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The "N" Crowd Locked

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  • Member since
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  • From: Holland MI
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Posted by CSXFan on Wednesday, January 10, 2007 9:22 PM
 Dave Vollmer wrote:
 CSXFan wrote:

Question for Dave Vollmer (againBig Smile [:D])

Sorry I keep on bugging you, but your layout continues to inspire me as I go along. Anyway, I noticed the curves on you layout are superelevated. I went to your website and saw that you used 0.010" and 0.020" styrene for this. How did this work for you? Should I put the styrene under the roadbed or track? Thanks. 

It worked OK...  I would use cork instead of foam roadbed next time because the foam is soft and "absorbs" the shims to a certain extent.  I glued the styrene shims directly to the underside of the ties.  Hope this helps!

Yes that helps a lot. Thanks again! 

If you're not living on the edge, you're taking up too much space...Wink
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Posted by nscaler711 on Wednesday, January 10, 2007 10:41 PM
thats al right i do it all the timeBig Smile [:D]

Army National Guard E3
MOS 91B

I have multiple scales now
Z, N, HO, O, and G.  

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Posted by trainfreek92 on Thursday, January 11, 2007 6:20 PM
Phillip, thanxs for your time! I am not looking to buy and books you sent me a site earlier this year that had a lot about the MEC but its not one your list? Thanxs again Tim.
Running New England trains on The Maple Lead & Pine Tree Central RR from the late 50's to the early 80's in N scale
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Posted by oleirish on Thursday, January 11, 2007 8:55 PM

For the "N" gang! I would like to know if a person could use "BRASSO" for cleaning "N" rails??

Thanks

JIM

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Posted by pcarrell on Thursday, January 11, 2007 9:00 PM
 trainfreek92 wrote:
Phillip, thanxs for your time! I am not looking to buy and books you sent me a site earlier this year that had a lot about the MEC but its not one your list? Thanxs again Tim.


I can't think of what that site was. Any hints?
Philip
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Posted by trainfreek92 on Thursday, January 11, 2007 9:04 PM
 andrechapelon wrote:

 trainfreek92 wrote:
Pcarrel, thats ok i see were you could go wrong. Anway does anyone no any good sites for Maine Central? Im most intrested in the Mountain division. Tim

Try here: http://mywebpages.comcast.net/mikemcnh/flatcar/mec.html

And here: http://www.thebluecomet.com/mecmountain.html

This would probably help: http://home.comcast.net/~railimages/SLIDE-LIST/MEC.htm

N scale double deck plan: http://www.falken.net/dave/layout/nplan.html

 Then there's Iain Rice's Mid-Sized and Manageable layout book with an N scale plan for the Mountain Dvision. It's large, but you don't have to use the whole thing. Most of the plan consists of Portland Union Station and Rigby Yard. The actual Mountain Division trackage is a pretty small part.

Andre

 

Thanxs Andre.  I have designed myself a plan, its not really realsitic it is 3 36x84 doors. I have Rigby yard (just a name its doesnt look at all like it) a double track mainline that has a grade on part of it im including the saco river in my plan. A town along the line in New Hampshire (not sure of the name yet) And St. Johnsberry. (again just a name) I desgined this layout so it would give me operation, I also have a feed dealer spur, meat packers (based on swift prototype) a creamery and maybe a few others in the yard. Happy Modeling.

Running New England trains on The Maple Lead & Pine Tree Central RR from the late 50's to the early 80's in N scale
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Posted by Dave Vollmer on Thursday, January 11, 2007 9:27 PM
 oleirish wrote:

For the "N" gang! I would like to know if a person could use "BRASSO" for cleaning "N" rails??

Thanks

JIM

I wouldn't...  I've used Brasso on military accoutrements and it tends to leave a film.  I don't know if that film is non-conductive or not, but it's a little greasy so might interfere with traction as well.

Modeling the Rio Grande Southern First District circa 1938-1946 in HOn3.

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Posted by Dave Vollmer on Friday, January 12, 2007 9:26 AM

Yay!  My first hard-wired DCC decoder install!  The PRR H10 project is almost complete.  All that remains is decaling the road number on the engineer's side, some weathering, and Dullcote.

