For this thread, I want to get your ideas on what could be the next great feature that hasn't been implemented yet on a locomotive or piece of rolling stock in O scale. For me, I'd really like to see rotating bearing caps become available for the many modern diesels that they are visible on.
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I'm thinking more interactivity between operator, engine, and train. Think a sensor in the locomotive connected to its coupler that can detect the pull on the coupler and appropriately set the throttle response, sounds, etc. A longer train is a heavier train and the locomotive should work harder! Track and report locomotive fuel consumption: perhaps there's a feature to enable so that the locomotive will stop when it depletes its fuel and must be refueled to continue? A mode that simulates wheel-slip or makes starting a train difficult?
@Slugger posted:I'm thinking more interactivity between operator, engine, and train. Think a sensor in the locomotive connected to its coupler that can detect the pull on the coupler and appropriately set the throttle response, sounds, etc. A longer train is a heavier train and the locomotive should work harder! Track and report locomotive fuel consumption: perhaps there's a feature to enable so that the locomotive will stop when it depletes its fuel and must be refueled to continue? A mode that simulates wheel-slip or makes starting a train difficult?
Those are all wonderful ideas, especially the mode to simulate wheelslip
How about aroma loads? Reefers that smell like fresh oranges, or gondolas of manure that smell like xxxx. John
Battery power
Do they ship manure in gons....like old Chinese "honey barges"? Modeling that would REALLY be "rivet counting". My interest is much more mundane...l like the current trend of short runs of less common roadnames, and hope to grab a few, and hope that trend continues.
@colorado hirailer posted:Do they ship manure in gons....like old Chinese "honey barges"?
JT's Megasteam has a scent named Barnyard, and the smell matches. I think that base is covered. 
Not original with me but won’t it be cool that when your passenger train stopped at your station a hologram appeared that showed passengers getting off the train and then different passengers getting on the train with an option to have the passengers dressed for different time periods and
@FJI posted:Not original with me but won’t it be cool that when your passenger train stopped at your station a hologram appeared that showed passengers getting off the train and then different passengers getting on the train with an option to have the passengers dressed for different time periods and
About twenty years ago either Lionel or MTH had a passenger platform(under roof) with passengers awaiting the train. When the train departed, all passengers must have boarded as none were on the platform. I have not seen one operate, only saw the catalog listing. Perhaps a Forum member has one. John
@colorado hirailer posted:Do they ship manure in gons....like old Chinese "honey barges"?
In gondolas from the stock yards and urban collection points to the nearest low area out of town. Today, the EPA would not allow it. John
There are too many gimmicks already. Battery power would be a true advancement.
MELGAR
@rattler21 posted:About twenty years ago either Lionel or MTH had a passenger platform(under roof) with passengers standing awaiting the train. When the train departed, all passengers must have boarded as none were on the platform. I have not seen one operate, only saw the catalog listing. Perhaps a Forum member has one. John
It's a RailKing platform, I have one stored in my boxes waiting for me to start putting stuff on the layout. 
Most changes would be at the margin. The only revolutionary thing I could see happening would be the option of a 2 rail conversion kit, but with the tall 3 rail flanges. Best of both worlds, ability to run on tight curves, but no third rail.
Yep John is correct again. I have one and it is Railking. Pretty cool to see people and wham thy are gone. Most of the time visitors do not see the change ad I have to point it out.
Lash up capability on LC+ locos, also add the option to operate LC+ locos on battery by simply toggling a switch on the loco.
Lower prices!
Hey I'll throw in one initiated by MTH that I feel Lionel should adopt for their whistle steam - actually have the smoke come out of the whistle. I really cannot believe Lionel did not do that from the beginning of whistle steam. Looks SUPER on MTH stuff!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Same with the pop off valves. Have actual smoke come out of them in coordination with the blow off sound! Easily implemented, I would think.
I liked cylinder smoke/steam, but I have not seen it offered lately. That effect was way cool!
@gunrunnerjohn posted:JT's Megasteam has a scent named Barnyard, and the smell matches. I think that base is covered.
Just like that farm field featuring festering fertilizer...
Ah, the 'Breadbasket's" bouquet on a summer's day!
