Newbie, with the usual questions? Maybe?

[Anonymous]

Hello everyone,
I found this site while looking for train layout ideas. I read a few of the post and got some great ideas. My daughter got a train set from her grandfather and we played with it for a couple of days. She really enjoyed it. Now we need to expand on it. I have been looking for a hobby that we could work together on .
I'm thinking about creating a tran city on a 4x8 sheet of plywood.
I was hoping you guys could point me in the right direction?
I would love to see some photo's of your layouts.
Some wiring ideas?
Some must have ideas?
And the Do's and Don'ts of trailroading?
Thank you,
Tim

[brianel027]

Tim, start by going through the topics here... there are some, including some I've written about this subject (you can also do a search using the search feature here). 3-rail trains today are more technical and more advanced than ever. There are also more choices and options, which is also very confusing to a newcomer like yourself. And many of us established modelers have varied opinions on what to use and do - much like polictics, it all depends on your perspective. For example, I use the old standard "027" track. It has plusses and minuses, but it is the most affordable of all the new track systems. The new Lionel sets come with "FasTrack" which is very convenient for floor layouts and temporary table layouts. But I think the base (roadbed) of the track is too big for a 4'x8' layout. With the 40-inch outer diameter, you'll be able to do nothing more than an extended oval. At least the 027 track allows a few more options. But there are many who will disagree with me on this.
Probably the best site for folks like you is: www.thortrains.net
Check that website out. Lionel and all the companies should do a link to that site. It is HIGHLY recommended not only by me, but many others here... lots of basic info on that site and many layout ideas in all the various track types out today.
I would check out your local library also and see if there are any books on Lionel trains and layout building. You should look for the December, January and upcoming February issues of Classic Toy Trains - there's a good series of articles on building a 4'x8' layout with 027 track. Also the train mags (the other being O Gauge Railroading) list upcoming train shows - maybe there's one in your area. You might consider checking a local train shop if you have one... there are books on basic layout building, and maybe the shop owner can help. If you make purchases from him, he'll be more likely to lend his help. Try the MTH trains website at www.railking.com. There was a link (can't say if it's still there) for various modelers with their layouts. Of course, the emphasis is on layouts with MTH product, but you'll still get ideas.
As you see the new trains being made today, you'll have to decide whether you're going to model with true scale sized items or the more traditionally sized items of years past. There are many companies worth looking into:
Lionel: www.Lionel.com
K-Line: www.k-linetrains.com
Williams: www.williamselectrictrains.com
Industrial Rail: www.industrialrail.com
MTH Trains: www.railking.com

Those are just for starters. You may also try using your computer host search engine and search for Lionel train layouts. I know there are many websites covering many aspects of the hobby. AND don't be afraid to let your little girl PLAY! Nothing wrong with loading up a gondola car with a bunch of farm animals and horses... little girls sure do love horses - so let her have some fun, as long as she's not breaking stuff (that's more of a worry with boys, anyways).

I know you asked a simple question. When you check ww.thortrains.net you'll see that the answers are as varied as the product being made today also is!! Most of all, good luck, have fun and welcome! The memories you build with your daughter will be priceless.
brianel

[Anonymous]

brianel027,
Thank you for the quick reply.
I searched this board before I posted. I was looking for pictures so I could get some ideas on simple to to moderate layouts. ( Iwas n't very successful)
I guess I need to learn the lingo?
I would agree that 4x8 sheet may be a little small but like most people I have limited space.
I am planning a trip to the local hobby shops today to search for more info.
I wanted this to be a long term project. I wanted to make a good base for the train so that we could grow with it.
I was looking for basic ideas and materials, how thick of ply would, is one kind better than the other. (I was think 3/4 inch?)
How thick does the insulation (stryofoam) need to be? (1/2 to 1 inch?)
What kind of controller would I need to operate the train, a few lights, and signals.
Should I add a boarder around the 4x8 to prevent trains from falling off the board.
I will check the site you mentions.
Thank you again,
Timn

[turbine682]

Tim,

First, welcome to this board and the hobby. Glad to see you and your daughter are enjoying trains! As mentioned, you will find a great deal of info (text format) presented on this board.

I've sited a few books for model railroading on previous posts; however, some layout plans are relatively large, i.e., basement or garage size. In addition to layout plans, there is a book called Building Model Railroad Benchwork by Lynn Wescott (sp?). This book covers all of the techniques for building solid benchwork. Generally, 1/2 inch plywood (or laminate (2) 1/4 inch strips) is sufficient for sub-roadbed. However, this is geared for those who are using L-girder and joists. Another method which is excellent for 4X8 is known as "cookie cutter". It really depends on what you are trying to accomplish as far as the foundation for trackwork and scenary. Your idea of going to the local hobby store is excellent and prove to be very helpful. Also, check out issues of Classic Toy Trains magazine. The past 2 have everything you need to put together a nice 4 x 8.

Operationally, you should have a least one siding that includes an uncoupler and a run-around. A run-around allows a train to pull into a siding (vs. backing), uncouple cars, and then the engine can exit the siding back onto the mainline. The engine is not trapped on the siding and can move on to other parts of the layout.

A previous post offered excellent ideas regarding accessories, etc. that allow interactions.

Hope this helps some. Check this board often and post all your questions and thoughts. Plenty of expertise available here.

Happy Holidays!