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Well, gentlemen.....It's been about 24 hours now.....I went from knowing absolutely nothing to knowing something......let me give you an update.....I went to a wonderful privately owned shop called the Iron Horse in Reading. I strongly recommend visiting there sometime. It is very reminiscent of old time shops. I felt like I stepped back in time....much better then going to Hobbytown...which I've been in but left knowing absolutely nothing. Anyway, so I spent a good hour and a half there with one of the owners (I believe). I was able to use much of the lingo....and I got to see first hand what was meant by tracking codes.....and I learned about layouts and flexitrack (I believe that's what it was called....) Absolutely fascinating! I left there having learned about different font styles on the sides of cars.....I know what is acceptable for the transition period....which sorry Keith! Your sticking to transition because it truly is the best of both worlds! (I'm assuming he will read this the day after Christmas....) Anyway, I did leave with a little less in my in my check book.......however here is what I started with.... 1. track - Bachman code 83 - yep definitely prefer that to 100....although he had to explain why it was more realistic at first....I didn't quite get it at first but well....I remembered the 100 code from when I was little....grandpa had it.....I did check to see if I could purchase adaptors for tracks...because I believe I have some tracks down in the cellar of my parents house that they aren't using.....but for 80 cents a piece of track I'm far from concerned. 2. I did purchase the Tech 4 MRC 220. He didn't have the 200 in stock however I didn't worry about it since it would have only been 10 dollars cheaper. I did opt for putting off the DCC controller for now. I'm under the impression that the MRC 220 I can use in the future for lighting buildings, lamp posts, etc....so no loss for purchasing it. I'll by a DCC controller in the future when we have multiple trains and layout set up. For now there really is no need. 3. I bought two box cars. Athearn series. 40' box car-superior door #18065 and #18018 item numbers 70331 and 70332 - definitely nice detail - not cheap looking but yet inexpensive! I couldn't let it go. 4. I don't remember what this one is called - the plug that goes into the track - that is invisible if you have it come up under a layout - I saw the old form that used to actually be part of track that really ruined the effect - but that's again what I remember Grandpop having - all I know is that it runs from the track to the power supply - what's that called? So that's what I bought....I know I"m missing the important part - the locomotive but I have some good ideas now. I really would like to get Keith The Reading 4-8-4 T1 coming out.....however I was thinking that can be for a later occasion since it's not quite out.....oh by the way, it's going to be at Iron Horse for $359 when it gets there... anyone find any better deals out there yet? However, here’s where I'm thinking about going and I need a couple reactions. They had an engine there Atlas Master Series Item #7727 Reading Phase 2 - Road #862. It had everything - or so it seemed....very nice detail and was what I thought to be reasonable for $209. I don't know where to go to find it reasonably online but what are your impressions. After taking up so much time from such a wonderful helpful gentleman in the store I really would rather purchase it there if I get the go ahead from all you pros. :-) What do you think of the quality? More potentials - I only have two box cars thus far....I saw a 3 pack of side hoppers there - made by atlas - item #1107 - they looked nice but didn't have loads - I really much rather them be carrying something! No worries though the gentleman said that I can get loads for $8 a pair. ($4 a piece) how's that sound guys? again...how's the quality? second to last question - Walthers 46" USRA Gondola - Reading #23035 - looks like very nice detail as well - 2 pack - 932-27461 - should I be buying a certain number of box cars, hoppers, gondolas, what will be too much for my 62" long track....I don't know what will look ridiculous at this point. Last question - I want a caboose (This is for me more then Keith.....he can have the rest of the train - The caboose is mine.....) they had none in stock but does anyone know where I can order one.....he said one authentic to the transition period would be red with white lettering....not the yellow and green one he had.....and like I said....I'm going for authenticity here.... well, is that enough to throw at you??? That's where I currently am. For now I'll stop and see what everyone has to offer me now. Be honest - tell me what you think of my purchases, if I’ve been incorrect in saying things, etc....I want to learn as much as I can. Thanks all!
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