For the newcomers and beginners who've posted here

[brianel027]

I've noticed (with happiness) that there have been quite a few posts here from beginners with questions on sets, trains, layouts, etc. I would like to heartily recommend you check out this web site:
http://www.thortrains.net

This man, known as Thor CNJ certainly deserves an award in my book for having one of the most useful and informative websites to answer beginners questions. There are quite a few examples of layouts you can build in small spaces with the various kinds of track that are made today. Really, this site is very much worth investigating if you are new to the hobby! 5-star rating in my book!!

On a related note (aside from posting questions here) you might want to check your local public library or bookstore. Greenburg Publications, and the company that graciously hosts this forum, Kalmbach Publications - have been printing books on trains for years. I know my library here in Corning, NY and my former hometown, Ithaca - both had books on beginning to build a layout.
Be sure to at least take a flip through some of the other Kalmbach books too - although they may focus on HO scale trains, there are certainly things (like with scenery building techniques) that are easily adapted to our larger Lionel train layouts. You can probably order the Kalmbach books right here on this site. Another book by Allan Miller (for around $15) on building your first layout is also recommened by me. I've seen Allan's book at Border's and you can probably find it at amazon.com.

And again (another non-solicited, unpaid endorsement) the last, current and upcoming issues of Classic Toy Trains is featuring a series on building a 4'x8' 027 layout. Very good articles so far, and will give you ideas and pointers (I've been using insulation foam tape under 027 metal track ties for years - very helpful especially on a hollow-core door layout - that and economical black foam-core board made railroad ties).

Good luck, brianel
*and remember, not all Lionel Trains are (or will be) high priced collectibles. Play with them, just take care of them too! Whether they become valuble or not, the fun you have is priceless - and that's what should really matter!

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the great link. I have been looking for layout plans for a long time.

-Tom

[Anonymous]

Some excellent reccomendations you made there! I frequently visit www.thortrains.net . There's a lot of great stuff for those of us who are already seasoned hobbyists as well. I also do believe that Thor is a member here on the forums under the name "thor".

[Anonymous]

I left HO for clasic O gauge toy trains six months ago. The link to Thor's Trains in the original post is a link to an exellent site. I am building one of his 4' x 8' O-31 layouts. His web site is what convinced me it was possible to enjoy O gauge on a sheet of plywood. There is a wealth of information for Lionel and other scales. It really ought to be a formal link from trains.com.

I also want to thank everyone that has replied to my previous questions. Y'all have been a big help.