What would you not do again if you started over knowing what you know now?

[da_kraut]

Motley

5.) Must have Kadee couplers!

 

Kadee couplers and steel wheels, incredible how much of a difference such small items make.

Frank

[PASMITH]

Knowing now that this thread started back in August of 2009, I would not not go back to the first post and start reading it again. Peter Smith, Memphis

[Hamltnblue]

 LOL, True

Also I'd always read before buying anything.  I have lots of stuff I probably wouldn't have picked up if I read the forums first.

[SpaceMouse]

If you are want a good looking-layout, EZ Track isn't easy.

Don't put turnouts in tunnels.

It's easier to spend a night on the couch than it is to walk away from a loco you need when it is on sale.

Plan, Plan, research and plan.

You never have too much staging.

Don't drink Bear Wiz Beer.

[Anonymous]

 Here is an odd one:

I would not start developing a track plan without having a fairly precise view on the scenery I want to have!

When planning a layout, we mostly think in terms of track and operation, less in scenery and appearance. As long as we are happy with having a Plywood Pacific RR, it is perfectly fine, but if we go for something more delicate, just filling the space between the tracks is not enough.

[SpaceMouse]

Sir Madog

 Here is an odd one:

I would not start developing a track plan without having a fairly precise view on the scenery I want to have!

When planning a layout, we mostly think in terms of track and operation, less in scenery and appearance. As long as we are happy with having a Plywood Pacific RR, it is perfectly fine, but if we go for something more delicate, just filling the space between the tracks is not enough.

 

Yes! 

And streets and parking for employees and access for truck deliveries.

 

[johncolley]

At my age (72) I would definitely not undertake a large layout project that severely strains my reduced income. Also, I would not build a maintenance nightmare that causes me to spend more time cleaning track than running trains! I have learned the hard way that rather than the above headaches it is better for me to join operating groups and run on other people's layouts. I will just make a simple layout that I can manage and program equipment on. On the plus side, I am a devout believer in metal wheelsets and KD couplers on all rolling stock! And I have learned that having sound helps me to operate prototypically with compliance to speeds and bell/whistle signals. John

[widetrack]

Lets see, as I sit here comtemplating my upcoming move in about six or seven months or so, I have already decided to stay in HO. However there will be no duckunders or benchwork wider than my arm is long! Now it I had the money and more importantly the space I would go to a larger scale. For the simple reason that it is easier on the eyes when working on things, those of you who look over the tops of your glasses know what I am talking about here, LOL don't deny it you know you do!   Neil     

[UP 4-12-2]

Steam power--I've decided to just leave it to the history books.

I do enjoy it, but some of the diesels are so inexpensive by comparison, and cost, for me, is now an issue.

So I'm dieselizing in the hopes of raising some needed cash.

John