Chris a, Chris, thank you for the kind words, I simply love looking at your layout, your car weathering, that beautiful caboose, your very creative. How do you like the K-Line Hudson renewed by the Harmonyards? I really like mine. Your layout is looking so realistic. I thought some of the folks might like seeing the grid system I used in building my railroad, it goes back 23 years ago.

Here are a few recent pictures from the layout.

I spent a lot of work wiring up the whisker tracks of the roundhouse & turntable.

Proceeded to run trains, lot's of Conrail this time.

The great wall of trains.

Time to sit back, run some trains, and read the new Lionel Catalog. I've got at least one item to pre-order

- Jason

Larry all those wires gave me a headache!  Scary as heck!  Chris, very realistic, nice.  Jason, always enjoy your input.   What do you plan to cover your paper mountains with?  Maybe plaster cloth?  Just curious.   All I have done lately, other than rethink my control system, is ground cover in this little triangle corner where you see the abandoned railroad ties.   Not sure what will eventually go there, but it's "prepped" for something.   And, scratch build this home made freight platform and passenger loading area.   Not the most realistic but not too too bad...

@leapinlarry   Thanks for the kind words about the NYC caboose and the scenery.   The work Harmonyards did on the K Line Hudson far exceeded my highest expectations.    I thank you for referring me to @harmonyards...   

The new drive train and the ERR control system is exceptional, and he added some wonderful realistic touches that just put it over the top.   I pull (7) Heavyweight Pullmans by GGD/3rd Rail with the NYC K Line Hudson, and I have a 1.5% grade that's almost 22 feet long on the 240 foot long main line.   It's a heavy train, all the cars are 20-21 inches, 3 brass, 2 aluminum, and 2 GGD Plastic.

One of the best investments I ever made ordering the "Leapin Larry Limited Options" Package for that Hudson.   

@Jeff B. Haertlein posted:

Is that a Milwaukee Road 4-6-4 from Weaver?

Sorry it took so long to respond I got backed up on email. It is a Milwaukee Road 4-6-4 from Weaver with full TMCC controls and smoke!  One of my favorite steamers.

@leapinlarry posted:

@Genemed, Gene, wow, that’s a beautiful caboose, it will look great behind your cool B&O 2-8-0 Consolidation Steamer, I really like mine. I’m pulling some B&O Heavyweight cars behind mine.

Thanks Larry.

Gene

@leapinlarry posted:

@Chris a, Chris, thank you for the kind words, I simply love looking at your layout, your car weathering, that beautiful caboose, your very creative. How do you like the K-Line Hudson renewed by the Harmonyards? I really like mine. Your layout is looking so realistic. I thought some of the folks might like seeing the grid system I used in building my railroad, it goes back 23 years ago.

Larry,

Your trainroom and layout always knock my socks off. I'll never tire of seeing your pics.

More, please, Sir!!

@jdstucks posted:

Here are a few recent pictures from the layout.

I spent a lot of work wiring up the whisker tracks of the roundhouse & turntable.

Proceeded to run trains, lot's of Conrail this time.

The great wall of trains.

Time to sit back, run some trains, and read the new Lionel Catalog. I've got at least one item to pre-order

- Jason

Jason,

A great layout already, and it is not even finished (as if layouts are ever truly finished!). Looking forward to more pics as you progress.

Thanks for sharing,

@chris a posted:

Wow Larry,  I assume this is the bones of that amazing layout you have now !!!!!  Very neat photos thanks for sharing.

I had a great time running the trains tonight, dimmed the lights a little, looked like sunset.  Decided to park the 3 steamers, well actually 4 with the double headed ATSF Northerns, and shoot a few photos.  Just lovin my kitbashed NYC cabooses, look even better running at dusk, than standing still....

Chris, So realistic!

Please continue to share, even though you guys are making me crazy with the pics of your outstanding layouts.

@leapinlarry posted:

@Genemed, Gene, wow, that’s a beautiful caboose, it will look great behind your cool B&O 2-8-0 Consolidation Steamer, I really like mine. I’m pulling some B&O Heavyweight cars behind mine. @RSJB18, Bob, thanks for the kind words, you make our forums so much fun. Happy Railroading Everyone ( Here are some structure pictures for your review, sort of behind the scenes )

Larry,

Thanks for the behind the scenes photos - a new perspective.

Colber wigwag signal in action.

Lionel newsstand in action.  This is the 1980's version with some custom features.

I hadn’t checked this thread for two pages.  Excellent work everyone!  I do want to comment on the photographs Leapin Larry posted of the benchwork and wiring from long ago!  Thank you for sharing those Larry.  I should have taken more photographs of my modeling before the days of digital photography.  However the cost of film and developing prompted me to be very frugal in that regard.

I created this billboard to celebrate my Grandson’s Rifle Team “North Pocono Rifle” win over East Stroudsburg - North. Craig shared the top shooter spot 99-6 with another young man.

Another well done tribute to those special people in your life.

Doug

While preparing to enjoy ice cream last night, the top of the whipt cream can gave me an idea for a quick layout project. I trimmed it down and made a cone of painted paper::

See Free and Unique Stuff to Use: (warrenvillerailroad.com) for more free/unique layout tips

Like so many of your other creations John- ingenious.

@Lionelski posted:

While preparing to enjoy ice cream last night, the top of the whipt cream can gave me an idea for a quick layout project. I trimmed it down and made a cone of painted paper::

See Free and Unique Stuff to Use: (warrenvillerailroad.com) for more free/unique layout tips

John,

My cone is a Dairy Queen Whistle

@Mark Boyce, Mark, thanks for the kind words and I’ll bet your laughing at my wiring, and when I look at the pictures I can see why. Although lt looks like a lot of colored spaghetti with masking tape with ID numbers. There are plans to clean this mess up. Also you can see 1/2 of my ASC’s, BPC’s that control 41 turnouts and 19 blocks. This allows me and friends to walk around the layout and turn in any block or train or switches from the Cab 1L, Cab 2 hand held remotes, or I-phones?… My plans this winter is to change up some blocks, add new switch machines to some of the 20 year old Atlas switches, also replace some older DZ1000 machines. When Captain Will Porath, @will2926 was here a few months ago, we set up blocks for going to different levels, up and down the helixes, and it makes a huge difference as some routes have 10 or more switches, using Cab 2, hit the route desired then Fire….. Today I just adjusted power to the different accessories. Happy Railroading Everyone