TheRailwire
General Discussion => N and Z Scales => Topic started by: POVC on June 22, 2011, 11:09:52 PM
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Not much to report yet...
BANTRAK arrived in force on Tuesday and set-up their layout. Trains were running by about 9 PM.
Wednesday was arrival and check-in day. I went on a tour of Standard Steel and Todd Treaster's layout; great time! Wednesday evening was the welcome banquet.
For those of you looking for "news" out of the convention, don't expect much until Friday AM; the Swap-O-Rama starts at 9 AM which will be the first real chance to talk to manufacturers.
More later,
Tim
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Activities at the N Scale Convention in Hershey, PA formally kicked off today (even though there were tours and outings yesterday).
There were lots of room sales, and there are several vendors here. I saw Dave Volmer sporting the Conrail clothing, although he does not know me, he looks just like his pictures online.
Hopefully we can get some photo's up of the activities.
John Hale
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Activities at the N Scale Convention in Hershey, PA formally kicked off today (even though there were tours and outings yesterday).
There were lots of room sales, and there are several vendors here. I saw Dave Volmer sporting the Conrail clothing, although he does not know me, he looks just like his pictures online.
Hopefully we can get some photo's up of the activities.
John Hale
LOL, which one were you?
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LOL, which one were you?
John was the foaming NH fan lurking in the corner and turning over boxes at Tex-N-Rails for PA's and vintage steam to use at my OP's sessions.
:)
Actually, was the one hoping to find a Mech. Reefer 6-car set for a decent price.
Ask someone from Bantrak or check the clinic room, he should be around there. He might even be working your clinic for ya.
EP
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FYI - For those attending the convention, both Tom Mann and Dave Vollmer are presenting clinics on Saturday and Friday respectively.
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clinics
http://www.nationalnscaleconvention.com/Hershey/clinics.html (http://www.nationalnscaleconvention.com/Hershey/clinics.html)
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FYI - For those attending the convention, both Tom Mann and Dave Vollmer are presenting clinics on Saturday and Friday respectively.
I've even been roped in to being Tom's Vanna White for a moment... well, actually, Vanna Dullcote.
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I've even been roped in to being Tom's Vanna White for a moment... well, actually, Vanna Dullcote.
Is Tom posting pictures of you in your sequined evening gown?
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FYI - For those attending the convention, both Tom Mann and Dave Vollmer are presenting clinics on Saturday and Friday respectively.
As well as Victor Miranda, Saturday morning. Dave, Tom and Victor's clinics will be videotaped.
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Dave - will you be able to share the video's online for those not attending?
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Visited the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania and got a few shots of Old Rivets.
(http://bbussey.net/rr/PRR4800nose.jpg)
May try to render the N scale version of the body if the Shapeways method works out.
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Bryan... Yes. You must.
This was the ONLY G to get CR blue, and the welded Kato body won't work for it. You da man.
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Sat behind Dave and across the aisle from Bryan at the auction tonight. Watched as Dave bid on ESM rolling stock and got out bid by people who had no clue what the retail value was.
I did pick up a Digitrax DS-64 for $35.00, so all in all a good night for me.
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Arrived this morning (Friday), connected with Dave V & family. Looking forward to his clinic with mixed feelings--the clinic room is the size of a closet, and all of the clinics are scheduled back-to-back in the same tiny room, with no setup/teardown time. This could have been thought out a bit better...
Also Met John Hale, looking forward to connecting with other a$$hats over the weekend.
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A few pics from the layouts:
(http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab66/cec209/HersheyNScale2011093.jpg)
(http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab66/cec209/HersheyNScale2011087.jpg)
(http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab66/cec209/HersheyNScale2011098.jpg)
(http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab66/cec209/HersheyNScale2011081.jpg)
More to come.
Charlie
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Afew more.
(http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab66/cec209/HersheyNScale2011079.jpg)
(http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab66/cec209/HersheyNScale2011071.jpg)
(http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab66/cec209/HersheyNScale2011070.jpg)
(http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab66/cec209/HersheyNScale2011066.jpg)
Good to finally meet Dave Vollmer and family.
Charlie
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More pics at:
http://s850.photobucket.com/albums/ab66/cec209/
Charlie
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Awesome, thanks! I envisioned the place crawling with drunk a$$hats. Must be in the drunk tank ;)
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In addition to Bantrak A$$Hats, I saw Dave V, DKS, Bryan (ESM), Bullet Bob...
Still waiting for the Elusive Ed... hopefully tomorrow...
I will be at the Bantrak rig from 8-10:30 as well as the show entrance at 2:30
Eric
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Here are some product pics from the convention:
https://picasaweb.google.com/bbussey61/2011HersheyConventionShow (https://picasaweb.google.com/bbussey61/2011HersheyConventionShow)
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Oh my... those are some hawt intermodal goodies there. I'm going to have to start embezzling or something. Thanks for those great shots, Bryan.
Lee
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Hot diggity!
Trainworx shows UPS 28' drop frame pup trailer.... SWEET!
https://picasaweb.google.com/bbussey61/2011HersheyConventionShow#5621976734311232018 (https://picasaweb.google.com/bbussey61/2011HersheyConventionShow#5621976734311232018)
Thanks for the photos Bryan!
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Hot diggity!
Trainworx shows UPS 28' drop frame pup trailer.... SWEET!
Thanks for the photos Bryan!
+1! I think I missed the 28' trailer announcement before, or is this a new announcement?