Might want to check with the spouse, though, before adding to the layout's ambiance!
(Oh, wow! Hmmmm. Interesting...I just realized the blue and red colors of the manure spreading equipment above! Subliminal? Metaphorical?
)
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BTW...Another vote cast for BATTERY POWER!
Undecorated engines/rolling stock and a kit that makes making custom decals easy.
How about signals and switches controlled by Wi-Fi so that a dispatcher can actually control the flow and movement of mainline trains without all the "logic" wiring? Of course, to work well, that would need motive power that automatically (like a real engineer was inside) adjusts its actual movement/speed to respond to signals and switch settings.
Chuck
@CarGuyZM10 posted:Undecorated engines/rolling stock and a kit that makes making custom decals easy.
Mr Muffin has been doing some undecorated runs for this purpose. Glad to see this as well!
I like the sound cars lionel is releasing, more of those would be great. A new Lionel control system and/or overhaul of the app is overdue IMO. I really prefer my Ipad over the handheld but can’t get all the legacy features with the app.
I’d like to see the new MTH group continue releasing updates to the app. I’d even pay for the updates.
@donhradio posted:Hey I'll throw in one initiated by MTH that I feel Lionel should adopt for their whistle steam - actually have the smoke come out of the whistle. I really cannot believe Lionel did not do that from the beginning of whistle steam. Looks SUPER on MTH stuff!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Same with the pop off valves. Have actual smoke come out of them in coordination with the blow off sound! Easily implemented, I would think.
It's not hard to drill the hole, but it's a bit harder to keep it from getting clogged with smoke bubbles. Lionel has done several models that do indeed have the smoke come out of the whistle, I have the CC2 0-8-8-0 that does that, it was an early Vision Line Legacy model.
a shoveling fireman to go with the depleting coal load. a figure oscillating in the cab with the firebox door opening and closing. I also have pondered the station platform with passenger car built on the principal of the cattle/horse corral with instead passengers/subway commuters trooping in and out the car (FJI though the hologram likely a fraction of the effort to produce and get to work reliably)
Forget the steaming whistle, I'd like to see operator controlled cylinder cocks with sound. Now that would put on one heck of a show and be lots of fun to play with. Just imagine it. Who is with me on this?
@MELGAR posted:There are too many gimmicks already. Battery power would be a true advancement.
MELGAR
I agree. NH Joe
@PRR1950 posted:How about signals and switches controlled by Wi-Fi so that a dispatcher can actually control the flow and movement of mainline trains without all the "logic" wiring? Of course, to work well, that would need motive power that automatically (like a real engineer was inside) adjusts its actual movement/speed to respond to signals and switch settings.
Chuck
You could add a sensor to the loco and a bar code, optical or RFID tag to the base to reduce speed when it detects the tag. I recall there was an electronic system that would read a bar code on the bottom of the car and trigger certain passenger announcements.
Update - it was a system by Z Stuff. Z-stuff for Trains O-gauge or O-scale trains
I think the next big thing will be an improved throttle interface to improve the user experience. My opinion is we've kind of slid backwards from the ZW handles to thumbwheels to today's smart phone interface.
Dale
A engineer waiving his arm at spectators.
I'm with Nycfan, lower prices.
More compact electronics, it's frightening when you take the shell or boiler off an engine.
A lifetime guarantee would be nice.
for o scale 2 rails !!!
Bluetooth with a universal app.
I use battery powered tools, a battery powered lawn mower, and drive a battery powered car. I think the next big revolution, and it's already taking root, is battery power for our O gauge trains. With the current state of battery technology, and things like Bluetooth control, it's only a matter of time before all the features we enjoy in our Legacy, LionChief+ 2.0, and DCS locos can be integrated into a cohesive battery powered package. Imagine the pleasure of never having to worry about wiring challenges, the tedious task of track cleaning, and all the other related things that plague us today! That's what I'd call the next "great feature".
and with battery power we can go 2 rail
@Slugger posted:I'm thinking more interactivity between operator, engine, and train. Think a sensor in the locomotive connected to its coupler that can detect the pull on the coupler and appropriately set the throttle response, sounds, etc. A longer train is a heavier train and the locomotive should work harder!
