4firstimes

The camping coach which was stored on the long lower road from the Loading bank was a Pullman camping coach no 51 and was this was case the case in June 1968. Incidentally at the same time there was an additional one with windows on the vestibule ends . Both appear to be former Pullman clestory roof types

With all the talk of the recent announcement on the Bachman website of all the latest releases. Whilst most of the discussion has been around the latest releases of both 08 and class 37’s , wait , after such a long delay a further release of the Kyle line Highlander coaches included the representation of the DTCL , my credit card is going to take a hammer again but after a wait at last the end is in sight. I wonder if Bachman are going to release the missing Mk2 coaches with the Clan names, or another marketing ploy , in which willing stockists were prepared to break down the sets and sell and individual models. BR 'Highlander' Pack Mk2 TSO & Class 101 DTCL BR Highland Rail G. & C.

I wonder if Hornby have missed out on a trick with the LNER Coronation Beavertail coach. I know that during the presentation reference was made to give Hornby ideas for models , but the Beavertail observation Coaches especially Number E1729E spent a period of time in Maroon livery on the West Highland Line , originally in Custard and Cream and later in Maroon around 1957/8 . The only variation between the original build on the Coronation Train was the cutting down of the lower valences on the coach sides. A further variation being the rebuilding after this period . Off the record with the introduction of sophisticated smoke system on DCC models I wonder if this can be miniturised for use with the J36 then “Mauds” 5407 reputation of destroying the West Highlands Timetable 28th May 1984 in which acres of heather along the route went up in smoke courtesy of Maud.

I am seeking information on Welbeck Colliery Junction with the view to building a 2mm scale model. I am aware on s different website there is information concerning the signal box diagram of the junction around 1961 , information on distances of signals from the box would be appreciated. In know in about 1975 the junction was rationalised and the pre grouping layout simplified . The box was closed around 1997 when control was transferred to Clipstone Box , in connect with the transfer of control the signal palling was recommissioned with colour lights . I am interested in the dimensions of these from the junction and how entry and exit to Welbeck colliery was performed . I understand train length was restricted to 1435 feet plus locomotive 20/21 bogie wagons in the period upto closure of the colliery . Any information provided would be helpful

On both of my C Class 0-6-0 Wainwright tender locomotives I found the back to back on the tender wheels was out. Using a back to back gauge on the wheels I found it solved the problem on both of mine. Interesting at the time the fault manifested itself on different parts of the layout . Running tender first I found the problem was more pronounced than running loco forward. I spent ages examining each spot where the problem had been identified , but as each locomotive exhibited the problem on different parts of the layout. Locomotives with smaller Driving wheels where not effected , I looked closer at the problem and it was only when reversing tender first over a point did I spot the issue on a pair check rails. I would be interested ;if after checking the back to back the problem is solved. On my foot crossing at the platform ends I like to make sure the infills are a little lower between the top of the rails and the gap between the infill and the rails is a little wider , carefully painted it is not obvious but does help to stop low hanging gear closures on the bottom of locomotives becoming grounded. I find certain manufacturers who put on/off slide switches on the underside of dmus , carefully slice the switch to level there is no problem .

Chris, You might be interested in some additional information for your diorama of Carterton . I was based at RAF Brize Norton in 1991-3 and during this time looked at Carterton as a model in 2mm scale. At this time an article appeared over several pages in the RAF station’s Magazine including details of several photographs which have not appeared in the railway press . Interesting in the paragraph was details of how the station operated and the connections over. The taxi ways . I no longer have a copy of the magazine but a letter to the base commander might turn up trumps as the base may have information from the station archives. The person who wrote the article I think had connection with Swindon Model Railway Club as in those days a number of railway modellers at either Brize Norton or Lynham were members of the Swindon group. From my research via the clerk of the Parish Council which included Carterton one of the Signalman I think his name was Davies , had plenty of photos , I didn’t follow this up as at the time Carterton was too simple and I was more interested in Lechlade . However with all the developments in DCC and sound fitted locomotives the simple layout might be worth a re visit

My first venture into DCC control was with the NCE powercab , and with the experience using several layouts I can vouch the NCE range is my preferred choice. The biggest let down is the instruction manual and when you start to use the range of accessories including block detectors mini panels you will find that documentation leaves a bit to be desired. Find someone who uses NCE and the powercab to show you all the features , much easier than trying to follow the manual. The downside of the powercab is that with locomotives fitted with sounds you will be hunting for power, up grade with something like the Dcc concepts power pack when your ready. Several times I have looked at some other brands but each time come back to the NCE range. In conclusion it’s all about preferences , the powercab is an ideal starter and not too much cash outlay if you decide later DCC is not for you. I now use My NCE with JMRi and control from a computer.

