Newbie, going wireless-what 2 use?, laying track with big fast dog?storage of equipment

[Anonymous]

I have read many strands on here but have questions, if explained on other strands please tell me which ones. I am an experinced HO modeler, love gardening (for the last 2 years), wife put 2 & 2 together and got me an USA GP7 for christmas (got to LOVE the wife!) I have been toying with this idea of a garden railroad since I bought a house 2 years ago, so I have a basic layout idea in mind. I plan an layout around the yard (40x70 approx) etc eventually.
Questions
#1 I plan to go wireless- I've done basic wiring (HO and house wiring), sound a lot easier than cleaning track -plus I plan on snow trains. I want to know various methods R/C car batts, aristo crafts stuff, etc and how long they last in locos and which transmitters to use and how far transmitters work.
#2 I have a dog (45lb Standard Poodle) who loves to run, and run and run (he will thow 1"+ rocks several feet when he starts running) will track joiners (HO name), or the clamps, or what to keep the track in place.
#3 balast -just give me a good ref book, mag, etc that will meet #2 and give good drainage etc in Iowa (weather from approx 100+ to -10 degrees, with ususally 90+ humidity ) my soil can be a bit swampy in spring.- thankfully no standing water but my neighbor does get 1-2" standing water in the back of his yard each spring (about 1' lower than my yard)
#4 which track to use, I dont think Im gonna care about conductivity assuming I stay with #1. but looks and #2, lawn mowers, etc damage. Ive read several times LGB switches are best, but is that for workings or electricty, or price
#5 I plan to build a (locked) shed to store cars-poss locos (covered all sides, slightly raised ( approx 3") on the long side but on the ground, but they would still be subject to humidity/temp changes, will they be ok in there, (receivers, electronics, rust) do I need fans etc
any help appricidated[:D]

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by TheRockModeler

I have read many strands on here but have questions, if explained on other strands please tell me which ones. I am an experinced HO modeler, love gardening (for the last 2 years), wife put 2 & 2 together and got me an USA GP7 for christmas (got to LOVE the wife!) I have been toying with this idea of a garden railroad since I bought a house 2 years ago, so I have a basic layout idea in mind. I plan an layout around the yard (40x70 approx) etc eventually.
Questions
#1 I plan to go wireless- I've done basic wiring (HO and house wiring), sound a lot easier than cleaning track -plus I plan on snow trains. I want to know various methods R/C car batts, aristo crafts stuff, etc and how long they last in locos and which transmitters to use and how far transmitters work.

I would go with RCS or Airwire both have there merits and systems for batteries
#2 I have a dog (45lb Standard Poodle) who loves to run, and run and run (he will thow 1"+ rocks several feet when he starts running) will track joiners (HO name), or the clamps, or what to keep the track in place. Use either split jaw or hillman railclamps and this should remedy that issue
#3 balast -just give me a good ref book, mag, etc that will meet #2 and give good drainage etc in Iowa (weather from approx 100+ to -10 degrees, with ususally 90+ humidity ) my soil can be a bit swampy in spring.- thankfully no standing water but my neighbor does get 1-2" standing water in the back of his yard each spring (about 1' lower than my yard)

Goto the Garden Railways home page and order the book Garden Railways-Getting started, It's a great reference book
#4 which track to use, I dont think Im gonna care about conductivity assuming I stay with #1. but looks and #2, lawn mowers, etc damage. Ive read several times LGB switches are best, but is that for workings or electricty, or priceAristocraft track is strong and affordable, there buy 4 boxes get one free sale starts in February. Some say LGB is stronger but not by much. The issue of switches is LGB vs.Aristo is only relevant if you are track power. It also sounds like your into them deisels so don't use anything less than a 5 ft raduis curve, like HO bigger is better
#5 I plan to build a (locked) shed to store cars-poss locos (covered all sides, slightly raised ( approx 3") on the long side but on the ground, but they would still be subject to humidity/temp changes, will they be ok in there, (receivers, electronics, rust) do I need fans etc Make it water tight, meaning no direct water on the locos or rolling stock but have ventilation for air flowto keep condensation from happing. A fan like a computer fan would be great for the really humid months.
any help appricidated[:D]

And most of all [#welcome] Ask lots of questions[;)]

[tmcc man]

Also, if you want to go with electric, the Aristo Craft Train Engineer is something to look at. I know the batteries for the battery powered stuff are expensive as well as the onboard recievers. I was thinking about it, but decided not to. The chargers, batteries themselves, reciever, transmitter, was too expensive for a kid starting out.