Lionel has already done this in the Vision Line Niagara. Lionel called it "Force Coupler". They have not released this feature in other locomotives yet.
@marty track posted:and with battery power we can go 2 rail
I honestly don't want it. It would be great to run deadrail, especially for outdoor folks, but I just don't want to deal with batteries and chargers and trying to make boxcars and tenders that hide batteries but I have to keep swapping them out.
As much as I love my dcs systems, there is something very zen about putting a unit on the rails, cycling the handling and watching it go. Simplicity is an understated feature.
MTH locomotives can rev up whenever you want.
No battery power here, I'm not pulling the same boxcar all the time, and my switcher doesn't need the boxcar in the way.
MTH 2/3 rail, high rail wheels are insulated for two rail operation.
My vote is forever improving overall quality.
Something that I have talked to my dad about which I thought would be cool although I don't know if it would ever work just because of obvious reasons would be colored smoke fluid.
@George Werderich posted:Something that I have talked to my dad about which I thought would be cool although I don't know if it would ever work just because of obvious reasons would be colored smoke fluid.
White smoke would be great
An obvious one would be finding a way to make the stuff cheaper, but given the dynamics of the market (low volume usually equals high cost),not likely to happen.
3D printing technology that those into the scale side of things could order basically custom runs on demand (like you used to be able to do with cars), so if you wanted a specific car or variation on an engine, you can get it built relatively easy (and obviously, this isn't true today). It would be much tougher with engines, given the varieties (don't even want to think of a steam engine), but chassis and motors and control boards are relatively standard.
Battery power does solve some of the wiring issues. In theory command control eliminated a lot of the wiring involved, but in reality there is usually a lot more than connect a wire and go, things like switches require wiring an AIU or whatnot to operate them (with battery power, I assume that remote switches would still require wiring on some sort, IDK if you would want to run them on battery power). Thing about batteries is as they become more energy dense (watt hrs/lb, whatever you use) on the high end, it means they can get more power out of smaller batteries, too. There are theoretical limits , but there is no science that says you couldn't have something the size of a watch battery that could power a train for an hour or more and recharge in let's say 5 minutes, simulating a fuel stop.
With command control, I could hope for 1 system (and this is three rail, folks, I realize with 2 rail there is DCC), simply to stop people from having to buy both, but that is not likely to happen.
Clem. batteries go in the locos. two rail guys are doing it now. most get several hours of operation between charges. no need for a battery car. lots of info on dead rail out there. I would like to see a big reduction of the electronics size in these locos. DCC decoders in the scale world are about 2" X 3" for sound and control on one board. and also need to do something about the very unrealistic cab and radio chatter.
@daylight posted:White smoke would be great
I’m talking about like black smoke fluid the stuff we already have is mainly white
I have two features that I really want to see MTH and Lionel add to their respective command systems: sand fill/application buttons with corresponding sounds on engines, and dynamic brake control simulation with sound on diesel locos so equipped.
Operators could simulate loading sand into the sand compartments on a locomotive and then simulate the application of sand to increase traction. The feature would also have corresponding sound effects.
The dynamic brakes could be used with Lionel's Legacy Train Brake lever, and Legacy operators could switch between normal train brakes and dynamic brakes by pressing the AUX-3 key. I don't know how MTH would make the dynamic brake feature work without an update to the app or a new remote.
Also, a new DCS remote that works with the new WTIU and a new Legacy 2.0 system with some new features (including the ones I mentioned above) could be made.
Engineer micro camera mounted in the cab, that is WiFi / Bluetooth enabled for viewing live. Russ
@ricka1 posted:I use battery powered tools, a battery powered lawn mower, and drive a battery powered car. I think the next big revolution, and it's already taking root, is battery power for our O gauge trains. With the current state of battery technology, and things like Bluetooth control, it's only a matter of time before all the features we enjoy in our Legacy, LionChief+ 2.0, and DCS locos can be integrated into a cohesive battery powered package. Imagine the pleasure of never having to worry about wiring challenges, the tedious task of track cleaning, and all the other related things that plague us today! That's what I'd call the next "great feature".
