Thanks all for the responses. I just recovered from a mild stomach bug and back to checking things online.
Randy: I would hate to have you drive 3-24 hrs to visit me. I live close to Leesburg, VA. I will soon send you a PM for us to talk privately. Thanks for the kind offer.
I haven't seen any of the newer wiring books, but the old Kalmbach one by Linn Westcott as well as his diagrams in older issues of the magazine or in the older project compilation books, or even "HO Railroad That Grows" usually show two-cab wiring with all pictorial diagrams rather than schematics - a picture of the toggle switches, the wires leading from them, and all that. No interpretation needed, just follow the wires, usually done with varied shading (since color printing wasn't in their budget at the time).
Try finding one of those older books - the readability of the wiring diagrams is very helpful, plus the text explanations are kept short and to the point - just follow the pictures. A basic 2 cab system is exactly what you are looking for. If you can;t find one of the old books (most of them are long out of print - but a library might have them), pony up for the All Access Pass and find the same information in MR articles from the early 50's. You can print off articles of interest.
I'd gladly drop by and get you started but depending on where in NoVa you are it's probably 3-4 hours drive.
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.
The Broadway Lion diagrams may make himself feel good, but they have nothing to do with the original poster's needs.
BL's subway trains don't operate independently, can't back-up, and don't change speeds except in stations. Posting this as an answer to a newcomer's question on traditional DC block wiring is only confusing, IMHO.
Layout Design GalleryLayout Design Special Interest Group
Bring some nice rare wildebeest, and the LION will be happy to help you all day long.
Click on diagrams to enlarge.
ROAR
The Route of the Broadway Lion The Largest Subway Layout in North Dakota.
Here there be cats. LIONS with CAMERAS
Hi Kass,
Check your messages on this server,
Regards from Australia
Trevor
All,
Can someone pls offer to assist me on my layout? I've had fantastic success from a generous and accomplished modeler who, sadly, unable to visit my basement layout. He tried to connect me with the local NMRA group, but no one was willing to help with the DC wiring.
I appreciate the discussions about using DCC, but given that I have limited funds and being my 1st layout, I want to use DC. Is there someone, anyone, who is willing to speak with me or even visit to help? Specifically, I need assistance wiring for tortoise switch machines and having two consists operate independently on the DC-functioning layout. Sending me electronic resoures is far less useful than being able to talk through the issues with someone well-versed in wiring. Wiring is the most challenging aspect of this hobby for me. Even with two books on it, I prefer ballasting, research, scenery, etc. over wiring. I'll offer to do any favor I can do any MR-related favor in my power in exchange for someone's time.
Any interested parties can pls shoot me a private note or reply here.
Thanks for reading this note. Have a safe and restful holiday season!