[kstrong]

1) Airwire and RCS would be my recommendation. From my experience, RCS has range problems if you're covering long distances (20' or more). They have a more powerful transmitter which I have yet to use which is supposed to remedy this problem. My dad just bought an Airwire system, and will be testing it on his railroad. I'm awaitng his results before deciding which system I invest in next. I like the "dial" control on the Airwire vs. the "pushbutton" control of the RCS. My suggestion would be to get in touch with your local garden railway club and see if anyone there is using either system, and take it for a test drive. Both are roughly equal in terms of installation and interfacing with sound systems, etc.

I use the regular AA size Energizer rechargable NiMH (nickel metal-hydride) batteries, and get around 2 - 2.5 hours on a charge from them. You can also get larger capacity batteries and get 3.5 - 4 hours per charge, if not more.

As for the Aristocraft equipment, I have not had great luck with it. They may have improved in the past years, but I'd look to spend my money on either the RCS or Airwire systems instead. I think they're well worth the extra money.

2) I've got a 60 lb Golden/Chow mix who's equally brutal on the ground. The trick is to anchor your track to the ground, so the dog can't damage it with his paws. The other trick is to train him not to run in the railroad, but that's easier said than done. I used 1' or 2' lenghts of rebar spaced every 3' or so, holding 1/2" PVC electrical conduit that serves as a sub-roadbed for the track. Thusfar, the dog has yet to do any damage. His owner, on the other hand... (Hint: mark bridge locations with something so when the snow falls and buries them, you know not to step there.) If you anchor your track, you can use regular slip-on rail joiners without any trouble--especially if you're using battery power.

3) You'll want to go to your local rock quarry or rock yard and ask for something called "Crusher fines," "Squeegee," "Quarter-minus," "Rock Dust," or "Road Sand." They're all the same thing--what's left over from the crusher after it's done making all the other sizes of rock.

The advantages of this stuff is that it's got sharp edges which will lock together and hold the track in place, but still provide ample drainage. You can also go to your local feed store and look for chicken grit. Most folks use the middle size, called "grower" or some such. It's a bit more expensive, but it's just as good, and easier to carry in the trunk of your car.

4) Track? You've got lots of options here. If you want to use the large code 332 rail, then Aristo and LGB are your friends. Aristo is generally cheaper, and they have a buy 4-get one free sale every February, which can save you even more money. I've used their track and 5' radius switches with no trouble for a few project railroads, but I've heard of people having trouble with their switches. They worked for me, but your milage may vary. You can also use any of the custom switch manufacturers (Parker and Co., etc.) who advertise in GR, if you've got unique spaces to fit.

You can also go with the smaller--and more prototypical looking--code 250 rail from a number of manufacturers. AMS, Llagas Creek, and Sunset Valley are the most popular. I'm using AMS track on my railroad, and have been 100% pleased with it. I used Llagas Creek on my last one, and found the tie strips very tight on the rails, but aesthetically very nice. Switches in this size rail are going to be more expensive, but they're also very well made.

One thing I will heartily recommend... There's a new rail bender on the market made by Train-li. They advertise in GR, and their railbender is perhaps the slickest thing I've seen in a long, long time. It bends both rails at the same time without having to take them out of the tie strips, so you don't have to disassemble anything to bend the track to your desired radius. It's a bit pricey--around $265 I think--but in terms of useful tools, it's well worth the price. It works for both code 250 and 332 rail.

5) There should be no trouble with outdoor storage. I have a few friends who do that in a similar climate without trouble. Personally, I'd bring the locomotives inside during the winter, but they should be fine. Again, check with your local garden railway society and see what others in your area are doing.

Later,

K

[Anonymous]

I think the Aristo track sale is during Jan & Feb. Buy from any authorized dealer and send Aristo a copy of the receipt. Aristo will send you 1 for every 4 you have bought but you pay postage. Covers most but not all of their track items. Check the Aristo web site for details as soon as they post the sale info. Not posted yet...probably on 1 Jan.
Paul D

[Anonymous]

Thank You all For Responding, I'm continuing reading my way thru these forums and taking notes, anyone elses comments appriciated (completely reading 2 base strands-you guys are very helpful) .
A couple new questions My USA trains GP7 it is 1:29 scale right? - cant seem to find this out for sure, is there a list somewhere as to which manufactures make what scale -ie is all LGB equipment 1:22 or is their modern equipment 1:29?
I do plan to run "modern equipment" ie diesel, although after building the layout if I can afford a shay I'll probally get me one, I love watching them move in HO and 1:1 scale ( there is one in southern IA) I cant wait to see one of those in G.
#2 is there a list somewhere as to who all makes what, and who sells it? ie track -USA & aristo (the same as I understand), and LGB -anyone else make good outside track, and who to stay away from? I know no Bachman or all plastic.