I have faced a similar situation With farish class 20 after replacing the chip with the likes of digitrax and Lenz . The locomotive has been re programmed several times reset an equal number of times. Following a suggestion from a follower of the NCE Dcc forum to put a RC filter or snubber across the furthest end of each DCC bus runner . If you are using high power boosters or very long bus runs greater than around 60 feet then consider using two snubbers at the end of each bus. Having installed snubbers on my layout I haven’t experienced any similar problems . The advantage and it may be a personal choice; a RC filter is designed to reduce or eliminate voltage spikes on long runs of the Dcc bus wire. I understand a RC filter May reduce the chances of decoders being damaged from inductive voltage spikes . I have noticed an improvement in running , which may be due preserving the DCc waveform accuracy . I am only familiar with those RC filters provided by NCE , but I believe similar filters are available from other manufacturers. DCc concepts used to have their own version listed on their website . There are numerous views on the effectiveness of “snubbers” in DCC , but for a small outlay and if you are experiencing issues with run away locomotives, fitting a Snubber or RC filter may prove advantageous.

So folks to follow on the back of this request for an article from the railway modeller . I was wondering if any member of this forum is able to help out with this request either to contact me off forum or provide the offer of help. Back in the mid 1976 there was an article on building model railways in or on a bookcase. The article I am wishing to obtain details I think covered two months , two modellers had similar ideas. The one I am seeking I think. Is Hawley Town . I used to have copy of the article but re-patriation to the uk at the end of an overseas tour I think I gave away both copies which contained the articles. I know photos of the layout has appeared in several books on railway modelling. With retirement approaching I am interested in layouts which can be built in or on a bookcase and not too disruptive to the domestic authorities. In addition around the same period the layout Chevoitdale appeared and I am very keen to obtain a copy of this article. I think Chevoitdale appeared at the York Model railway show between the period 1976 and1979. Incidentally I understand Peco are considering making historical articles from their magazines available on line to view under some form of conscription. Any help and member can provide I outdoor be grateful

Reading all the comments concerning the Farish sound versions of both the class 31 and Stanier 8f steam locomotive , there appears to a high level of approval. I have several diesels equipped with sound , and as a whole extremely pleased, but in an exhibition environment the sound is often lost in the ambience of the venue, often to other exhibitors pleasure I aways thought sound in n gauge locomotives was not worth the effort, and the earlier release of the GWR Castle I had mixed views; however with the new re-tooled 8f then my thoughts have changed . In OO gauge I have always liked the sound files produced by the specialists . I won’t mention any names for fear of favouritism, my next purchase will be a non sound version together with a sound chip and sound file from my favourite supplier . This may not be everyone’s preferred option and Bachmann are trying to venture into the sound market, and making a good effort , revitalising a limited range of models which are viable . Therefore I believe the future looks bright ,even if the wallet will be emptied sooner. I wonder if any of the readers have gone down this route and could share their experience . My own experience ,the commercial market of sound fitted locomotives off the shelf; the sound file whilst being good and representing. There has a few short comings particularly around the “play value options”. There are usually three or four sound options modellers will never use on of the shelf models. With the options of non sound locomotives being available I wonder If over a long term putting a sound chip in after purchase with the appropriate sound file is a better option, and worth the time rather than tweaking the various CV values. The distinct advantage here is these are not included in the after market fit options .Working the cost difference the value is a marginal difference , unless you go down the active drive route , which gives a real feel of driving a steam locomotive or diesel , driving to the beat, then this is unique value of sound which becomes apparent when you play trains immersing in a distant memory. I can only wish the B1 and Black 5 locomotives are re-tooled soon - food for thought .

A recent search through this Forum concerning a number of issues with the Dapol Imperium decoders has provided the opportunity in this topic to provide some information and hopefully I will be able to locate the Information for myself. The background is that I had recently purchased a Dapol class 26 with decoder already fitted thinking this would be an easy option. The outcome is not always that simple , however on running the model in, the control of the locomotive was somewhat indifferent and the the function characteristics of the Head and tail lamps did not conform the convention . Firstly I use NCE products and so I had a little understanding of using DCC the decoder was not faulty but how it had been set up. With a couple of evening messing around with the CV settings and numerous re-sets using a value on CV 8 as 4 , the issue didn't seem to make any difference . Using Decoder Pro ;one of the JMRI software suites I soon found out that all the CV settings had no resemblance to any thing on the Dapol website of their pre-release documentation for the decoder. Changing Cv 15 Decoder lock to 0 and CV Decoder lock CV 16 to I , I eventually managed to obtain all the Default values as shown on their documentation . However I still was unable to get the Head lights and tail Lights to function correctly . With the help of a well known Model Shop , I was able to obtain a temporary fix which seems to work properly . As I used JMRI to set up the decoder I am not sure if the order to change the CVs matter but the values I used are given following. 1. CV33 set at 5 2 CV 34 set at 6 3.CV 36 set at 9 4, CV 35 set at 10 5. CV 51 Set at 24 6. CV 52 at 0. I now have a Dapol Class 26 with head and tail lights illuminated on the correct direction and using NCE Powercab the headlight Button one or off on the activation. After changing the CVs and testing on CV1 as 03 , finally moving the correct address 5310 , the decoder functions properly . i