:)
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The Flexi-Van trailer from Trainworx is more my era and looks good. Bryan, did you notice whether it has a side door on the driver's side.
Thanks for the photos everybody.
Best wishes, Dave
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+1! I think I missed the 28' trailer announcement before, or is this a new announcement?
:)
Not previously announced :-)
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You guys should have seen the TrainWorx TOFC flat in brown TT. Very very sweet. The model will come with container pedestals that can be snapped into place as well. The yellow TT cars will be on the market in September, and the announced trailers are coming next month.
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Love the Trailer Train brown 8) these cars look absolutley awesome a welcome addition to go with the F89-J's we n scalers are going to have some awesome early intermodal trains!
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When Trainboard comes back up, this link will take you to some more photos of the not yet officially announced Trainworx trailers and options.
http://www.trainboard.com/railimages/showgallery.php/ppuser/6278/username/cfritschle (http://www.trainboard.com/railimages/showgallery.php/ppuser/6278/username/cfritschle)
Carter
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Between Atlas and Trainworx I'll have to start selling plasma. And I thought I'd do a switching layout to get rid of my tofc fixation. ::)
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This is the first I've heard about FVM MILW baggage cars. Are they in the offing or is FVM just playing around with us?
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This is the first I've heard about FVM MILW baggage cars. Are they in the offing or is FVM just playing around with us?
Not playing around :-X
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This is the first I've heard about FVM MILW baggage cars. Are they in the offing or is FVM just playing around with us?
The official announcement will be at the Sacramento show next week.
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Any additional updates and/or info on new products? (Trainboard is still down and the thread about the convention on another board is about to be locked.)
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Any additional updates and/or info on new products? (Trainboard is still down and the thread about the convention on another board is about to be locked.)
I just saw this ... probably a failed upgrade .. but that's why you always make backups before you do that kind of stuff and have a backout plan
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-f_UjBl_V1Q4/TgcYeApr1II/AAAAAAAAJ_g/p21c5LgBXVI/s800/Trainboard.jpg)
As far as the thread on Atlas -
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Any shots of the model contest yet?
Dropped by the Atlas Forum to see if there was anything posted of interest there. 6 pages of Mellow Mike and others tossing cow pies back and forth and nary a report on what's going on. I think you need to jump over there John and whip a little moderation on them ;D
Joe
I just saw this ... probably a failed upgrade .. but that's why you always make backups before you do that kind of stuff and have a backout plan
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-f_UjBl_V1Q4/TgcYeApr1II/AAAAAAAAJ_g/p21c5LgBXVI/s800/Trainboard.jpg)
As far as the thread on Atlas -
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Has anyone got any shots of the MEC/BAR pulp racks that N scale Kits is doing? Apparently they had them on display along with their F39 flat.
Jon
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I think you need to jump over there John and whip a little moderation on them ;D
Joe
No, they do a pretty good job without my help .. I have my hands full here ..
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Has anyone got any shots of the MEC/BAR pulp racks that N scale Kits is doing? Apparently they had them on display along with their F39 flat.
I didn't get photos of Peter's stuff before the show packed up. Didn't see the pulp racks but the F39 looked fantastic.
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Has anyone got any shots of the MEC/BAR pulp racks that N scale Kits is doing? Apparently they had them on display along with their F39 flat.
Jon
For as long as he's been talking about the F39, I just presumed it was vaporware. Is he actually going to release soon?
On that note, anyone ever seen one of his Clejan flats or the auto transport trailers in person or if there's been any movement on the Flexi-Van car he's also been touting forever?
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On that note, anyone ever seen one of his Clejan flats or the auto transport trailers in person or if there's been any movement on the Flexi-Van car he's also been touting forever?
I emailed him in March about the Flexi-Vans. His reply:
"Frank
We have completed the patterns for the FlexiVan.
We are now sourcing the containers for the Van containers, as these are very specific to the FlexiVan and there are no similar containers available at the moment. The Vans are also patterned, and are awaiting a response from a manufacturer. We still hope to launch the FlexiVan in the Fall.
Thanks for your interest. We will let you know when they are close to release.
Best wishes
Peter
Peter Harris
N Scale Kits"
As with any manufacturer these day, delays happen. At least some sign of progress.
Frank
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I didn't get photos of Peter's stuff before the show packed up. Didn't see the pulp racks but the F39 looked fantastic.
ljudice posted over on the A board that he saw them and they looked fantastic. Was hoping for pics. Thanks for the response though Bryan!
Jon
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Not playing around :-X
I will have to pick up a couple of these! Any word on an updated release date for the May, June, July coaches?
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Just got home from there. Here are a few pics, most which have already been posted. Had a great time and got to meet several people here for the first time.
(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa149/rkbufkin/2011%20N%20Scale%20Convention%20and%20Railfan%20Trip/004.jpg)
(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa149/rkbufkin/2011%20N%20Scale%20Convention%20and%20Railfan%20Trip/005.jpg)
(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa149/rkbufkin/2011%20N%20Scale%20Convention%20and%20Railfan%20Trip/006.jpg)
(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa149/rkbufkin/2011%20N%20Scale%20Convention%20and%20Railfan%20Trip/014.jpg)
(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa149/rkbufkin/2011%20N%20Scale%20Convention%20and%20Railfan%20Trip/015.jpg)
(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa149/rkbufkin/2011%20N%20Scale%20Convention%20and%20Railfan%20Trip/016.jpg)
(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa149/rkbufkin/2011%20N%20Scale%20Convention%20and%20Railfan%20Trip/017.jpg)
(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa149/rkbufkin/2011%20N%20Scale%20Convention%20and%20Railfan%20Trip/020.jpg)
Anyone guess what this is. ED, don't spill the beans.