Pictures will be forthcoming.  Here's a sneak preview:

Modeling the Rio Grande Southern First District circa 1938-1946 in HOn3.

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Posted by MAbruce on Friday, January 12, 2007 10:19 AM
 oleirish wrote:
For the "N" gang! I would like to know if a person could use "BRASSO" for cleaning "N" rails??

Thanks

JIM

Not sure about BRASSO, but I use MAAS and it works like a charm.  Other have used FLITZ, but I could never locate it and used MAAS instead.   

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Posted by oleirish on Friday, January 12, 2007 10:37 AM

Thanks for info,I've used Brasso for years while in the milltary,I did'nt think I could use it for the rails.but throught I'ed ask??

JIM

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  • From: Regina, Saskatchewan
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Posted by CanadianShield on Friday, January 12, 2007 10:49 AM

 Dave,

Why are you considering changing eras, when you do such a beautiful job of modelling the transition period? Every once in a while I wanna get rid of my C-Liners and 4-6-2 Pacifics in Maroon and grey and update to dcc ready sd40s, but then I realize in the long run making myself model the transition will allow me to have a unique layout as a lot of things are kitbashed or it will be rare to have 50% steam in n scale with DCC, Rare and painful at times but 100% worth the effort in the long run!

Canadian Shield

Canadian Shield
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Posted by Dave Vollmer on Friday, January 12, 2007 11:01 AM
 CanadianShield wrote:

 Dave,

Why are you considering changing eras, when you do such a beautiful job of modelling the transition period? Every once in a while I wanna get rid of my C-Liners and 4-6-2 Pacifics in Maroon and grey and update to dcc ready sd40s, but then I realize in the long run making myself model the transition will allow me to have a unique layout as a lot of things are kitbashed or it will be rare to have 50% steam in n scale with DCC, Rare and painful at times but 100% worth the effort in the long run!

Canadian Shield

Thanks for the kind words!

I've been considering modeling the mid-to-late 1970s because that's what I remember as a young boy.  I wouldn't get rid of the transition-era stuff...  If I did this at all I would have a full suite of equipment, details, and vehicles for both eras.  I could flip between Pennsy and Penn Central/Conrail.

Nevertheless, I still love Pennsy steam.  I was always impressed as a kid seeing the big, unique-looking beasts at the museum in Strasburg, PA.  I even remember riding behind PRR 4-4-0 #1223 and PRR 4-4-2 #7002 on the Strasburg RR.  But getting Pennsy steam in N is not easy; both of my Pennsy steamers are the result of hard work and considerable kitbashing.  Some say that's the way the hobby should be, and I'm proud of both my Pennsy steamers...  ...but, my fingers aren't getting any smaller!  Neither am I feeling great about dropping $300 on the PCM PRR M1b 4-8-2 if it ever materializes.  I know, I didn't pre-order, so I can't complain.  I'm not sure how much more resources I'll commit to the 1950s...  After one more Atlas PRR GP9 w/ DCC I may start my Penn Central collection.

Modeling the Rio Grande Southern First District circa 1938-1946 in HOn3.

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Posted by CanadianShield on Friday, January 12, 2007 11:22 AM

 

 Dave,

Have you ever been in Modelrailroader? Your layout Is really good, if you haven't we should get you in there!

 

Canadian Shield
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  • From: Colorado Springs, CO
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Posted by Dave Vollmer on Friday, January 12, 2007 11:30 AM
 CanadianShield wrote:

 

 Dave,

Have you ever been in Modelrailroader? Your layout Is really good, if you haven't we should get you in there!

 

No, it hasn't.  I've thought about it, though.

Modeling the Rio Grande Southern First District circa 1938-1946 in HOn3.