[moparrailfan]

I would recommend modeling the Norfolk Southern!!

[kstrong]

USA and Aristo build their models to 1:29. LGB will not state a specific scale for their products, but have stated that their recent trend with their north american standard gauge prototypes is to build them to 1:29 as well. My rule of thumb with LGB is to have a scale rule handy, or compare it at the hobby shop with other equipment.

As for track, I can't think of anyone's track to steer clear of. USA and Aristo track is reportedly made at the same factory, but that doesn't mean others' track isn't completely compatible. Your bigger choice will be rail material, which if you're doing battery, you can use brass with absolutely no worries. Save your money for another piece of rolling stock instead.

All the major players have web sites which catalog their offerings, so I'd start there for lists of who has what. Saving that, check the ads in GR. St. Aubins and Trainworld have fairly exhaustive lists which you can use for comparison shopping. They're non complete down to every last little part, but they've got most of the major pieces listed.

Later,

K

[TonyWalsham]

Hello Eric.

It has taken me a little while to get the pix and drawings sorted out into some sort of order but I have now posted a general guide on installing battery R/C into USA Trains locos here:

http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=53755

[Anonymous]

FYI all moparrailfan is my best friend and will be helping build/buy equipment and you cna guess what his fav railroad is.....mine is Rock Island if you couldnt guess by my handle and the reason he put that on here....
thanks again all.
FYI 2 I'm still researching, but I'm probably goin your way Tony-if for no other reason than your commitment and responses -if your product is like your time on here it has to be good :)

[Anonymous]

Dear TheRockModeler

Your question about lawnmowers blowing debri possibly blowing ballast away is one we also faced. We have a gardner and we started to get grass and rocks in our tracks and ballast. We solved this by buying long rolls of car matt ( the kind you use to prevent car carpet from getting dirty) and cutting it up in to peices were we needed it.
Your question about the dog moving your track around, the answer can go both ways in meaning rail clampa can be good and bad. For protectig your track to keep in in place rail clamps can be used but good locked ballast might work better. Because as climate changes occur the track with expand and shrink so you dont wanna place track permanetly.
BALLAST! For our garden railway it took us months to find our right ballast. from the books it tells you to lay DG down (decomposed granite) and then place your preffered ballast down. When we found our ballast it was DG #5 a gray gravel that was anywhere from 1/16" to 1/4". We found that just laying the ballast was fine and creatted enough drainage for our freeky wheather here in California. But a tip to securing ballast we found usinf Tightbond II ( a glue comes in gallon bottles) and drizzling allong the ties holds the ballast, and dries clear.
The best track to use in my opinion is Bachmann brass and plastic ties. Bachmann track is very conductive and is probobaly the least likely brand to rust.
Your question of storage is one i myself faced when i came to storing and protecting my buildings, engines, and cars. Well when we are not using our train we pick it all up and store ot in an open metal and protected wood 4 shelf ( from Home Depot). The shelf keeps it off the ground and comes with a clear zipper cover to put over and is easy to get off. We do not have any ventiallation in the garage and it gets pretty hot in the winter. The only form of ventillation is we leave the zipper unzipped three feet below it is fully closed.

[route_rock]

Hey Rock my question is, where in Iowa are you? Over here in the Mecca of our favorite railroad( well sw RI but hey) Planning to do the same when I get the yard all to myslef.
Stay safe all.

[moparrailfan]

I'm a friend of RockModeler. We both live in Des Moines,IA.

[route_rock]

Good deal mopar! But you know if he modeled NS in Des Moines hed have to have a bunch of BNSF stuff hehehehe. But at least his track would be better I hope!
So are you doing a prototype deal or just Rock Island stuff? I am not sure where my Rock Island will be plunked in era wise or if Ill just let it be a shrine any thing goes kinda layout.

[moparrailfan]

I know he is doing Rock Island,but I'm not sure if he is doing a specific era or not. I plan on doing a NS roadrailer train to run at his house. I plan on doing a garden railroad myself,but I want to do some more work on my HO scale layout first.