Battery operation here now in several forms. As technology develops and becomes an option, this will offer even more opportunity of choice. Locos already have multiple ways to control the locomotive. The next step would be to offer options of power delivery. Track power or battery power. Battery technology is getting better, locos can have room for a internal battery, with a charge port. Look how small out cell phones are these days. I've converted several lLC+ locos to battery power on my outdoor layout, and get 3 to 4 hours of run time on a 2200 mAh battery. Yes I do use a trailing car, but I'm looking at other alternatives.
@Slugger posted:A mode that simulates wheel-slip or makes starting a train difficult?
Here I am, talking to myself, but last night I finally got around to unboxing Lionel's latest PRR S1. When I looked through the manual, lo-and-behold there was a command to simulate wheel-slip! I haven't tried it out yet, and although it seems it's just a smoke and sound effect, I'm still curious. Still would be nice to add some difficulty with starting a train.
@Slugger posted:Here I am, talking to myself, but last night I finally got around to unboxing Lionel's latest PRR S1. When I looked through the manual, lo-and-behold there was a command to simulate wheel-slip!
Remove the traction tires...
Rusty
Better quality control.
John
@rattler21 posted:About twenty years ago either Lionel or MTH had a passenger platform(under roof) with passengers awaiting the train. When the train departed, all passengers must have boarded as none were on the platform. I have not seen one operate, only saw the catalog listing. Perhaps a Forum member has one. John
Shouldn't be too hard to manage...the train hits a lever (arrows on the side) and the passengers on the platform get dumped into a bin under the platform (out of view behind the train)...something like my crude drawing.
Yes, for now I will not give up my day job to be an engineer...(except a toy train engineer).
Tom
@Joe Fermani posted:Lionel has already done this in the Vision Line Niagara. Lionel called it "Force Coupler". They have not released this feature in other locomotives yet.
Also on the GS visionline series
@dkdkrd posted:Just like that farm field featuring festering fertilizer...
Ah, the 'Breadbasket's" bouquet on a summer's day!
Might want to check with the spouse, though, before adding to the layout's ambiance!
(Oh, wow! Hmmmm. Interesting...I just realized the blue and red colors of the manure spreading equipment above! Subliminal? Metaphorical?
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BTW...Another vote cast for BATTERY POWER!
Driving through Lancaster, Pa. a few years ago with my two young sons we passed an Amish version of the vehicle in your pictures, the stuff was going everywhere, we all laughed, and the kids named it the Poo-Flinger.
Battery power occurred to me as the biggest innovation to come, then I thought about leaking batteries, and the thought disappeared.
Leaking batteries were a factor of old dry cell and even nicad batteries. Modern Lithium batteries don't leak, and next generation batteries even less likely. There are still issues with lithium batteries and overheating, but leaking isn't one of the problems.
Several postings mentioned battery power locos. I support this but recognize that there is an unresolved issue with a simple recharging configuration. There is a development taking place which could result in a battery which never requires recharging and will supply power indefinitely. If this became available, I could envision that all our future locos would be wireless battery powered.
@Slugger posted:Here I am, talking to myself, but last night I finally got around to unboxing Lionel's latest PRR S1. When I looked through the manual, lo-and-behold there was a command to simulate wheel-slip!
I have a Williams brass N&W J class that I ran the traction tires off of a long time ago. It starts with a little wheel slip before digging in and pulling the train I have assigned to it. Very convincing effect and nicely low tech.
@BOB WALKER posted:Several postings mentioned battery power locos. I support this but recognize that there is an unresolved issue with a simple recharging configuration. There is a development taking place which could result in a battery which never requires recharging and will supply power indefinitely. If this became available, I could envision that all our future locos would be wireless battery powered.