(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa149/rkbufkin/2011%20N%20Scale%20Convention%20and%20Railfan%20Trip/022.jpg)
Went to Cove a couple times, Harris Tower and a great time with the Conrail gang at Sherman Creek Bridge. I'll post some of those later. Also went to PA Railroad Museum which wasn't open and besides that it was Thomas weekend so I took a bunch of photos and got outta there. Finished up at my old haunts at St Denis before going home. Great Time.
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Anyone guess what this is. ED, don't spill the beans.
(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa149/rkbufkin/2011%20N%20Scale%20Convention%20and%20Railfan%20Trip/022.jpg)
I see Tom is thinking outside the box! Wonder how many people knew what it is, and what to do with it.
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I took a pic of it on the screen, but google on my phone couldn't figure out what it was. How do you scan it?
Well aparently I just had to reply to this topic and try again. It worked.
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Ed scanned it on his I-phone and also from my camera with no problem. Tom is definately thinking outside the box.
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I see Tom is thinking outside the box! Wonder how many people knew what it is, and what to do with it.
Hahahahaha. So is this Tom's T-shirt? Hahahah?
I got it. I have the software.
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Ed scanned it on his I-phone and also from my camera with no problem. Tom is definately thinking outside the box.
Woah woah... Eds an Android man...
Can't wait for those UPS pup trailers...saves me for trying to find and build more of the Arrowhead Model ones.
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I stand corrected, Ed is an Android man. Did you notice that the pups can connect together for a tandum set?
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I finally got my iPhone to read it ..
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Almost fogot these. Special runs just for the convention. Couldn't resist these 2.
(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa149/rkbufkin/2011%20N%20Scale%20Convention%20and%20Railfan%20Trip/078.jpg)
(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa149/rkbufkin/2011%20N%20Scale%20Convention%20and%20Railfan%20Trip/079.jpg)
P.S.
I think Tom's shirt would be a good header.
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So when were the pup trailers scheduled for release? Between the BLMA spines and the dozen r so 89' flats I need more trailers.
BTW got the Crackberry to scan the picture of the shirt tag.
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(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa149/rkbufkin/2011%20N%20Scale%20Convention%20and%20Railfan%20Trip/078.jpg)
Too bad that they are the wrong car types for the numbers... ;) ;D
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For as long as he's been talking about the F39, I just presumed it was vaporware. Is he actually going to release soon?
On that note, anyone ever seen one of his Clejan flats or the auto transport trailers in person or if there's been any movement on the Flexi-Van car he's also been touting forever?
The supplier of the laser-cut wood parts when toes-up on NSK, so they had to secure a new contractor. The pweter patterns have been complete for at least a year. The F39 should be out this year.
The Clejans have been out for a couple of years. I have two of them and the quality is first-rate.
Work is progressing on the Flexi flat. I don't remember the release date but it was in 2011. You also will have Flexi-Vans from Trainworx to populate them - they will be available in Oct/Nov.
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I will have to pick up a couple of these! Any word on an updated release date for the May, June, July coaches?
This fall for the new baggage and coaches.
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So when were the pup trailers scheduled for release? Between the BLMA spines and the dozen r so 89' flats I need more trailers.
BTW got the Crackberry to scan the picture of the shirt tag.
Oct/Nov.
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Anyone guess what this is. ED, don't spill the beans.
(http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa149/rkbufkin/2011%20N%20Scale%20Convention%20and%20Railfan%20Trip/022.jpg)
Q Code. All the rage lately.
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This fall for the new baggage and coaches.
Thanks for the info! Does it look like they will come out together or spread out? I may have to add a couple more coaches to my order with a few more months to think about! I am sure hoping Kato comes out with a new MR E8 run.
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Oct/Nov.
Hi Bryan,
I believe Pat said that just the 40-foot UPS style trailer and the 40-foot Union Pacific/PFE corrugated trailers would be released in the Oct/Nov time frame.
The release of the other trailers is a bit further down the road, but the tooling is complete for all of them. At least that is what I wrote down at the breakfast this morning.
It was great to see you at the convention.
Carter
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I stand corrected, Ed is an Android man. Did you notice that the pups can connect together for a tandum set?
I did. The dollys will be nice for the Athearn 28'ers as well. Im only interested in the trailers though as I have a few UPS trains to put together.
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Q Code. All the rage lately.
My 72 mustang mach 1 is a Q-code car. Cobra Jet. Had no idea all that was on that shirt too?
:)
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Scott,
Really liked your article on detailing a CNJ GP7 in N Scale Railroading. Well done!
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Bill, thanks for the compliment. To say that your work has always been an inspiration to me is an understatement.
Scott
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Personally, I liked the pictures from the show .. I am especially fond of this one .. and never get tired of seeing it ... It really helps me Mellow out .. :)
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab66/cec209/HersheyNScale2011093.jpg (http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab66/cec209/HersheyNScale2011093.jpg)
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Personally, I liked the pictures from the show .. I am especially fond of this one .. and never get tired of seeing it ... It really helps me Mellow out .. :)
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab66/cec209/HersheyNScale2011093.jpg (http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab66/cec209/HersheyNScale2011093.jpg)
Interesting that you should bring this up. Same photo posted in two groups (Atlas and The Railwire) but completely different results....I prefer the peace and quiet of this group.
