QUOTE: Originally posted by warhammerdriver 1) I had drawn up a track plan for a 4x8 layout to learn track laying and wiring. Then I was going to build a 12' dog bone ... Should I scrap the 4x8 plan and jump right into the 12 footer?
QUOTE: 2) What would be the smallest layout you would recommend installing a DCC system in?
QUOTE: 3) Is DCC really necessary for a layout designed to be operated by a maximum of 2 people, most often operated by only one person?
QUOTE: Originally posted by warhammerdriver I've been lurking here for about a week and now have more questions than ever before! Please forgive me if they've been asked before, but sifting thru 150 pages of posts and threads is not my idea of fun. [:D]
QUOTE: 1) I had drawn up a track plan for a 4x8 layout to learn track laying and wiring. Then I was going to build a 12' dog bone layout based on the layout in Small railroads you can build (edited by Bob Hayden). Should I scrap the 4x8 plan and jump right into the 12 footer?
QUOTE: I downloaded xtrackcad (sp) and will re-do my 12' dogbone and upload the plan. Thanks in advance.
QUOTE: Originally posted by selector Make sure you can easily reach into any part of the layout to recover derailed rolling stock and locos. If you are reaching further than about 30", you are asking for trouble...broken something, or toppled table? And, if you think that might be tough, wait until you have to repair a switch reaching that far!
QUOTE: I can't emphasize how important DCC is for someone who wants to run more than one locomotive on his/her layout at the same time...on the same track. DC needs some complicated wiring to do that, and you will never get all the capabilities of DCC. If you can bring yourself to spend an extra $150-$200, you can get a loco with sound built in AND a decent DCC starter system for a controller.
Marlon
See pictures of the Clinton-Golden Valley RR
QUOTE: Originally posted by warhammerdriver Based on this new development, I'm gonna go ahead and set up the 4x8. The plan calls for only 3 blocks in DC, one's a siding, one's 90% of the main, and the third is the interchange track/mini-yard/loco servicing area. Plus I have 99% of the materials "in stock". All I need are the three switches for the block control.