Such a thing would not be a battery,by definition a battery needs recharging. As far as indefinitely goes, you could have some kind of ion based fuel cell that lasts a really long time, but wouldn't be infinite (I realize that when you say infinite, you mean likely not in our lifetime or whatever... An infinite power source doesn't exist, it can't, thermodynamics states that entropy increases to a maximum, even the stars are not infinite in terms of lifetime. I think battery technology is getting there, though, that we will see a battery to fit in trains that can run for several hours and could be recharged 80% in like 10 minutes within the next 5 years or so (assuming it doesn't take an 800kw charger to do that *lol*)>
A completely different paradigm in model railroad control. The most realistic layout control possible with exact replication of ABS (Automatic Block Control) and CTC (Centralized Traffic Control). The most realistic locomotive control using realistic graphic-based controls with a realistic locomotive response based on locomotive tractive effort and simulated train loading. And, the two are tied together with one or both being automatic or semi-automatic, or both being manual.
An example, the operator sets the locomotive to automatic and controls train movement on the CTC Dispatch screen. The train slows for yellow indication on signals, stops for red indications, and proceeds at full track speed on green indications. The CTC Dispatch operator selects turnouts to change the locomotive route. Collisions are avoided on multiple trains since the CTC system includes features like tumble-down to prevent two trains from occupying the same track section and going in opposite directions.
A similar scenario where the CTC Dispatch is set to automatic and the train engineer controls the train using in-cab signaling. Back up safety utilizing a PTC (Positive Train Control) system.
I have a ways to go on development, but these are the things Scaled Automation is working on.
Comments and feedback are appreciated.
Russ says "Engineer micro camera mounted in the cab, that is WiFi / Bluetooth enabled for viewing live." You are on the right track. How about a small camera that is actually three cameras in one.. one for straight ahead and the others for left and right. With the cost of monitors so low, you could set up a chair with three monitors surrounding you and make it appear that you are looking out of the cab. Add a control stand and some gauges and PRESTO! you are actually driving the train. Did you read that, LIONEL/ATLAS? Available in both 2 and 3 rail, of course.
On train Loco wireless battery recharging like iphone & others use, with a charging plate or special track piece,
for near non-stop running without track contract problems or signal loss.
Universal DCC/DCS/TMCC control signal acceptance across all brands.
We can dream....
I can think of something, how about some sort of suppressor field that suppresses complaining endemic in the O gauge world "It is too expensive", "people who run conventional are cave men", "People who run modern stuff are going to regret it","York should be member only", "Kids today, all they care about are cell phones and video games, they aren't interested in doing anything real,they have no attention span and want instant gratification", "Crop dusting is a serious problem at trains shows", "My postwar collection is worth 10c on the dollar from what I paid for them, it isn't fair" "My local hobby store closed, it is terrible how LHS's are going under, where am I going to go to look at engines so I know what to order from a discount place?" *lol*.
Whatever the next great feature, it's nice to be able to buy a lower priced traditional version, with the opportunity to upgrade later. Headlight, E-unit, smoke and whistle are good enough for me. I do like the newer lighting options, remote uncoupling, better slow speed operation, and knowing which direction the loco will move when power is applied. But I'd rather see more of my favorite roadnames (Boston and Albany, AEC) at prices under $500. That said, if someone ever produces an RS-1 in AEC Hanford Works orange with working trashcan triple bulb gyralights, all the electronics imaginable. and a four-pack of cask cars, I'll reconsider!
Non-powered engines that cost 25% of the powered version.
I would love to see some kind of technology that would create a virtual yard master/dispatcher/whatever so I can play better by myself.
In the same digital vein, more details on the locomotive would be cool like water, sand, boiler pressure maybe, fuel, etc. Details on freight would be cool but I know that requires a second sensor to determine when you're at your destination.
Basically I think the digital element interacting with the outside world would be awesome. Some people are into running trains on a loop and that's excellent. I was always more of a purpose-driven operator. I want to do stuff with my trains. I think modern electronics could grow that end of the hobby a lot.
Shrinking electronics would be nice but I assume there must be a limitation here, otherwise it would be done.
I've seen some really great suggestions in this thread. I hope the manufacturers see it and head to the drawing board!