Best wishes, Dave
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Dave... the mellow reference is the key in John's post ;)
I agree with Ed's assessment on the Atlas forum... that kind of scene really puts the training wheels on N track. There is a certain elegance of the mini-scene that you have to look for to see, many of which are cuttingly witty and humorous. That is too in your face. Might as well poop on the track...
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Personally, I liked the pictures from the show .. I am especially fond of this one .. and never get tired of seeing it ... It really helps me Mellow out .. :)
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab66/cec209/HersheyNScale2011093.jpg (http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab66/cec209/HersheyNScale2011093.jpg)
not 10 minutes I wrote to a friend about that same photo:
depicting a horror scene. OMG...
Godzilla eat your heart out....
Guys, now that I am over my panic, I had a lot of fun at the show.
later today I am going to add a photo of a loco I got while I was there.
v
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I see Atlas forgot to debut the N scale GP40-2W again...
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Personally, I liked the pictures from the show .. I am especially fond of this one .. and never get tired of seeing it ... It really helps me Mellow out .. :)
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab66/cec209/HersheyNScale2011093.jpg (http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab66/cec209/HersheyNScale2011093.jpg)
too funny
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Personally, I liked the pictures from the show .. I am especially fond of this one .. and never get tired of seeing it ... It really helps me Mellow out .. :)
I photographed that module for NSR back in 2007 at the San Diego convention. It's really impressive when taken as a time exposure with no flash, as the glow from the building fire really stands out.
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Dave... the mellow reference is the key in John's post ;)
I think I got the reference, but thanks. I did get the Atlas mod offer to buy me a beer though! I should have used that opportunity to push for a H10-44,
Best wishes, Dave
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I photographed that module for NSR back in 2007 at the San Diego convention. It's really impressive when taken as a time exposure with no flash, as the glow from the building fire really stands out.
I am quite serious .. I always see something new in it .. even though I see it every show that BANTRAK does .. sure, its a little long in the tooth, but many NTRAK modules are .. I am not a big fan of the godzilla, flying saucer, mothra ones, but when you see a full scale module of Thomas Viaduct on the B&O, (http://bantrak.net/images/moduleimages/MVC-190X.JPG)
or other scenes based on real locations
(http://bantrak.net/images/moduleimages/DSC00600.JPG)
then we can see the value of these layouts
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Something's not right about the viaduct. Isn't River Road on the wrong side of the valley floor? And are the steps there? (Technically, this isn't rivet counting.)
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Something's not right about the viaduct. Isn't River Road on the wrong side of the valley floor? And are the steps there? (Technically, this isn't rivet counting.)
there is a "river road" on both sides .. the other one is also known as leverning road ..
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there is a "river road" on both sides .. the other one is also known as leverning road ..
Right, there was one River Rd. that went into Daniels on the north side of the valley and one that, until hurricane Agnes, ran the length of the river on the south side and ended at Ilchester Rd. at the west end of Ilchester tunnel. Lawyers Hill Rd. used to cross the tracks at-grade and then go down the hill to Levering. Early on, there was some sort of plant that Levering ended at, that had a loading dock at track level fed by a siding that ended right at the south end of the viaduct. There was a covered ramp that went up grade to the track (http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8OVTOE49yto/TZ0PQAzshhI/AAAAAAAAAGs/3G6sjIeDEK8/s1600/Thomas+Viaduct+and+Hotel+1880+%25231.jpg (http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8OVTOE49yto/TZ0PQAzshhI/AAAAAAAAAGs/3G6sjIeDEK8/s1600/Thomas+Viaduct+and+Hotel+1880+%25231.jpg)).
If I did my research and excavation right, when that plant disappeared the Lawyers Hill Rd. grade crossing was removed and Levering was continued under the viaduct to become the southside River Road. When Agnes hit, the southside River Rd. was decimated along with the town of Daniels and both abandoned. What's left of that River Rd. is the park entry road (off of the present Lawyers Hill Rd.) which ends at a parking lot at the suspended bridge. You can still hike that rest of the way to Ilchester Rd. on sections of the old road's pavement that still cling to the valley side.
When I was young I used to walk down to Ellicott City proper from my home and hike the Chessie System, jumping trains when I could to get into Baltimore. I've explored that area extensively; even slept a night inside the old coaling tower. Not sure I'll ever do that again, since they started finding bodies along the tracks.
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The guy that built it - Mark Bandy - is an architect, and he tends to be pretty accurate with his models .. but remember, this is also a corner module that needs to meet standards .. maybe Martin will chime in here ..
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straying off topic here... but the big thing i always liked about that module was the hotel referenece and it's monument... that hotel is entirely scratch built and damn near spot on down to the cobblestones... if i recall correctly, at one point, that could have been used as an orange line spur off the front as well.
you are correct, there was some design sacrifices I am sure, but It is a crowd pleaser for sure... and is always one of 3 or 4 modules camera crew's flock too when we get coverage @ the B&O for the Festival of Trains.
EP
p.s. at one point, we were tossing the idea of the Old Main as a 1T theme... i thought that would be a good one.
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p.s. at one point, we were tossing the idea of the Old Main as a 1T theme... i thought that would be a good one.
