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Other Than Locos or Rolling Stock What Would You Like to See be Made

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Posted by DSchmitt on Saturday, September 23, 2017 4:03 PM

riogrande5761

 

 
chutton01

Forget vehicles of the '70s and '80s, I need HO vehicles from the '90s till today.

 

Atlas makes vehicles in your time frame.

But what we really need is 1970s cars and pickups for all those open auto racks from Accurail and Athearn Genesis, the latter just hit the shelves.  You 90s and latter guys have fully eclosed auto racks ahem so us 70s guys need common cars and pickups way more.

 

Printed inserts for enclosed auto racks N ans HO

https://www.digcomdesigns.net/

 

I tried to sell my two cents worth, but no one would give me a plug nickel for it.

I don't have a leg to stand on.

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Posted by riogrande5761 on Saturday, September 23, 2017 3:31 PM

chutton01

Forget vehicles of the '70s and '80s, I need HO vehicles from the '90s till today.

Atlas makes vehicles in your time frame.

But what we really need is 1970s cars and pickups for all those open auto racks from Accurail and Athearn Genesis, the latter just hit the shelves.  You 90s and latter guys have fully eclosed auto racks ahem so us 70s guys need common cars and pickups way more.

Rio Grande.  The Action Road  - Focus 1977-1983

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Posted by angelob6660 on Saturday, September 23, 2017 2:35 PM

An Amtrak style station, vehicles in the 1940- 1990s more variety than trucks. More semi trailers than railroad names. Traffic lights, parking lot lights.

Bring back the BLMA signals, billboards, etc that we all miss.

All N.

Modeling the G.N.O. Railway, The Diamond Route.

Amtrak America, 1971-Present.

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Posted by Catt on Saturday, September 23, 2017 12:27 PM

Two items from specific companies.First one is Walthers offering all of their HO building kits in N scale.Second is Woodland Scenics adding the DPM HO modulars to the N scale line.

One for any vehicle manufacturer would be a much larger variety of late 1940's to the present day cars and trucks in all the usual scales.

Johnathan(Catt) Edwards 100 % Michigan Made
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Posted by superbe on Saturday, September 23, 2017 11:40 AM

7j43k

 

 
superbe

 

I still think in the track uncoupling should be possible ala Lionel's method. 

 

 

 

 

Something like this?:

 

 

If you want, you can add a round red button and pretty much recreate the Lionel.

 

Ed 

Ed,

I'm familiar with that method. With Lionel it was a piece of sectional track wired for the purpose. No cutting a hole on the layout, just snap it in place and run the control wire to the facia.

Installing the under track system is too much like work.  Big Smile

Thanks for your reply.

Bob

 

 

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Posted by BRAKIE on Saturday, September 23, 2017 11:31 AM

Simple list.

Normal every day cars and trucks for the 70s,80s and 90s time period.

Back saver switch stands.

Working derail for industrial sidings.

Larry

Conductor.

Summerset Ry.


"Stay Alert, Don't get hurt  Safety First!"

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Posted by 7j43k on Saturday, September 23, 2017 11:24 AM

superbe

 

I still think in the track uncoupling should be possible ala Lionel's method.

      

 

 

 

When you say "in the track uncoupling", I'm assuming you mean that you want a 9" long straight section of track with an electro-magnetic uncoupler that does not project below the bottom of the ties.  Like the classic Lionel UCS:

 

  Or perhaps, as with Kato track, not below the bottom of the ballast.  That looks a bit tricky in HO, but maybe........

But of you're not requiring the "flat bottom", Kadee DOES make an electro-magnetic uncoupling ramp.  But ya gotta cut a hole in the plywood.  Which isn't as hard as it looks:

 

 

Ed

 

 

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Posted by 7j43k on Saturday, September 23, 2017 11:20 AM

I will endorse Mister Beasley's crossing gate views.

I'm working on a module with a street that crosses the tracks.  Being Free-mo, the crossing is about a foot away from the viewer.