I have just noticed this thread , best of look in your project . Small layouts have an interesting potential and provide hours of opportunity for modelling without being too obtrusive. In my younger days I built a small N gauge layout on two baseboards of 3ft by 11 inches . Working in the military at the time this layout went all around the world with my various postings. Just small enough to pack up in a military mfo box . On one occasion I forgot to pack it away on the Station Commanders inspection of the junior ranks accommodation. The trouble I dropped myself in with The SWO was unbelievable, I did manage to disrupt the Station Commanders Inspection amazing he loved to play trains. After that every inspection I had to leave it out and the Station Commander spent 10 mins playing trains , certainly help my cause for the remainder of my tour. The proof is that small is worthwhile.

The NCE powercab is an ideal starter set . My introduction into DCC was via this route. Before you decide talk to either Coastal DCC or Digitrains , both of these suppliers are many exhibitions , (although not sure what the current situation is) . The NCE powercab is a good starter but you will soon find the limitations and you have identified Dcc concepts alpha and alpha power box to boost the power if you have locomotives with sounds and lights. NCE produce an USB interphase which allows connection with a computer for control with JMRI . There is vast information on JMRI and the forum is very good at helping you out. The issue with NCE is the documentation is not very clear and as a beginner it takes time to get your head around what you require. Help is at hand via the NCE forum who provide a wealth of information. The team at DCC concepts will provide excellent advice on using their products with NCE and their forum has a plenty of information to help you. JMRI is a little minefield till you can get your head around but with perseverance you will get to under stand . To start with from the NCE powercab and Dcc concepts alpha box and alpha power box get your mind around these and then buy the NCE uSb interphase . The powercab is a facility to set up a programming track to program decoders which makes it ideal. The decoder pro part of JMRi takes a little to understand but when you get the hang of using it it’s good. if you need anymore help please contact me off forum . The recommendation is start off with the powercab learn how this works before getting in deeper. When I started I had to get a mate show me how to make up a consist always better to have a play before you buy

I am seeking information on the following Three EM gauge layouts by D. Mundy who delveloped the Sprat and Winkle Couplings from which his layouts showcased this coupling System .Any modeller who an help with the articles or provide information so I can obtain copies of the Magazine. The first layout is Somborne which was a double track through station based in southern practice . I think the article was in three parts in either the former Model Railway Constructor or the Railway modeller .This layout , Derrick replaced with “The Sprat and Winke Line as was seen at York 1978/79 , reference in the show guide indicated an article had appeared in on of the magazine. The following York Easter show or Central Hall Westminster there was a layout called Somborne based on a LSWR location as end to end in around 16 ft had replaced his sprat and winkle line. I Would like to obtain copies of the articles from all three layouts kind regards for any help

With the listing of several interesting locomotive classes the team have provided there are some omissions in the LNER grouping notably the eX LNER D21 4-4-0 tender locomotive these where extremely charming small tender locomotives although a small number in the class . Those modellers familiar with the old gem white metal kits will be familar with the class. Given the promise in next few years of new models of ex north eastern locomotive classes there follows the need for approapriate rolling stock

I have recently acquired a Bachmann J11 sound equipped locomotive and considering the options of switching the chip or having a re blow on the sound. My question is on my K1 before the locomotive moves off you hear the sounds as if the cylinders are filling with steam , this is how I remember hearing the J11 or Pom poms. My question is and I think the answer is no, which cv on the Bachmann and the value do I need to alter on the esu loksound chip to produce the same effect , so you hear the cyclinders filling with steam before the wheels start to rotate. i know it is possible as I have done this on previous another locomotive , but the cv settings I am familiar with seem not apply on this locomotive. Kind regards

In response to the questions I was using a laptop with windows 7 and using a t-link 450mbps wireless n router. There is no direct internet access just the Wi-fi output from the router . All the iPads and iPhone or android devices password secure. I did observe access to web server on the hand held devices repeated dropped out. And whilst WiThrottle window recognised which hand held device was connected via the Wi-fi .