It's unfortunate that we couldn't pull that off .. I really think that would be thing that revitalizes 1T
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Can't comment on what artistic license Mark employed on his Thomas module. As John commented, he goes for extreme accuracy on his models. His Mount Royal Station module and his Ellicott City Station models were done by photographing the prototype extensively. The photos were scanned to his computer where he scaled them then over-drew the photos mortar joint by mortar joint. After the drawings were complete, the walls were cut out on his laser. Results are that the model walls match stone for stone to the real thing. Same attention to details on trim. Of course scale does force constraints.
Martin Myers
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. The photos were scanned to his computer where he scaled them then over-drew the photos mortar joint by mortar joint. After the drawings were complete, the walls were cut out on his laser. Results are that the model walls match stone for stone to the real thing.
yeah, that AMAZED me when he actually matched the mortar using autocad... talk about value selling the prototype in a model!
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Personally, I liked the pictures from the show .. I am especially fond of this one .. and never get tired of seeing it ... It really helps me Mellow out .. :)
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab66/cec209/HersheyNScale2011093.jpg (http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab66/cec209/HersheyNScale2011093.jpg)
Personally, I like the scene. Structure fires are always intresting on modules and layouts, because you don't see well done ones very often.
But the former Fire fighter in me sees this and pulls my hair out, it isn't even close to how things would really be.
A handfull of things that are wrong, too many Big sticks, no fire department, or surrounding communitys have that many avaible to them, they are too close to the building, the hap hazard way they are parked, their is a lot, and I could go on and on about it.
I am actually thinking about adding a structure fire to my layout one of these days, and having everything set up the "Ideal" way.
wow, I am "that guy" now huh? LOL
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Okay, I had to check out the Atlas comments.. Yep, my head hurts.. ;D ;D
I am actually thinking about adding a structure fire to my layout one of these days, and having everything set up the "Ideal" way.
Can't wait to see it!
Art
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I am actually thinking about adding a structure fire to my layout one of these days, and having everything set up the "Ideal" way.
Hi Mike,
Rather than depicting a scene of violence and destruction, how about a creating an area used for fire training? I had always dreamed about creating a layout based on the Selkirk Branch, and there's just a fire training facility just outside Guilderland, NY (http://guilderlandfiredepartment.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=75&Itemid=37) that would be perfect (and right next to the CSX ROW - Google Maps (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=guilderland+ny&hl=en&ll=42.699473,-73.957204&spn=0.001788,0.004128&sll=33.953349,-117.396156&sspn=0.516593,1.056747&t=k&z=19)) - a three-story concrete and brick structure set ablaze every so often to keep the crews sharp. :)
Cheers!
Marc
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The Maryland Fire & Rescue Institute's main training center is spitting distance from the CSX mainline, also home to MARC trains, in College Park MD.
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Hi Mike,
Rather than depicting a scene of violence and destruction, how about a creating an area used for fire training? I had always dreamed about creating a layout based on the Selkirk Branch, and there's just a fire training facility just outside Guilderland, NY (http://guilderlandfiredepartment.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=75&Itemid=37) that would be perfect (and right next to the CSX ROW - Google Maps (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=guilderland+ny&hl=en&ll=42.699473,-73.957204&spn=0.001788,0.004128&sll=33.953349,-117.396156&sspn=0.516593,1.056747&t=k&z=19)) - a three-story concrete and brick structure set ablaze every so often to keep the crews sharp. :)
Cheers!
Marc
The Maryland Fire & Rescue Institute's main training center is spitting distance from the CSX mainline, also home to MARC trains, in College Park MD.
Didn't think about that! I like it! Consitering that the layout I am kinda working on right now is proto-lanced, their isn't any training grounds near the therotic line I am working. Although, I was thinking about doing a N trak Module, that might be a great scene. With a training ground I could do a search and rescue training, Haz-mat trainer..... I could really run with a N trak module and all that flat space! Old tank cars, old coaches, aircraft trainers, "Tower of doom," old Cars for extraction, etc etc etc, I could go on forever!!
On a side note, I am going to at least have a fire station on my current layout, I got a decent looking building, that could benifit from some weathering, and I got 3 fire trucks, one of the athearns rural pumper, a 3000 gal tanker I built a while ago, and a old Micro Machines areal I am working on "un toying." Although all are outside of my era, they will work untill I can build some era correct trucks, than those can go on the potential N Trak module.
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And Baltimore City's training site is off of CSX on the east side on Pulaski Highway.
I like the idea of the OML for a set of ONe trak modules... It's really a natural, since you split off there at St. Denis, then come back in at Point of Rocks... There's some neat vignettes along the way, too, such as the underpass at I70, and the tunnel under East New Market.
Lee
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And Baltimore City's training site is off of CSX on the east side on Pulaski Highway.
I like the idea of the OML for a set of ONe trak modules... It's really a natural, since you split off there at St. Denis, then come back in at Point of Rocks... There's some neat vignettes along the way, too, such as the underpass at I70, and the tunnel under East New Market.
Lee
Don't forget Ilchester with its tunnel and bridge combo. And, if you want to do it up nicely, an OML module could show sections of the former right-of-way and even some of the original stone stringers that are still in place in a few spots.
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The DC fire academy is located near the old B&O branch that went to St Elizabeth hospital. Now out of service but soon to see trolley service.
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Don't forget Ilchester with its tunnel and bridge combo. And, if you want to do it up nicely, an OML module could show sections of the former right-of-way and even some of the original stone stringers that are still in place in a few spots.
I believe that someone produces an accurate Ilchester bridge too.