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Posted by trainfreek92 on Friday, January 12, 2007 8:42 PM

I cant really remember I had it favorited but oh well.... Thanxs for all the help

Running New England trains on The Maple Lead & Pine Tree Central RR from the late 50's to the early 80's in N scale
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Posted by Nataraj on Friday, January 12, 2007 9:09 PM
I am getting in to N scale, but cannot manage to get a hold on some N scale athearn bombardier cars. Anyone know where I can get some (4-6) caltrain ones??? I think they stoped making them, but I am not sure......
Nataraj -- Southern Pacific RULES!!! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The GS-4 was the most beautiful steam engine that ever touched the rails.
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Posted by pcarrell on Saturday, January 13, 2007 9:29 AM

Tim,

I've collected so much info that it's like digging through a mountain to find stuff.  I really should get better organized!

Theres a forum devoted to B&M/MEC:  http://www.railroad.net/forums/viewforum.php?f=77&sid=a912b01d9672b2f338829f1f814929b1

This isn't what you're looking for, but it's kinda interesting:  http://www.maine.gov/sos/cec/corp/100yr.htm

Maybe its this?:  http://supreme.justia.com/us/96/499/case.html

Beyond that, I don't know.  If I haven't hit it, and you think of something that might give a clue, let me know.  Most of my info is on the B&ML, a road owned for many years by the MEC.

Philip
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Posted by nscaler711 on Saturday, January 13, 2007 8:43 PM
Nataraj i saw that ebay had some in  nscale i was browsing for metrolink now im not sure where they could be i was looking for the url but cant find any thing the nscale supply is a no go you should try metrolink instead it runs lower in california  los angeles area

Army National Guard E3
MOS 91B

I have multiple scales now
Z, N, HO, O, and G.  

  • Member since
    December 2005
  • From: Regina, Saskatchewan
  • 101 posts
Posted by CanadianShield on Saturday, January 13, 2007 8:47 PM

 

  Sitting on my computer on Ebay today I realize I am gonna need a buttload of F Units, in particular Maroon and Grey F7as and bs in Canadian Pacific Livery for N scale. My Canadian Shield runs Intermountain FTs in Blue and White, but for the Canadian Pacific Kato made some F units a while back, and model power makes the dorky rapido coupler not so detailed and smooth ones.

Very impressed with my Intermountain units I picked up the phone and called them. I asked to make a product suggestion, to offer their n scale f7s in Canadian Pacific Maroon and Grey, as there is a shortage of these and I know tons of folks who would get a pair. The gentleman at Intermountain said that he was very happy I called and thats just the kind of things he likes to hear! So he sounded like he was going to announce a new paint scheme to authorized dealers, and people on the email announcement list to see if there is any interest, and if he gets enough orders they will produce them!

The way the decoders install, two screws hold them in place and changing lightboards on my FTs is a snap! The detail is same or better as any kato including separate handrails, LED headlights and microtrains couplers factory installed. All for a reasonable price considering how nice the four FTs I have creep and pull like the real thing!! So I will take 4 right away (ABBA) but talk about solving my dilemma!

Way to go Intermountain!

Canadian Shield
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Posted by trainfreek92 on Saturday, January 13, 2007 8:53 PM
 pcarrell wrote:

Tim,

I've collected so much info that it's like digging through a mountain to find stuff.  I really should get better organized!

Theres a forum devoted to B&M/MEC:  http://www.railroad.net/forums/viewforum.php?f=77&sid=a912b01d9672b2f338829f1f814929b1

This isn't what you're looking for, but it's kinda interesting:  http://www.maine.gov/sos/cec/corp/100yr.htm

Maybe its this?:  http://supreme.justia.com/us/96/499/case.html

Beyond that, I don't know.  If I haven't hit it, and you think of something that might give a clue, let me know.  Most of my info is on the B&ML, a road owned for many years by the MEC.

Nope none of those but it ok. You have given me a lot thanxs. I think I will join that forum.Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg] Tim

Running New England trains on The Maple Lead & Pine Tree Central RR from the late 50's to the early 80's in N scale
  • Member since
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  • From: Mass
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Posted by trainfreek92 on Saturday, January 13, 2007 8:54 PM

Clown [:o)]Hey I have 1,000 posts!! sorry if i annoy any one

Running New England trains on The Maple Lead & Pine Tree Central RR from the late 50's to the early 80's in N scale
  • Member since
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Posted by nscaler711 on Saturday, January 13, 2007 11:06 PM
HEY Dave start electrifying your prr railroad i just sent in a suggestion to Kato for a PRR GG1! it will be so coolCool [8D] to have a new GG1 out by Kato!