I would like a crossing gate that is as good as the BLMA signals I've been installing.  Which means just about perfect.  I want the gates to go down smoothly and properly.  I don't want a little arm sticking up from below.  I want the FOUR flasher heads per signal to be scale size.  And I want proper lights on the gates--that flash or not as appropriate.  Also (close to) scale size.

Electronics I can deal with on my own.

And, as I've said before, I'd pay big bucks for one.  Being as I only need one.  Pair.

 

Ed

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Posted by Water Level Route on Saturday, September 23, 2017 10:50 AM

Ready to run 1930's, & 40's vehicles. Maybe the 20's too now with Jordan out of business. 

Mike

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Posted by BobL609 on Saturday, September 23, 2017 10:35 AM

1940-50's fire engines.  My fire station seems kinda barren at the moment.

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Posted by superbe on Saturday, September 23, 2017 10:31 AM

 

Form my childhood days with my Lionel trains, I miss having the operating log loader and coal tower with operating cars that unloaded as well using a special piece of track It could uncouple cars as well with the push of a button. I also had a crane with a magnet. No doubt with today’s manufacturing capabilities they could be made to look more prototypical. 

 

I still think in the track uncoupling should be possible ala Lionel's method.

Just my  worth.

Bob

      

 

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Posted by csxns on Saturday, September 23, 2017 10:14 AM

Paul3
realistic wireless DCC throttle

I like to have a realistic wireless DC throttle made my MRC made by MRC i know it will be a good one.

Russell

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Posted by trevorsmith3489 on Saturday, September 23, 2017 10:06 AM

A few HO detail items for a representation of modern Florida;

  • golf carts
  • airboats
  • alligators
  • modern SUV road vehicles
  • derailers
  • switch stands with "backsaver" levers
  • signals (BLMA versions seem to have disappeared?)

Trevor

 

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Posted by andrechapelon on Saturday, September 23, 2017 9:27 AM

NVSRR

There is a good number here in philadelphia.  They recently got new ones

Wolfie

 

 

Yup. Besides San Francisco, Boston and Philadelphia, Seattle and Dayton have functioning trolleybus systems.

 

Andre

It's really kind of hard to support your local hobby shop when the nearest hobby shop that's worth the name is a 150 mile roundtrip.
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Posted by MisterBeasley on Saturday, September 23, 2017 8:41 AM

I put together a working crossing gate system, but I had to go to three different manufacturers to get all the components.  It ended up working pretty well, but it turned out to be quite a project and it definitely took a lot of experience to figure it all out.

There are some toy-like grade crossings, but that's not what most of us are looking for.

So, a crossing gate system where all the components come in one box and all play together right out of the box.

I've got all the subway trains I need, but few are in production.  It would be nice to see some from systems other than NYC, too.

It takes an iron man to play with a toy iron horse. 

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Posted by NVSRR on Saturday, September 23, 2017 7:50 AM

I agree.  We need more conveyors and support equipment. Not just coal mines.    

I would like to see more kit systems like Dpm. And what walthers had

 

Wolfies

A pessimist sees a dark tunnel

An optimist sees the light at the end of the tunnel

A realist sees a frieght train

An engineer sees three idiots standing on the tracks stairing blankly in space

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Posted by NVSRR on Saturday, September 23, 2017 7:44 AM

gmpullman

Just thought of something else... can I make more than one requestGeeked

How about a truly "integrated" signal system. One where I can source all the needed hardware from one supplier and add-on or customize the system as the layout grows or as my operating plan expands.

I have lots of Signal Animators from Logicrail and they work great for what they are but you have to find signals from other vendors (hit-or-miss, at best) and some are common anode, some common cathode, often you need different resistors on each of the LED colors.

I'd like to see more of a "plug-and-play" setup that can easily be integrated into a detection system and possibly JMRI. I'm aware of different manufacturers offering boards ov varying styles but I'd like to be able to work with a "Package Deal" including a reliable way to plug the signals into a easy to wire mounting pad.

If I recall Atlas began something of this sort some years ago but didn't seem to get much support.