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Personally, I like the scene. Structure fires are always intresting on modules and layouts, because you don't see well done ones very often.
But the former Fire fighter in me sees this and pulls my hair out, it isn't even close to how things would really be.
A handfull of things that are wrong, too many Big sticks, no fire department, or surrounding communitys have that many avaible to them, they are too close to the building, the hap hazard way they are parked, their is a lot, and I could go on and on about it.
I am actually thinking about adding a structure fire to my layout one of these days, and having everything set up the "Ideal" way.
wow, I am "that guy" now huh? LOL
I was the original that guy I couldn't believe my off hand comment got that much of a reaction over at Atlas. I posted there because I saw it there first (again, I seem to avoid pink sticky threads).
Anyway, I just don't see the humor or whimsy in something that dangerous. I have had many fire calls. Its not a pleasant experience to be on the phone with someone trapped in a fire. Waiting for the first units to get on scene makes me sick to my stomach.
The module is all wrong. And not a little wrong. Anyone with any sense whatsoever would notice the wall of the fully involved structure would colapse on the fire trucks. Seriously, didn't he look at ANY prototype pictures?
As I said before. Micro Machines suck just because there are some modelers, and I use the term loosly, who think they are accurate enough to use. Ugh!
What really made my loose my sh*t was seeing the water tender parked NEXT to the fire boat. Is this guy daft?
People die in these thinks. Its not cool. Its not whimsical. Its not thoughtfull or cute. Treat it with some damn respect.
Mike, its not finished, but I think it looks OK:
(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5265/5881348008_b659822d47_b.jpg)
(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5080/5880787987_0ebee45b0d_b.jpg)
(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6026/5881348186_2dc5961080_b.jpg)
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Daniel,
You must have missed the part of the Atlas thread where it was stated that the builder of the fire scene is a retired firefighter Chief. So I am guessing he knows all about the issues to which you refer. I understand that you have strong feelings about fire scenes, and a discussion of accurate modeling of such scenes would be a very interesting topic. The idea of a training facility is a good one, and here in Anchorage the AFD has some railcars that they use for practice.
Best wishes, Dave
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Don't forget Ilchester with its tunnel and bridge combo. And, if you want to do it up nicely, an OML module could show sections of the former right-of-way and even some of the original stone stringers that are still in place in a few spots.
There are so many sweet spots on the line. Like the old coal tower ruins further down from Ilchester tunnel/bridge's west end and Ellicott City, Sykesville (don't forget the buttery factory & the Springfield Dinkey), Henryton Hospital, Ijamsville, the remains of Mt. Airy loop and the Planes, Alpha Portland Cement, Doubs Rd., the Monacacy R. crossing & PoR, so many abandoned sections & realignments (like around Ilchester Hill & the old Bush Creek spur), and a lot of cool stone bridges and culverts (the Twin Arch bridge @ MP 38.4 & what I refer to as the hobbit culvert @ MP 33.3)... I guess the biggest question would be to place the line in double track time with two-tone blue or the year(s) of the cat and the primary color scheme? There's also the problem of, given the steep hillage and river crossings moving the track from one bank to the other, how to keep the trains in view of the of operators and audience.
@Daniel - while personal safety certainly is an issue, besides the 'wow' factor for the kidees, Baltimore's known for insurance fires claiming the city's significant industrial heritage and clearing the way for 'development' (often being a paved parking lot that sits empty for decades). So there is a tongue in cheek sensitivity for locals that non-Baltimorons may not appreciate, especially those closest to the danger side of the factor.
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As I said before. Micro Machines suck just because there are some modelers, and I use the term loosly, who think they are accurate enough to use. Ugh!
Daniel,
Accuracy is a moving target - what may be inaccurate for you is perfectly accurate for the person modeling the scene. Take for instance the module builder's use of Micro Machines - as you stated, in your mind they're toy-like, but the creator might have viewed the scene differently, and decided counting rivets wasn't his cup-o-tea. Now on to the image of your fire fighting rig - accurate for you, but it might not meet someone else's criteria for "accuracy" (door lines are several scale inches wide, there are silver dots in place of handles, the paint isn't smooth, and there's no glass on the windows, etc.).
As a professional modeler, I believe it's best to encourage all to do better, but not at the expense of hurt feelings - whether intended or not. If the modeling community were to hold everyone to an impossible high standard of accuracy, then there would be perhaps a handful of actual modelers - all others would run in fear of ridicule for their (perceived) feeble attempts at creating anything for themselves or others to enjoy, learn from, and marvel at. :)
Personally, I find your fire rig model magnificent. :)
Cheers!
Marc
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The paint has me a bit irritated. It seems no matter what I do, I just can't get a smooth finish latly.
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Keeping the track in full view wouldn't be a problem. I've found that a little "peek a boo" along the main line can be an attention getter. IIRC, Bernie's C&O set did a pretty good job of that.
Re: the fire scene, let it go. Yes, it's something you're close to, and yes, it's something you would do differently. But what you're saying (apart from the danger to life and limb) would be akin to Puddington cutting me off at the knees because my paper mill doesn't look like a paper mill. Like any model railroad endeavor, one starts with X amount of space, and has X amount of goals that one wishes to shoe-horn into that space. The trucks are too close to the building because to scale it out properly might have required a module that wouldn't fit in the guy's minivan. I'm sure it wasn't out of some cruel hatred or wanton disregard for the skill and bravery of firefighters.