VSR for lionchief plus 2.0
legacy 2.0 - a universal system that can run everything ever made with no additional hardware
locomotive camera- long overdue
a legacy cab 2 jr remote - smaller remote still with the LCD screen but with much simpler controls and a cheaper price and it could also work off bluetooth so a base is optional . I think we were supposed to get a junior version of TMCC in the 90s but it never took off. it would be great for people like me who wants all the features of Lionchief plus 2.0 but is very intimidated by the current cab 1 and cab 2 remote. it could have 3 engine channels like the universal remote but then all the necessary buttons for tower, crew etc.
i swear i need to work at lionel because i might have some really good ideas
Would anyone be interested in a graphic user interface on a tablet or phone connecting to a Legacy base via Bluetooth or WiFi ? I have always envisioned a screen for creating consists (or lashups for the restovus) that replicated what we saw on the back panel of our 1:1 locomotives: a headlight control switch. For each locomotive in the 1:48 consist, set the headlight switch to the proper setting, and this would tell the Base everything it needs to know in regard to locomotive position.
I mean, make it real.
Whether we call it a battery or something else, wouldn't it be nice to have continuously powered locos without the necessity for track power with all its delightful problems.
Your calls for smaller electronics and batteries in "O" gauge engines are already possible. You just need to look outside your Legacy and PS-3 systems paradigm. Here is an MTH GP38 I upgraded to battery power.
More than 3 hours continuous running on a charge, Onboard charging (no removal required), PCB protection from over charge / discharge / short.
Much smaller footprint, provides Loco control, features control, sounds (downloadable and/or custom made).
If interested in more info, just search on this forum for RailPro and ron045 in the advanced search and you will see my two projects.
Ron
I believe that when most people talk about battery control they mean factory installed batteries with a simple recharging system. Perhaps a manufacturer could develop a recharging track to recharge any engine sitting on it.
Most of my engines sit in the yard or on a siding while I am running a different engine. It would be cool if they could be recharged while waiting for their next run without having to plug in any wires, etc. NH Joe
This is not a great feature and won’t be prototypical but I would like the ability to switch via cab2 to either 4 chuffs or 2 chuffs per rev. Small wheeled locos at 4 chuffs become a constant noise eliminating the chuff sound altogether.
I thought of a feature that I want to see on Lionel, MTH, and Atlas O modern diesels. If you look at a modern diesel, such as a GEVO or SD70ACe, the bearing caps rotate. Lionel, MTH, and Atlas have the rotating bearing caps on freight cars, and the feature is realistic, but I want the feature on locomotives, too. Scaletrains, a company that makes highly detailed HO and N Scale models, has rotating bearing caps on their modern diesel models.
I feel bad saying this but I just assumed O scale diesels had the rotating bearing caps. It seems like a great detail that wouldn't be too much trouble to add. I hope they can add this in the future!
A inexpensive car that can hold your cellphone (with a adjustable mount for viewing). This way you place your cellphone into the holder and run your train around the layout. It wouldn’t easy to make👍😊
What's with the battery obsession? Seriously, who wants to keep buying and replacing batteries, or needing to recharge them constantly??? What a pain in the butt! If batteries become the standard, I won't be buying any new products. Rechargeable batteries are not that reliable and die faster as time goes by. (My cellphone lasted a day and a half when new, but now needs charging 2-3 times per day. It is a year and a half old). Nope, I'll stay with electric.
@RonH posted:A inexpensive car that can hold your cellphone (with a adjustable mount for viewing). This way you place your cellphone into the holder and run your train around the layout. It wouldn’t easy to make👍😊
This is a good idea actually. You can use an old cell phone and a video chat app to see around the layout instead of dedicated wifi video hardware. This would be a cool DIY project.
I'm also not a fan of the battery idea @Brian DeFazio. I would give it a shot if there someone had a train to let me try it but I don't know if there are many benefits to it. I am always open to change though.
BillYo414:
I am going to need some Beta testing on my BPRC locomotives in a month or two. My thought is that I would send you a locomotive ready to run, with a charger and a tablet. You would test (play with) it for a while, then give me comments. Once done testing you would send the hardware back to me at my expense.
If you or others are interested, please send me a PM and I will start a list.
A teaser: realistic Cab Control with Reverser, Throttle, Air Brakes, Auxiliary Brakes, Dynamic Brakes, real-time acceleration/deceleration based on the train being modeled, in-cab fuel level (battery charge indication), and more. I believe the most prototype realistic locomotive operation available.
