Quote from: Johnson Bar Jeff on December 11, 2013, 11:03:03 AM
So there are two plans from the 1950s that originally used 15-inch-radius curves. Were 15-R curves more commonly used "back then"?  

Yes, and sometimes as small as 13"R.  Most modelers didn't have the extra room for large train layouts back then so most layout designs were small (the 4x8 being very common).  In fact, Atlas's 22"R was considered a luxury back then.  Of course, we didn't run (nor were they commonly available back then anyway) UP Big Boys or Challengers on 4x8 layouts but the popular little 0-4-0 "Docksides", "Little Hustler" diesels, and 40ft freight cars operated just fine on the tighter curves.

Harvey

Quote from: GG1onFordsDTandI on November 30, 2013, 09:47:26 PM
...I heard George Carlins voice...

I think they have drugs now that'll cure this. 

Harvey

Thanks.  I'll look forward to it.

Harvey

Quote from: Doneldon on November 22, 2013, 03:47:51 PM
I have a large scale twice around (easy to do with a crossing) which is roughly 42" across.

Don,

Any chance of posting that track plan?  I have a Lehman Christmas train that I put under our tree every year and the plain oval has become plain boring!

Harvey

I agree with DesertDweller in that the 4x8 is often a rite of passage.  It is usually the first "real" layout that follows the simple circle of track included with someone's first train set.  

But the humble 4x8 can also have other uses besides being a kid's first layout.  For some, it may be the biggest layout that can be put in a dorm room or small apartment.  It can also serve as an educational platform for learning new scenery or tracklaying techniques.  Or it could be a diorama for photography work. Or it could be a building block with planned incorporation into a bigger layout when the ultimate layout space becomes available.  Or it could even be built by an experienced model railroader for donation to a day care center, a church, or a children's hospital.  None of these care that the layout lacks a goal, aim, or mission.

I doubt any of us expects a 4x8 sheet of plywood to become the ultimate layout but to a 12 year old kid, it can be the second step of a great hobby!

Harvey

Wow, what a neat idea!

Harvey

Guys,

Thanks for your replies and suggestions.  One of the links that RichG sent me to had this one which will fit my needs and the price is right:

http://www.jameco.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?search_type=jamecoall&catalogId=10001&freeText=velleman+mk134&langId=-1&productId=2130888&storeId=10001&ddkey=http:StoreCatalogDrillDownView

Now, if I can find another one with a diesel horn I'll be all set!

Harvey

You must have grandkids too!

Harvey

I just know that my 4yo grandson is gaga over Thomas and Friends on PBS.  He hasn't indicated whether he approves or disapproves of their couplers. 

Harvey

Thanks Rich.  (Yes, I can solder.)

Harvey

Hi All,

I'm thinking ahead about my grandson's next layout and I'd like to add some sound to it.  I don't want to get into DCC with sound decoders in the locomotives (I'm not ready to spend that kind of money on a 5 year old's layout) but would like to add a couple of sound modules under the layout that can be activated by pushbuttons.  Bachmann offers a diesel horn (#46208, mounted in an HO oil tank) and a steam whistle (#46209, mounted in a freight building).  Does anybody know if the modules are available separately?  Conversely, does anyone know where I could find a suitable module?

Thanks,

Harvey

Thanks!  (I should've realized that!!! )

Harvey

Thanks D.  What about coupler swing?

Harvey

Okay, found it.

Looks like your layout is well under way too!

Harvey

Jerry,

I couldn't find the post you're talking about.

Harvey