davefromacrossthepond

Similarly though,since every magazine has advertisements by all of the manufacturers couldn't the argument be made that there would never be a "bad" review because of the chance of losing advertising revenue?

Chris, Fantastic job with painting the brick/stone work! Going to have to re-evaluate my work, but then again, challenges are good! Dave

Rich, I'm loving the thread. I will admit that I smile a bit every time you note that you are about to embark on something you've never done before. I cheer you on as, after all, that's a big part of what makes this hobby so fun right? Looking forward to seeing your progress. Dave

Rich, While perhaps not the most exciting things to look at, I do find pictures/posts/information concerning baseboards/benchwork to be very instructional. I particularly like the way you used the metal angle to get the backscene boards to fit tight. I'm going to have to give that a try. Thanks! Dave

Okay, so when my scenery gets all messed up because I didn't let the sculptamold set and the Metcalfe retaining wall tumbles in response, I can say it is all prototypical?

So when the next batch comes out in December, this thread will be on page 302?

28 days for delivery? If I remember correctly here in the states the standard time back in late 70s was "six to eight weeks" which seemed like an eternity when I made my very first mail order (which required Mom signing a check for me). I still have the Atlas N scale hopper cars that finally arrived. Good times.

Barnaby and Mike, Thanks for your responses concerning Bull Frogs and Bluepoints. It does seem a bit odd that me in the U.S. is getting advise from you two guys in UK about stuff from North America. lol Truth be told, I've seen them advertised, checked out the websites, etc., but nothing beats straight reviews from non-associated folks. Thanks! Dave

Barnaby, Would love to hear your review of the Bull Frogs. I like the concept of them, but have never seen them in operation.

Mike, I just wanted to comment on the work you and Ben did and to say "well done." I have to think back when I was around that age and I would "help" my dad with projects (both my grandfathers passed before I was born). Those were some of the best memories I have today and a big reason why I am in this great hobby of ours. I'm sure Ben will remember working with you for years to come.

I have to say, it is kind of refreshing to see Hornby in a "bind" of having a locomotive that is perhaps "too" popular. Let's hope this turns out to be a good thing for Hornby . . . and all of us.

Why does one use the "Exit" door when one is in a store and wants to enter the parking lot? Of course, for those in the Northeast U.S., it is always interesting that one drives on a parkway, but parks in a driveway.

Martyn, Thanks for posting that pic! Dave

Hmmmmm. Solely a N modeller? Not for long!!!!

This is really a fantastic model locomotive and unfortunately I'm saving my funds for the annual Springfield (Massachusetts) train show, so perhaps when the next batch comes in. On the other hand I have to say that I'm quite happy that Hornby, given the problems faced these past several quarters, have started out the year with a smashing success. Here's hoping that it continues!

Stephen, With regards to the Hattons point motor. How thick of a baseboard do you think the extension rod would reach through? I haven't been able to locate this information anywheres. Thank you in advance for any assistance.

Whether or not to sell direct is, I would think, a very difficult decision to make. Perhaps the most difficult decision is the price point. Manufacturers certainly don't want to set a price that their retailers can't match or beat. While short term profits may increase, the long term outlook would most likely be a bit dimmer. Here in the U.S. Bachmann does sell directly to the public - it is often the only way to get parts (ie: driving wheel sets, cabs etc). But, Bachmann, from what I can tell, does not undercut its retailers with regards to freight cars or locomotives and most retailers here don't sell individual parts (I would think there would not be enough demand for a store to have inventory sitting). So in a way there is no competition between the two. In any event I'm sure that Bachmann, Hornby, Peco etc etc do spend countless hours trying to figure this all out - if they get it right no one says a thing, but get it wrong . . . . . . In any event I do hope Hornby figures it out - they make some pretty cool stuff.

All I can say is "Wow" and "well done!"

Of course the neat thing is that many of these sounds can be turned on or off (depending on the decoder) so that you can have one set of sounds for one group and another for a different. Rivet counters or Thomas lovers - all can be made to smile. Fantastic how far sound decoders have come in the past 10 or so years! I only wish my late Dad could see all of this.

Two peoples divided by a common language!

GWR? GER? Is there a difference? (Throw the grenade into the room and then run . . . . . . .)

OK, living in Rhode Island, USA, I had to laugh a bit on reading the title of this thread. I thought I was the one being lured to the Dark Side in that I am planning on starting a GWR OO layout this winter. I guess it's all about perspective! Lol

Gary, A superb effort is Industry Lane. I am particularly blown away by the structures - everything just looks, for lack of a better word, right. When looking at the pictures it is hard to believe your layout isn't 3 or 4 times its actual size. Looking forward to your next project! Dave

Interesting to see that rotary tippers were also used. If I do go that route, it would be interesting to see if the Walthers tipper could be modified. One simple question - lots of great answers (and plenty of info for Google searches indeed!). Thanks all!

Nearholmer, Oh wow, that is a fantastic picture indeed! It simply begs to be modelled (perhaps unloading into narrow gauge wagons). Thanks!!!! Dave