Introduction

[wheelman]

Being new to this forum, guess I'll just feel my way around.

A couple of years ago, I built an Accucraft Ruby from the kit, and eventually got her running OK.

My test track is an oval of brass track on a raised deck of pressure treated lumber set on wheels. The deck is 5' x 12' with a 3' x 8' hole in the middle. I run trains from inside while chatting with guests outside. The deck can be wheeled into the shade in the summer, or into shelter from the wind in the winter.

Recently I added an Aristocraft 0-4-0 Shifter to my roster. Since it came with radio control and the Ruby is manual, I get to compare control methods. Jury is out for now.

My primary activity now is track planning for a garden layout, using Atlas RTS Freeware, This app does not feature 45mm track, but since n gauge (9mm) is exactly 1/5 of G, I need only multiply or devide to use it. So far I have collected a large number of prospective plans, but will continue until satisfied. Meanwhile, there seems to be lots to learn about landscaping, plants, etc.

As my efforts progress, I would welcome any suggestions or questions. No doubt, I will have questions, also.

Thanks

[JRB 1953]

DEAR WHEELMAN,

WELCOME TO THE SITE.  LET THE QUESTIONS BEGIN.  THEY'RE MANY THAT WILL SURLEY ANSWER YOUR REQUESTS.  I FOUND THIS VERY HELPFUL WHEN I WAS BEGINNING AND DON'T BE AFRAID OF ASKING SOMETHING WHICH YOU MIGHT FEEL IS SILLY OR DUMB, WE ALL STARTED THAT WAY.  WELL, I DID.

JOHN

[smcgill]

Good luck!

Sean

 

[kstrong]

My one thought about using the N-scale templates and sizing them up; just be aware that the radii available in large scale trackage may not (likely will not) be available in multiples of 5 of the Atlas track sections. Use the software to get an idea for what might fit the space, but then adapt to use the commercially available sectional track (if you want to go that route) or the flex track from the various manufacturers (my personal preference).

Also know that most "small scale" track plans do not necessarily translate all that well into the garden setting. It's hard to pinpoint exactly why, but in the garden, "less is more" when it comes to track, which tends to be somewhat opposite of many small scale track plans. The plants, rocks, and other landscaping elements take up a fair amount of space, so having every last inch covered with track leaves little room for the garden aspect.

As for control of the live steam locos, both methods (manual and R/C) have their merits. If you're going to have your railroad on the ground, then you'll want R/C. Manual control for the most part necessitates being able to quickly and easily reach the controls. That is unless you enjoy sprinting full speed after your loco after it crests the hill and heads down a 4% grade, only to pick the point of a switch bending it completely backwards, then going airborne and spinning spectacularly into the side of a station. (Thankfully, I was merely a spectator to this event, though I've never run a manually controlled steamer on anything but a level, elevated railroad since. Some lessons are easily learned through observation.)

Post some photos of your portable track. That sounds cool!

Later,

K

[wheelman]

Thanks to all for the welcome.

It is true that RTS Freeware does not have suitable templates for my use, but flex track can be used in stead. What I do is to create custom track sections and paste a selection of them outside the work area. For each plan, I draw a rectangle of suitable size, then assemble sections into something to start with, then rearrange until the result makes sense. Then I save and print a hard copy for later study.

Having built an N scale layout, I am familiar with the need to allow space for scenery, structures, and other features.With each track plan printout, I sketch in pencil the various prospective features, then return if necessary to revise the original. Hopefully this process will eventually result in a track plan I can use. How much to elevate my track is not yet decided. Guess a compromise between comfort and cost will be necssary.

Meanwhile I have posted a photo of the test track in the Gallery under the name 'The Teacart'.

[Independent Operator]

Welcome to the forum and to the world of G Gauge.  It's always been a learning experience for me.  I've made so many dumb mistakes since 2005 that I could write a book about them.  Never assume or put money on anthing until you try it out or ask questions.  I spent a small fortune on fixing my mistakes.

[TJ Lee]

Welcome to the forum!

Best,

TJ

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