What next?

[Anonymous]

Ok I built two 4x8 sections of benchwork I plan on making a L pattern.I have 2'' foam on top.What next? Buy track? If so what is the best kind . I like code 83. Should I start to buy MRR tools if so what is a good set to start out with.Should I start to look for a dcc unit if so what is a good brand for my layout I plan on having about 4 or 5 loco's that I would like to run. I would like to have power turnouts under my mountian and all the rest manual I like the ones from the hump yard.If you guys can thyink of anything else I
would like it.I'm going to be using this forum alout so please be kind

Thanks Barent

[egmurphy]

QUOTE: Should I start to buy MRR tools if so what is a good set to start out with?

I can't help too much with recommendations on HO track or DCC, but I can make a few suggestions on mrr tools that you will find useful. You'll eventually collect a lot, but here are some of the more basic ones that you need to start accumulating:

set of misc small pliers
set of jewelers screwdrivers
set of jewelers files
tweezers (a set of different ones, if possible)
scale rule
set of xacto knives (I'd recommend the wood boxed set with three different sized handles and an assortment of blades - but to start at least get one handle and a bunch of #11 blades)
Razor saw (w/ miter box, if possible)
pin vise and some small drill bits
small pencil soldering iron
NMRA track guage
sprue cutter (optional - I like it)
Xuron (or other make) rail cutter (use it only to cut rail)


I'm sure you'll get some other suggestions.

Welcome to the forum.

Just a suggestion on posting. If you have a bunch of different questions it may help to break them up into separate posts (maybe including similar questions in the same post) and giving it a title more descriptive of the info you're looking for.

Good luck with the layout. I wish I had that much space!

Regards

Ed

[Anonymous]

I would go with Atlas track, and Peco turnouts. Can't say much for DCC, except I plan on getting a Digitrax Zephyr once my track is done. Most locomotives are fine, but the Local Hobby Shop told me to stay away from Bachmann. Also, what type of locomotive do you plan on using? For your track, go with the largest radius curves you can fit, as most 6 axle power will look unrealistic, and can cause derailments on the common 18". Try going with a 22" or 24", if you want to use longer equipment.
Morgan

[grayfox1119]

There are many good books on model RR available. They can answer a host of questions, anywhere from construction of the tables, DCC, DC, scenery, track guage, tools needed. Kalmbach Publishing is one such vendor of MRR books. Woodland Scenics, who make all sorts of scenery from foam, have excellent videos and instruction manuals on building a layout using foam, and how to lay track on foam.
There is so much info on the enet, that you will go crazy trying to sift through it all.
And of course as you know already, forums, such as this one, where you have modelers of every age and experience.
Welcome and good luck with your layout Barent,

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