Been working on my layout based on the NYCHRR of the 1880s. I am using Model Power NYCHRR 4-4-0 which require the throttle to be set at 90%+.
As a result, since this viaduct is still in use today, I pre-ordered a Concor NYC Box Cab electric to replace the Model Power 4-4-0, and then expanded construction beyond the viaduct. Hoping to use the new KATO 20th Century Limited Diesels and Cars, but have not figured out how to incorporate them into it yet, since those engines did not use the viaduct.
Here is a photo of my layout construction as well as a vintage lithograph of the modeled area in NYC from the 1870s/80s:
Interesting project. Some railroaders make a lot of compromises when it comes to equipment and era. I have a "generic" layout that spans from the 1930s to the 1960s, depending on the equipment I choose to run.
Simon
I am going to have to make my first compromise.
The Model Power 4-4-0s, have a really hard time pulling even 1-3 passenger cars.
It got to the point where sometimes they would work and then just plain couldnt do it.
Thus, instead of the turn of the century I will be theme it the 1930s-1940s. Mostly Diesel and Electric (pre-ordered), as that viaduct is still in use today. Might even add Amtrak and swap the NYC and Amtrak to the hidden staging for either time period (40s/Modern). Sure wish there was Metro North in N, might just have to stick with modern Amtrak and Metra, as the other side of the layout will be Union Station Chicago.
Conversely, all of my KATO engines pull effortlessly.
First off Model Power were never veiwed as a top line company period and their 1800's stuff was some of the worse.
Found that out the hard way.
Been going 100% KATO since.