My 2 Cents  My 2 Cents  Ed

 

 

integrated signal system.  He will build signals for any era.   With all the propper electronics to support it as a complete prototype operating system.  

A pessimist sees a dark tunnel

An optimist sees the light at the end of the tunnel

A realist sees a frieght train

An engineer sees three idiots standing on the tracks stairing blankly in space

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Posted by BigDaddy on Saturday, September 23, 2017 7:41 AM

LensCapOn
Coupler springs that don't spring away going Weeeeee! at the first attempt to install.

Get a needle and thread and run it down the center of the spring.  I use a piece of thread about 6", only so the thread doesn't come of the needle.  You want the spring down at the other end, with only an inch or two sticking out.

It makes maneuvering the spring a little different, but the spring never leaves the table. You might think pulling the thread after installation would dislodge the spring, but so far I haven't had that happen.

Henry

COB Potomac & Northern

Shenandoah Valley

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Posted by NVSRR on Saturday, September 23, 2017 7:35 AM

There is a good number here in philadelphia.  They recently got new ones

Wolfie

A pessimist sees a dark tunnel

An optimist sees the light at the end of the tunnel

A realist sees a frieght train

An engineer sees three idiots standing on the tracks stairing blankly in space

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Posted by ATLANTIC CENTRAL on Saturday, September 23, 2017 6:20 AM

andrechapelon

Actually, Sheldon, trolley buses are still being used in San Francisco.

https://www.sfmta.com/about-sfmta/our-history-and-fleet/sfmta-fleet/muni-trolley-electric-coaches

And Boston, although it appears that these are diesel-electric hybrids similar in idea to New Haven's FL9's.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=P5ZXi2gdHSI

Andre

 

 

Yes, I am aware that there are still a few still running here in the US.

Sheldon

    

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Posted by andrechapelon on Friday, September 22, 2017 11:32 PM

Actually, Sheldon, trolley buses are still being used in San Francisco.

https://www.sfmta.com/about-sfmta/our-history-and-fleet/sfmta-fleet/muni-trolley-electric-coaches

And Boston, although it appears that these are diesel-electric hybrids similar in idea to New Haven's FL9's.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=P5ZXi2gdHSI

Andre

 

It's really kind of hard to support your local hobby shop when the nearest hobby shop that's worth the name is a 150 mile roundtrip.
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Posted by G Paine on Friday, September 22, 2017 10:38 PM

Some more vehicles for the 50s & 60s

Nash Metropolitan
Jeepster (50s, not 70s version)
Jeep wagon (Wiking made one, but has not been avaiable for years)
Corvair
Ford Hideaway hardtop (maybe with the top that retracts?)


George In Midcoast Maine, 'bout halfway up the Rockland branch 

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Posted by gmpullman on Friday, September 22, 2017 10:29 PM

Paul3
I would like to have a realistic wireless DCC throttle for retail sale...

What I want is to recreate the experience of actually running a real locomotive, and not operating a cell phone or a calculator.

I'll second that request, Paul Yes

Are you familiar with the Iowa Scaled Engineering project, Paul?

http://model-railroad-hobbyist.com/node/25866

I hope I'm around long enough to get to play with one of these. There was a bit of discussion about realistic throttles here some time ago.

http://cs.trains.com/mrr/f/744/p/254524/2846858.aspx

 

[edit] If you go to the YouTube site there are a couple more videos by Scott Thornton of the Proto-Throttle.

Good Luck, Ed

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Posted by Paul3 on Friday, September 22, 2017 10:06 PM

I would like to have a realistic wireless DCC throttle for retail sale (hopefully for Loconet).  Yes, I know of the one custom made out of a Digitrax UT4R, but something professional would be nice.  It would have an 8-notch throttle, train brakes, independant brakes, dynamic brakes (all adjustable on the throttle), headlights, rear lights, horn, bell, and DCC address selector.  Adjustable momentum on the throttle would be nice, too.  What I want is to recreate the experience of actually running a real locomotive, and not operating a cell phone or a calculator.