At a recent outing with my N gauge layout , I am using JMRI and WiFI using either iPads and Withrottle or Android device and Engine driver. On several occasions the DCC signal appears to have been lost resulting in control from the IPAD OR Android device being lost. and resulting in the locomotive or scenic feature not responding to the input. At home the system was tried several weeks with no problem, but at a recent outing the set up became problematic that the operators resorted to wired handsets was taken. The discussion I will forward through the JMRI user group, but I am wondering if any member on reading this forum has experienced the same and how was the matter resolved. An observation was made that the using wi-fi throttle there is an option to use web server , however on several occassion the observation was made on the iPads this facility was intermittent . The wifi router was positioned high on a purpose built self above the lighting rig so there was no blocking of the wifi signal between. I am wondering if the configuration on the network bridge on the Computer using windows 7 had been configured correctly or was in conflict with a wifi signal on one of the other layouts. Any guidance would be appreciated . Stuart.

This topic must be one of the most interesting subjects on the forum, and whilst i feel sorry for those modellers who have lost out by the business model of this concern; there has been a wealth of information to help modellers if the situation ever arises again with a future organisation. Whatever is your view, i feel the direction in the future has changed significantly when other enterprises use similar schemes to finance the development of cherished models which the major players in this market may not wish to develop in their product range. The challenge of how to raise funds to develop these is certainly one which i feel is going to be more difficult and require closer scrutiny before we part with our monies as deposits. The lessons in the demise of this concern for whatever reason , and the analysis of the findings of the process following the voluntary liquidation clearly show the world of railway modelling was many capital risks from which the main stream manufactures have the experience. The discussion through this forum has been interesting and whilst I withdrew from business with this concern when the Class 17 was cancelled, if the facts held true to the reason given, this market is one not designed for the small players. On a lighter note a certain railway pioneer of humble beginnings rose to become the railway King before his world crashed away. Whilst this concern is not in the same same league, however the ‘Talk the talk’ and there was the interest for we modellers to make deposits for models we know know could not be delivered. The business model with is failing will certainly provide lessons for the future and we modellers more cautious in how we spend our money . The knowledge provided by those modellers who have lost their deposits I feel sorry for, but in the trauma of the recents events you have provided a wealth of information , and you willingness to share is of benefit to the hobby as a whole.

At a recent running day with my layout Arisaig and interesting observation was made by one of my operators . The quest became more of a challenge and an eureka moment. With more and more layouts being operated from a tablet ,iPad or iPhone using some form of computer integration , why do operators have to stand behind the layout given that the use of JMRi allows freedom from wired throttles. With this freedom the ability see routes selected is not always possible . What about building a schematic display with LEDs on the back wall of the fiddle yard , and bring the operator to the front of the layout . Easier to talk to members of the public . Thinking about this comment from the observation, kind of provided the opportunity to re think how layouts are operated. I wonder how many times modellers have tripped over trailing cables , the NCE powercab which is my preferred choice , I’ve lost count the number of cable tangles between two throttles or number of occasions the wires have become in conflict with size 9 feet. The cogs of thought were immediately engaged and the results shown in this posting. A minic panel complete with LEDs was built and attached to the back panel of each fiddle yard. Take two wires from the correct alpha minic board to the Dcc power bus. Eureka each operator at the fiddle yard ends of the layout has a comprehensive over view of the route selected. The facial panel will be tidied up later and the loose paper and plastic around the led bezels removed. Within the next couple of weeks I will be ordering the remaining LEDs to complete the job before the layouts outing in The summer . The bare wood will be stained with wood stain and blend into the fiddle yard. The bare wood between the schematic representation of the layout and the fiddle yard will have an insert installed this provides a visual representation of the break point between fiddle yard and rest of the layout. A good tip for building the schematic representation is I used a good quality white printing paper, inserted into a plastic laminating sleeve. This sleeve was then passed through an office laminator to seal and then cut to fit. The laminated fascia was secured with mounting spray. The surface wiped down with a damp cloth to remove the glue, and allowed to dry for 24 hours. The holes drilled for the LEDs using a drill , and the LEDs secured , the wiring is all done behind the panel which stands about 50mm depth from the back of the fiddle yard. Now when operating the layout operators using WiFi throttle or Engine Driver no longer require access to the control panel. The throttle to operate the train is on the tablet , iPhone or IPad. At the time of testing I was using my Collection of DMUs sitting at my office table with feet up playing trains. This is Arisaig and is fully controlled with DCC using JMRi although still learning how to use JMRi properly. With a little bit of imagination anything is possible. Stuart

