alan_parkes

Thanks to both-the geometry issue is more with the computer drawing rather than actual-I have solved it in real life! Even since writing my request I have seen the need to isolate the circuits and put in insulating joiners. I have a Gaugemaster twin track controller, by the way and a couple of Combis for the sidings. I am getting there...........

It is DC not digital, I should have stated

See attached poor diagram of my new layout, can anyone clever help with info where to place feeds and Insulating joiners. The blue and yellow circuits are intended as the main lines, with two separate feeds from controller. The red loop is intended to be run/isolated from the blue main line from the same supply/controller and switched by the points (turnout)

Just to add confusion, the three turnouts at the front are electrofrog SL95E, all others insulfrog.

Please: I need one or two lengths of 009 Flexi track to complete a revamp of my 009 layout, all any shops can offer me is a whole pack delivered by courier! Over £100 worth.... Can anybody help, willing to pay, delivery/collection may be the stumbling block, though, I'm in Hove. Anybody? Could even be standard N track, I suppose.....

Just to add my two-pennorth. I have two Dapol B4s, standard (Analogue) running, and they are perfect in every way, very pleased. As someone else mentioned, the firebox glow on the Rails / Dapol Terrier is a bit fierce! whereas the B4 looks realistic. NO problems or nagging here, thank you.

Just do it!!

Fabulous locos.

Enjoy every moment.

I have used the HF2 for years and can confirm they do indeed work on single end to end tracks (curved or otherwise!) as well as loops.  There seems to be some chattering that says such high frequency track cleaners cause damage to "modern" models with coreless motors.  In my experience (and I believe Bachmann also tested this as well with the same conclusion) this is complete and utter hogwash, cobblers, horse feathers and bunkem.

Just to add that I have also used the HF2 for several years now, it does make a difference (Positive!) and causes no problems in my experience.

I would recommend it.

Do any of the nameplate manufacturers do custom 4mm scale BofB plates?

 

I want to get a set made up for "303 Squadron", with a suitable number (34111 would be next in the list, logically)

I work in the Bulleid Shop at Sheffield Park Station on the Bluebell railway raising funds for the Society's locos. I remember a customer once telling me he used to work at Brighton loco shed when "633 Squadron" was based there...........

Having read the BRM for a while I haven’t seen a layout with Hornby track. It’s always peco. Why? Hornby track is relatively cheap and a good way to start. I’m using it. If you’re concerned with looks weather it with an airbrush and you can’t tell anyway. So why not?

My 8 x 4 layout uses 90% Hornby track, including small radius turnouts and curved turnouts, plus a few pieces of flexi to fill the gaps and complete the layout.

I accept the shortcomings, I only use 2nd and 3rd radius curves, and accept the non-prototypical look. But, crucially, it all works, with a range of locos and stock, sometimes carefully chosen to fit with the shortcomings, it gives me pleasure and makes me HAPPY and that, to me, is what this hobby is all about.

Yes I use them on a large roundy roundy in the loft . I seldom have to clean the track and they work very well for me. Mind you I do think the materials getting used in modern wheels and track have changed compared to that maybe 20 years ago so there is less of a need to clean anyway .

 

I believe they essentially detect when your loco is not in contact with track i.e. Wheel on dirt and pass voltage through to until issue solved. This is ok for most DC motors but would fry your DCC chip. I'm uncertain about what it does to Coreless motors , so far I've been able to avoid them

Yes, I am in agreement, I use the Gaugemaster HF2 twin track electronic cleaner, (see other posters for how they work!),  but I am completely satisfied with its use on my analogue roundy-roundy layout which has to live in a corner, making access for track cleaning using traditional methods difficult. It's use has transformed the slow running and tractability of all locos, old and new. No connection etc, just a satisfied customer.

After much trepidation I have recently installed a Gaugemaster HF-2 twin track electronic track cleaner on my small twin track roundy-roundy layout with sidings etc.

I am using it in conjunction with a Gaugemaster DS twin track controller with simulation.

I have been very pleasantly surprised by the performance of all my locos, old and new,  with the electronic cleaner operating.

It does not get hot (as some have reported) but the locos' performance is much more controllable at low speed, and no hesitations at turnouts etc.

Another vote for Gaugemaster from me.