Now back to the Old Main Line... Remember back when Ed hatched the scheme to build the Horseshoe Curve on N trak standards? As iconic as that would be, the OML presents some much more interesting possibilities. First, the overall distance is shorter, the scenery is more "intimate" (i.e. easier to represent on relatively small modules) and it fits very nicely into the OneTrak scheme of things, wherein single or double track can be done as a standard, curves and grades are a possibility (although grades would be less necessary since the terrain can be more effectively manipulated), and of course, my pet peeve, better looking track can be used.
If this is a project anyone is interested in pursuing, either within or without Bantrak, I'll throw my hat in.
Lee
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Hi Daniel,
What is the material of the model (plastic, resin, metal, etc.)? You might try using automotive lacquer - the same used in small touch-up bottles, but it would need to be thinned and sprayed using an airbrush (test on a separate piece to ensure the material isn't destroyed). Then after a day or two (provided you don't get orange peel or other anomalies), polish with Pearl Drops or regular toothpaste - not the gel type - until you get the results you're after. Only afterward would you detail the trim and other areas.
Cheers!
Marc
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I was the original that guy I couldn't believe my off hand comment got that much of a reaction over at Atlas. I posted there because I saw it there first (again, I seem to avoid pink sticky threads).
Anyway, I just don't see the humor or whimsy in something that dangerous. I have had many fire calls. Its not a pleasant experience to be on the phone with someone trapped in a fire. Waiting for the first units to get on scene makes me sick to my stomach.
The module is all wrong. And not a little wrong. Anyone with any sense whatsoever would notice the wall of the fully involved structure would colapse on the fire trucks. Seriously, didn't he look at ANY prototype pictures?
As I said before. Micro Machines suck just because there are some modelers, and I use the term loosly, who think they are accurate enough to use. Ugh!
What really made my loose my sh*t was seeing the water tender parked NEXT to the fire boat. Is this guy daft?
People die in these thinks. Its not cool. Its not whimsical. Its not thoughtfull or cute. Treat it with some damn respect.
Mike, its not finished, but I think it looks OK:
(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5265/5881348008_b659822d47_b.jpg)
(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5080/5880787987_0ebee45b0d_b.jpg)
(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6026/5881348186_2dc5961080_b.jpg)
Hey Dan, I was a firefighter from 1996 untill 2009, Voulenteer the entire time period, from 2001 to 2006 I was a fire fighter for the army, and 2007 I was a temp. Firefighter for McChord AFB. I know all about it. I have always said, regardless of the scene being modeled, with Techincal scenes you should be accurate as possible, if you are doing a emergency scene, you should do the research and model it right, if you are modeling a car shop, do the research and model it as corect as possible, even something like a baseball field should be modeled accuratly. I understand that space restraints can effect how accurate you can be, But this one is just too.....I dunno. He knew his restraint on size. It would have been better to model a smaller building accuratly, then this. If this guy is a retired cheif, and this is accurate to how he would have ran a fire scene. I wouldn't ever wanted to work for him, this kind of cluster **** would have got people killed. I only mad it as far as driver before having to call it quits (wife decided to stay in the army.) and even I know that this is wrong. Like I said before, I could go one for a whole page or two about how this is totally wrong, But, Unless someone wants me to, I will leave it alone.
Also, I like your stick there, is it totally scratchbuilt? I am modeling 1945ish-1955ish so I got some building to do for trucks. I have not even started on them yet. The micro machine truck I am using is this one:
(http://www.m2museum.com/FireRescue/dcp_1182.jpg)
I know the dimentions are totally off, but I already had it, so I figured I would at least take a look at it. I think it is actually going to be way too small overall. But this project is beyond the back burner for a really long time. Reality, I will probally have to scratch build everything if I want it to look remotely accurate.
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Now back to the Old Main Line... Remember back when Ed hatched the scheme to build the Horseshoe Curve on N trak standards? As iconic as that would be, the OML presents some much more interesting possibilities. First, the overall distance is shorter, the scenery is more "intimate" (i.e. easier to represent on relatively small modules) and it fits very nicely into the OneTrak scheme of things, wherein single or double track can be done as a standard, curves and grades are a possibility (although grades would be less necessary since the terrain can be more effectively manipulated), and of course, my pet peeve, better looking track can be used.
If this is a project anyone is interested in pursuing, either within or without Bantrak, I'll throw my hat in.
Lee
I'd be interested (once I figure out if I'm staying in the area). I do like the concept, especially if it's set when the stripe variations and sunbursts were prominent (solid blue makes me sad and primary colors angry), with double track and lineside industries still in place, and targeted to MMUT aesthetic standards. I like the idea of featuring a switching-intensive industrial Baltimore Terminal Line (though there'd have to be some sort of yard) and Brunswick with a (relatively) full-size yard and engine facility; and of (eventually) the two DC branches (@ Relay and PoR) forming a connecting return loop, rather than a simple balloon loop at each end.
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There are only two issues with the OML:
1. There's no online industries any more, that I know of.
2. There's very little traffic on it.
It's sure pretty, but I'd recommend it for railfans, because you're not going to see many trains on it.
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It's sure pretty, but I'd recommend it for railfans, because you're not going to see many trains on it.
(http://arch.413chan.net/ba_dum_tss-(n1297096883801).png)
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There are only two issues with the OML:
1. There's no online industries any more, that I know of.
2. There's very little traffic on it.
It's sure pretty, but I'd recommend it for railfans, because you're not going to see many trains on it.