Army National Guard E3
MOS 91B

I have multiple scales now
Z, N, HO, O, and G.  

  • Member since
    November 2003
  • From: Colorado Springs, CO
  • 2,742 posts
Posted by Dave Vollmer on Sunday, January 14, 2007 5:55 AM

That sounds cool, but I wouldn't hold my breath... Sigh [sigh] Although the region I model (west of Harrisburg) was never electrified, if Kato does do a GG1, I'll start stringing the catenary!

OTOH, PCM may well consider doing a GG1 in N, but it's a good bet it'll be outside my price range.

Modeling the Rio Grande Southern First District circa 1938-1946 in HOn3.

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Posted by Nataraj on Sunday, January 14, 2007 12:50 PM
 nscaler711 wrote:
Nataraj i saw that ebay had some in  nscale i was browsing for metrolink now im not sure where they could be i was looking for the url but cant find any thing the nscale supply is a no go you should try metrolink instead it runs lower in california  los angeles area


Well, I model northern california, southern pacific/union pacific/amtrak, so I don't really want to have metrolink. I kinda wanted caltrain.

But thanks anyways. I will keep my eye out on ebay.

Thanks
Nataraj -- Southern Pacific RULES!!! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The GS-4 was the most beautiful steam engine that ever touched the rails.
  • Member since
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Posted by Nataraj on Sunday, January 14, 2007 1:53 PM
WWOOOOOOO-HHOOOO!! Found the N scale caltrain bombarider cars at caboose hobbies!!! Got a 3-car set, plus 2 add on cars. Should arrive in a week!
Nataraj -- Southern Pacific RULES!!! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The GS-4 was the most beautiful steam engine that ever touched the rails.
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Posted by NS2591 on Sunday, January 14, 2007 4:28 PM
 Dave Vollmer wrote:

That sounds cool, but I wouldn't hold my breath... Sigh [sigh] Although the region I model (west of Harrisburg) was never electrified, if Kato does do a GG1, I'll start stringing the catenary!

OTOH, PCM may well consider doing a GG1 in N, but it's a good bet it'll be outside my price range.

Its a good thing that the only N scale MILW Electrics are brass and way out of my price range. Otherwise I could a MILW Rocky Mountain Division modeler. But if someonedoes do MILW Electrics and Diesels it wouldn't be hard to change the area of my layout.... seeing as it has no Scenery

On my way home from the MR Club in Durand MI, I stopped by a friends house and picked up 8 toti for 110! What a deal!

Jay Norfolk Southern Forever!!
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Posted by switchman on Sunday, January 14, 2007 8:58 PM

Hello N Scale folks, 

I'm glad to see this thread started.  Having a specific place to go for N Scale information is one of the best additions to this site.  This is where I would like to come for my future Model railroad general and N Scale specific questions. I'm retired and this is my second year in N scale and I'm having the time of my life.  I'm currently working on a 13 by 8 layout. Progress is slow, but a little and a little make a lot.  I'm glad to be here.

See ya

Ya gots ta chose. Sometimes ya wins and sometimes ya lose.
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Posted by R. T. POTEET on Sunday, January 14, 2007 11:01 PM
 nscaler711 wrote:
Nataraj i saw that ebay had some in  nscale i was browsing for metrolink now im not sure where they could be i was looking for the url but cant find any thing the nscale supply is a no go you should try metrolink instead it runs lower in california  los angeles area


Huh???

From the far, far reaches of the wild, wild west I am: rtpoteet

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Posted by R. T. POTEET on Sunday, January 14, 2007 11:06 PM
 nscaler711 wrote:
HEY Dave start electrifying your prr railroad i just sent in a suggestion to Kato for a PRR GG1! it will be so coolCool [8D] to have a new GG1 out by Kato!


Huh???

From the far, far reaches of the wild, wild west I am: rtpoteet

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