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Posted by ATLANTIC CENTRAL on Friday, September 22, 2017 10:05 PM

gmpullman

Just thought of something else... can I make more than one requestGeeked

How about a truly "integrated" signal system. One where I can source all the needed hardware from one supplier and add-on or customize the system as the layout grows or as my operating plan expands.

I have lots of Signal Animators from Logicrail and they work great for what they are but you have to find signals from other vendors (hit-or-miss, at best) and some are common anode, some common cathode, often you need different resistors on each of the LED colors.

I'd like to see more of a "plug-and-play" setup that can easily be integrated into a detection system and possibly JMRI. I'm aware of different manufacturers offering boards ov varying styles but I'd like to be able to work with a "Package Deal" including a reliable way to plug the signals into a easy to wire mounting pad.

If I recall Atlas began something of this sort some years ago but didn't seem to get much support.

My 2 Cents  My 2 Cents  Ed

 

The Atlas signal system was way too expensive, and if I recall did not offer transition era or older signals - both it seems would be a death spell.

True signaling is so complex it is hard to make it "plug and play".

I found it much easier to eliminate "block" signals and only model interlocking signals - a suggestion made decades ago by a number of experianced modelers from those decades past.

I found it rather easy to use relays and inductive detectors to accrately model interlocking or "home" signals, skipping over open country permissive block signals.

I also only model some "yellow" aspects. 

Even on large layouts, the distances between interlockings simply does not justify too much complexity.

I install "approach" signals half way between interlockings, which give a "block signal" appearance but actually are just repeating the infor on the signal at the next interlocking - makes wiring easier, and gives operators only the info they need.

Detection and turnout position control each signal, signals do not go green until CTC disaptcher clears the next block.

Sheldon

    

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Posted by gmpullman on Friday, September 22, 2017 9:09 PM

Just thought of something else... can I make more than one requestGeeked

How about a truly "integrated" signal system. One where I can source all the needed hardware from one supplier and add-on or customize the system as the layout grows or as my operating plan expands.

I have lots of Signal Animators from Logicrail and they work great for what they are but you have to find signals from other vendors (hit-or-miss, at best) and some are common anode, some common cathode, often you need different resistors on each of the LED colors.

I'd like to see more of a "plug-and-play" setup that can easily be integrated into a detection system and possibly JMRI. I'm aware of different manufacturers offering boards ov varying styles but I'd like to be able to work with a "Package Deal" including a reliable way to plug the signals into a easy to wire mounting pad.

If I recall Atlas began something of this sort some years ago but didn't seem to get much support.

My 2 Cents  My 2 Cents  Ed

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Posted by oldline1 on Friday, September 22, 2017 8:51 PM

As a Western Maryland Ry fan and fan of all coal mining I would like to see details suitable for coal mines like the coal loading convetor belts and the equipment to support them. Lots of details would be usable for other industries too.

I agree with a detailed basic boiler being built or worked on in a shop would be a good thing.

More coal mine models would be nice. Perhaps a modular type that could be expanded and changed into various shapes and sizes.

oldline1

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Posted by KemacPrr on Friday, September 22, 2017 8:02 PM

A bulk trailer !!!  Good for the late 50's on. Second on the bi/tri level auto loads. Cars with no hub caps diferent colors and maybe even station wagon styles. --  Ken 

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Posted by ATLANTIC CENTRAL on Friday, September 22, 2017 7:47 PM

I would like to see a revised working HO scale trolley bus system like Brawa once made.

Trolley buses were short lived in the US, but saw limited use in nearly every major US city at the end of the street car era. With the transition era still one of the most popular with modelers, a nice trolley bus system might do well for some manufacturer.

Sheldon

    

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Posted by groundeffects on Friday, September 22, 2017 7:34 PM

I'd like to see at least half of the building and landscape detail parts made for HO also be made available in N scale.  It would be nice to see N scale building kits with a greater variety of architectural styles (especially those found on the west coast).  I'd love to see some N scale kits such as the spanish/mission revival style train stations that the Espee built, such as those seen in the California Central Valley (Modesto, CA)and the LA Basin (Glendale, CA). 

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