The choice of which DCC system to go for is certainly one of preference and definitely worth having a "hands on trial " of the different systems. In my case I chose the NCE powercab the cost of which is very good for a basic system and ideally suited to the running of N gauge . This forum has provided a useful source of supplies of DCC equipment and are willing to help out quickly in response to the questions. I learnt how to use the powercab and all the functions from a fellow modeller who allowed me to operate his layout at a show. The powercab manual is confusing , but you soon get to grips with the basics and learn how to use the advanced functions. I think originally after 30 minutes of connecting the NCE powercab to my layout on Cromer Road -( see this forum ) I had my first locomotive a DMU running and that included installing a chip in the power car and a chip in the trailer , although I struggled to set the correct direction on the power car and the dummy . A quick visit to my local model railway club I was soon shown how to configure correctly. Soon I was operating Cromer Road signals , points and lights using DCC. The guidance provided by the main stream suppliers for DCC one can not fault. Within 6 months of owning the powercab I had built up my DCC system with NCE Block detectors , Mini Panels , and USB Interphase for use with JMRI. The documentation provided with the NCE system is "basic" and requires an understanding of how everything connects together but there is the NCE forum and the contributors are happy provide assistance. When I was looking at DCC I nearly chose one of the well known others , five years later I m glad that I didn.t The advice provided would appear to be "top notch". Also I would like to add the help from the NCE team in NY , one can not fault , as I found whilst building Arisaig and 16A my block detectors would not register correctly with a piece of NCE equipment , an AIU. An email to the support team at NCE explaining the issue , with 10 days replacement chips for the Powercab had been sent to me with instructions how to fit. That is service and identifies the correct choice. I have two powercabs and my layout Arisaig is operated by WIFI throttle and JMRI , five years ago I never thought I would be able to get on with DCC , but having dabbled in one the cheaper options to test the water , the simplistic nature of the powercab throttles and ease of use is worth the consideration. The only down fall with the NCE system is the wired RJ connections to the cab and powerpanel , the clips to release the RJ plugs have a tendency to break when you least expect. Keep a couple spare is the only advice , I am unable to crimp these style of sockets as I don't have a strong grip to close up properly.

There is the correct understanding that layouts of locomotive power depots have a limited appeal , and this limitation manifests the understanding of how locomotive depots where actually worked. There have been several articles in the railway press over the years of how locomotive depots were actually worked , a good descrption appears in train shunting and marshalling for the modeller by Bob Essery . Remember this is a typical MPD if there was any such thing. Modelling MPDs is an interesting subject in its self , and whilst there where some excellent examples which stand out as ideal candidates ;success is the one which is not too large and stand chance of completion before interest is lost. The issue is really that there are in all the popular scales a good selection of the main items for the infrastructure, the smaller details which bring a layout of a mpd are those items which need to be scratch build and eventually determine the future. A model of a mpd is really a series of cameos unlike a layout, and building these cameos is time and resource intensive . My diorama 16A of Sub 40A is one such example however despite the simplistic layout there is a lot of operational interest . There was is an article on this forum and I have attached the track layout , in N gauge the diorama could be built in a space of 5ft x 1ft but to clear baseboard frames it has been extended to 6ft x1ft more convenient size to break down for transit.

Almost two years since I have provided an up date on Arisaig . Well progress is still being made and following a couple of articles in a well known magazine not much progress visually on the layout. With a couple of showings locally a number of improvements and ammendements to how the layout had been wired up ,including a period of 6 months in storage. This time provided an opportunity to configure Arisaig to be run using JMRI and either wifi throttle or Engine driver, from a hand held throttle such as I pad or iPhone. So for the next series of showing Arisaig will be operated using Jmri. A slight distraction with the arrival of the Dapol class 142 dmu this was for my other layout Cromer Road ,however the opportunity to run on Arisaig was an opportunity not to be missed as the pictures below show. I still have to connect up all the platform lights and the lighting on the barrow crossing. With the main buildings built for me by a friend using 3d printing including a good representation of the roof of the station building, I just need to paint weather and add the chimney stacks . I hope further progress is not going to be a further two years. Interest in the promise of representations of the correct west highland line green and green coaches .

With the Dapol class 142 , if yours appear to have erratic running in either direction , before jumping to any conclusions, place the model on a piece of glass to check all the wheels are incontact with the panel. If there is any rocking then he chassis is twisted remove the wheels and check the brass mountings , when you pack the models into the boxes the pressure on the foam moulding used to secure the models in transit appear to push the axles out of alignment. After you have realigned the axles remove some of the packing material before putting back in the box. The design in this area is particularly poor , I wonder how long before loose senenary fibres becomes entrapped