Track setup, first timer!

[Anonymous]

A couple of ?'s for the first timer. My son and I are building our first rail project. We purchased the AMI instant roadbed yesterday. Has anyone used this bed and how long does it remain tacky to hold track and ballast?

Can we just lay the track then press a bit and that's it??

How often do we need to supply power around the track for DCC?

Any recommended DCC wiring books that we should look at?

I appreciate the help and hopefully our trains will run successfully!

[csxt30]

[#welcome] to the forum jleichty ! I have one source of info here that may be of help. Others will be along for more help also. Not sure on your roadbed, but I think you have to secure it . Some ballast the track & that will hold it. Let us know what track you plan to use & that will help.
Thanks, John
http://www.toytrains1.com/DCS_Tips.htm

[csxt30]

Oh, let me add one more thing that may help !
http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8ZYtnLVwwwg

[Dr. John]

[#welcome]

From other posts I have read concerning AMI, people either love it or hate it. It does hold the track securely but it is also unforgiving. It is VERY sticky initially, and will hold to your surface, track, ballast, dust and small animals very well. I do not know how long it remains sticky but I imagine for a long time.

I'll have to let one of the DCC guys field your other questions. Most of us are O gaugers and use either TMCC or DCS, if we don't run conventional. DCC is used primarily on HO and N scale motive power, so you might try the Model Railroader forum for those questions. I do know that your wiring will depend upon the size of your layout.

Good luck!