How about something we've been asking for since Post-War: Operating couplers that don't need a scale 25 mph to close and open. I'd like to have much more realistic coupling in freight yards.
Paul
@bigkid posted:Leaking batteries were a factor of old dry cell and even nicad batteries. Modern Lithium batteries don't leak, and next generation batteries even less likely. There are still issues with lithium batteries and overheating, but leaking isn't one of the problems.
No disrespect meant, if O gauge went to "Dead rail", why use a 3 rail?
Dick
@Railrunnin posted:How about something we've been asking for since Post-War: Operating couplers that don't need a scale 25 mph to close and open. I'd like to have much more realistic coupling in freight yards.
Paul
They're called Kadee couplers...
Rusty
@Rusty Traque posted:They're called Kadee couplers...
Rusty
And they don't come with any car or engine I've ever bought EXCEPT for certain K-Line Plymouths. I'm talking about standard equipment - not retrofits.
Paul
What's with the track power obsession? Seriously, who wants to keep runing all that wire and soldering to track, creating blocks and cleaning track constantly??? What a pain in the butt!
See how your thoughts work both ways brian.defazio?
Ok, so it's not for you. Congratulations on your decision. So others are not allowed to enjoy and embrace?
Diversity is a good thing. There's more than one way to run a railroad.
Have Fun.
Ron
@CBQer posted:No disrespect meant, if O gauge went to "Dead rail", why use a 3 rail?
Dick
For all of those engines you have not converted to deadrail yet? 😉
Or in my case because my Son and Brother-in-law still run Legacy and DCS and I like it when they bring their trains and visit me.😁
Have Fun!
Ron
@Dylan the Train Man posted:I thought of a feature that I want to see on Lionel, MTH, and Atlas O modern diesels. If you look at a modern diesel, such as a GEVO or SD70ACe, the bearing caps rotate. Lionel, MTH, and Atlas have the rotating bearing caps on freight cars, and the feature is realistic, but I want the feature on locomotives, too. Scaletrains, a company that makes highly detailed HO and N Scale models, has rotating bearing caps on their modern diesel models.
This is the feature that I mentioned when I started this thread, so I’m totally on board with you @Dylan the Train Man! I have been jealous of those smaller scale guys for a bit now because of that feature.
I would think O scale cars and trucks that run on batteries that stop and start based on lights to add to my city train scenes.
@paigetrain posted:VSR for lionchief plus 2.0
legacy 2.0 - a universal system that can run everything ever made with no additional hardware
locomotive camera- long overdue
a legacy cab 2 jr remote - smaller remote still with the LCD screen but with much simpler controls and a cheaper price and it could also work off bluetooth so a base is optional . I think we were supposed to get a junior version of TMCC in the 90s but it never took off. it would be great for people like me who wants all the features of Lionchief plus 2.0 but is very intimidated by the current cab 1 and cab 2 remote. it could have 3 engine channels like the universal remote but then all the necessary buttons for tower, crew etc.
i swear i need to work at lionel because i might have some really good ideas
I agree (legacy 2.0 - a universal system that can run everything ever made with no additional hardware)
A universal one stop system would be great.
@Ron045 posted:Seriously, who wants to keep runing all that wire
I would save oodles on wire if battery power were the way haha
Your post is how I learned not to shoot down new technology. I don't have to like it but it could be better for others. That's why I said I would try a battery locomotive if given the chance. Maybe I'll love it! I still think I'll hate it. What I actually suspect is that I will hardly notice a difference and that alone would be beneficial because it means I can buy the 3 rail powered locomotives and I can buy battery powered.
Then again, if those fabled super duper graphene batteries ever came about, that would really change the game. I feel like I come across them in the news once a year but I never see them in production. Lithium tech was mind blowing the first time I used it. The articles I have skimmed claimed graphene would be even better 
Ron045, BillYo414:
Regarding battery powered versus rail power I think there may be a middle ground. I have a small add-on board that will let locomotives with my controller run on internal battery, DC track power, AC track power, and DCC. The board is still being tested, but I think the concept is sound. The issue of 3-rail versus 2-rail is a little more of a challenge since the battery-powered mode doesn't require the extra pick-up.
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