[route_rock]

Know the feeling. Good luck and if you have any pointers or tips send some my way. Oh yeah and enjoy the snow!( going to get over 8 inches here)

[Anonymous]

HiYa Route_Rock, Yes I'm modeling The Rock, but haven't figured out the era or if Im gonna era bash. I have a USA trains Rock Island GP7, but I love the blue era ( I plan to do a HO layout based in the late 70's, but outside is gonna be built 1st). I have a few friends who plan to help (moparrailfan has promised to help me build, but I'll have to let his NS on the layout-tradeoffs ya know).

Update for everyone: I have goined CIGRS (the local garden RR club) . I now have 8 tubes of Aristocraft flex track sitting in my hallway for my wife to trip over. I had to help the UPS gal unload the truck. I plan to order switches next month while the buy 4 get one free deal is still on. The CIGRS has already been a big help, they told me where to get ballast, have members with RCS, and Aristo, etc contracts for local buying. It apears Im ready for spring to break ground.
thanks again all for your responses.

[FJ and G]

Instead of posting this separately, I'll try to piggyback a dog-related question to this threat that may be of interest to others as well as the original poster.

In browsing back thru some old GRR issues, I found one that showed telephone pole construction using real wires for power to light buildings and stuff.

I'm considering adding such a system later on once construction is near completion.

Problem is that I've got a beagle who likes to run, and since she's lower to the ground than a big dog, I'm a bit concerned that during her evening springs thru the backyard, chasing rabbits, she may impale herself on a telephone pole.

Any suggestions appreciated.

[ttrigg]

David;

Don't think you need to worry about "impaling the dog" unless you are using steel telephone poles in concrete footers. Rather you would need to worry about the dog getting twisted up in the wire. More than once I've had to "unwire" my dogs. Totally gave up on the process and buried the wire.

[route_rock]

Good to here Rock! Yes outside here may be in Blue ( Grew up in that time frame) but I have a ton of Rock Island paperwork form the early 20th century. I want to do a RI in steam and a rock island in the 80's! YEs I said 80s its my RR darn it!
But who knows whats going to happen. I do know I close on my house in a few days!! And after all this and a root canal ( seriously I have to get one done) I will be planning for the outside layout but wont be getting much done I dont think till spring.or later.
Hopefully I will have some pics by then and you too Rockmodeler! Even if you haev to run something NS on there. What the heck!

[Anonymous]

Well Route_rock sounds like you'll be plenty busy here soon, I hated moving, good luck with all that. hope to keep in touch as the RI lives again (at least in both of our back yards)

[route_rock]

Amen my friend!! BTW do you have a truck??????hehehe Pizza and beer at my place all you have to do is help carry!
I have moved 39 times total in my life ( nope not a military brat but I should have been!) and my wife promises me we will not move till after I am 40. So thats 6 years away! Woo hoo Maybe Ill count backwards now on my b day.
I was at the local hobby shop looking about and getting stuff planned and ready. I am lucky a few local shops carry Garden Rail supplies and Major art and hobby in Davenport ( shameless plug) has a ton of Rock Island equipment.However it will be in spurts for a while so who knows I might get grade stakes done this year and plan out the layout and start next year ( that gives me 5 years lol) But if things go faster between BNSF the tourist line I help run in freeport and everything else thats demanding my attention I will have pics up by fall of some progress.I hope.

[Anonymous]

I have a truck, not sure it would make it that far, its a low mile (300,000) '86 F150 that some farmer beat the S*** out of -all orginal rust and all... -got it cheap (I borrowed it from a friend when I built my pond last year and to make a long story short he gave me the title so it wouldnt show back up in his driveway), but my wife drives a small SUV that works for moving it has been tested twice (when I moved in, and 1 year later when we got maried she moved in) let me know, I dont mind helping if Im not busy
Eric

[route_rock]

LOL no prob man glad to see you are available but from the sounds of it , it will be a three ring circus! My best friends from HS works for a lumber supply company and they have a box truck he is bringing( sweet one load ) plus with the amount of people here I am hoping I get called to work( seriously though I hope they call hate moving)
BTW WE CLOSED TODAY!!! wooooh oooooooooo!! Backyard is pretty good sized and will be a rectangular shape layout. Hopefully next year we add to the back of the garage 4 extra feet (might pull off 6 feet or more havent measured) To have my workshop/backshop. So you know what this means! I finally have to get my dead butt out of the armchair !!! Pics to post of the yard after we settle in.