Layout blues

[Anonymous]

I am a novice building an HO gauge set with my son. We are stuck with our layout, which only works when certain switches are set.
I have already changed the layout considerably from the first attempt/s, when I didn't understand the polarity issues.
Seems that the more we learn the more trouble we get into!
If anyone would be kind enough to respond, I can email a BMP or other file type of the layout for comment.

[Anonymous]

Think of your layout as alight circuit ,with one rail as being positive+[black wire] and the other rail aS BEING negative -[ white wire] then any where there is a change make sure there not a short. get a cheap volt/ ohm meter hope this will help.JAD

[Anonymous]

Go to your local model railroad store and buy Kalmbach Publishing's book "Basic Wiring for Model Railroaders". They also publish a more advanced book entitled "Easy Model Railroad Wiring".

Also check your area for a model railroad club, They would probably be glad to help you out.

[Anonymous]

Send me the bmp and and as much detail as you can muster (types of turnouts, how you wierd everything etc) to [e-mail] and I'll see what I can do to help you. (maybe even send you a free book)

[Anonymous]

I Just want to say to Paul,Wow!! That is going above and beyond the call of duty.Thats why i like this Forum.Everyone really does try to help.
I salute you Paul, You are a Stand Up Guy.
Merry Christmas!!!!!

[emdgp92]

I used those books to wire up my layout. I found them easy to understand.

Here's another tip for ya. After each change you make, turn on the power, and run a locomotive or two. If it doesn't run, the problem can usually be found in the change you just made.