That's why you set the project back during a time when there were running industries - like the pulp plant in Ilchester, Washington flour mill in EC (maybe even the furniture factory in Oella); C.R. Daniels fabric factory in Daniels; the feed outlet, butter factory, and lumber yard in Sykesville; Frederick had numerous industries; etc. - and trains ran (passenger trains!). Back when locomotives and their paint schemes actually looked good, not today or even 40 years ago.
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Did the B&O and PRR have a connection in Frederick back in the day?
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Um. I'm confused. If we're talking about designing modules for a oNeTrak layout to join with a BANTRAK Ntrak layout, does it really matter if there are enough industries on the OML to justify operations? Wouldn't the layout be just for running anyway (like Ntrak)? For that matter, would it really be 100% necessary to stick to a specific era and model the line as accurately as possible? No offense intended to the Ntrak guys, but concerns for anachronisms on a oNeTrak layout that is connected to an Ntrak layout seems out of place to me.
DFF
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I wouldn't be partial to a BANtrak union. What's the benefit?
The idea of sticking to a time period definitely ties everything together in terms of aesthetics. Take a look at the Mini-Mod-U-Trak modules. The place and 50s-60s time period restrictions on locos, rolling stock, structures, and details ties it all together and is a reflection on the high quality of modeling. Otherwise, might as well stick with the code 80 three track Mothra mish mash.
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I wouldn't be partial to a BANtrak union. What's the benefit?
well, it is the BANTRAK 1T division I am talking about ..
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The idea of sticking to a time period definitely ties everything together in terms of aesthetics. Take a look at the Mini-Mod-U-Trak modules. The place and 50s-60s time period restrictions on locos, rolling stock, structures, and details ties it all together and is a reflection on the high quality of modeling. Otherwise, might as well stick with the code 80 three track Mothra mish mash.
What you suggest is exactly what I'm thinking- pick an era with relaxed restrictions rather than a specific date. For example, modeling the 1950s-60s (as you wrote that Mini-Mod-U-Trak does) is actually quite a span that covers the end of steam through second generation diesels. I guess my point is, for the purpose of a oNeTrak module that will connect to an Ntrak layout, do we need to be really concerned that Industry X existed in 1960 but was gone by 1975? It's not difficult to design modules that can represent different eras by swapping out trains and vehicles... and even buildings if it's that important. Otherwise, with such stringent rules, we would have to worry about when the line was double track versus single track and pick just one. That doesn't sound like as much fun for this purpose. Obviously, for the home layout, I have no problem with modeling a certain time period that may even be narrowed down to one specific day.
DFF
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Otherwise, with such stringent rules, we would have to worry about when the line was double track versus single track and pick just one. That doesn't sound like as much fun for this purpose.
Huh? What? You kinda do, don't you? If you model the line double track you're de facto limiting it to a certain time period - prior to 1960, when the line was single-tracked to take advantage of the higher clearance lines at the center of the tunnels.
I'm not that much of a purest, so if you were to build double track and run equipment new past 1959, I wouldn't cry out. But the closer that build or repaint date got to 1969 the more tempted I would be to do so, until I burst, probably around '67 or '68 actually. Same for industries (of course, most of the industries were wiped out with Agnes anyway - June of 1972). And if there were the occasional running of some of today's ugly locos, I probably wouldn't mind.
Here's the trade off - clearance for such would need to be factored into such operations for the same reason the B&O went single track - to accommodate higher clearance modern cars. If you planned on running the occasional double stack on a double track line this decision would have an aesthetic impact, since the clearances would need to be significantly altered to do so. IMO, dropping the tracks that far down for double track at a tunnel portal would create a noticeable visual effect. With MMUT it's different, they don't have tunnels to worry about, just the occasional bridge. The OML has 11.
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Take a look at the Mini-Mod-U-Trak modules. The place and 50s-60s time period restrictions on locos, rolling stock, structures, and details ties it all together and is a reflection on the high quality of modeling.
We're not that strick. Mike lets me run Amtrak (circa 1998) for cryin' out loud!
I'm with Lee on this one. I think module is doing what it was intended. Getting people to stop and look (for a good reason), and get the kids interest piqued. There's a module at Trainfest every year that has a race track on it. The Micromachine cars are all powered by magnets, as they run the course. It's really cool to watch, even for an a$$hat. ;)
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We're not that strick. Mike lets me run Amtrak (circa 1998) for cryin' out loud!
Read the whole dialogue, that's addressed. What MMUT doesn't skimp on is in terms of era is scenery/structures/details. Again, it creates aesthetic cohesiveness.
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Hmm... I thought this thread was about the convention... folks were taking pot shots at the A forum for straying from the topic yet now this one as well has strayed. Oh well, guess I can wait for the on-line announcements to see what is coming though I would have liked to learn more about it here.
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Lots of good stuff coming. The Trainworx TOFC car looked spectacular. New trucks with properly contoured metal wheels and body-mounted couplers integrated into the body. The model also will come with container pedestals that can be snapped in place, or removed for trailer cargo. The body is mostly metal with the the top face and side channels being plastic that snap into the diecast part.
Also, while the first release of FVM Wagontops will not feature schemes from the 1950s, Prototype N Scale Models will be offering a three-pack of Wagontops featuring three schemes from the 1950s, including two Timesaver schemes. They will be available at the same time as the first stock run, around Labor Day. One note with the Wagontops - the metal wheels included are the new "wide-tread" wheels, so most of the modelers on this board will want to substitute standard FVM or BLMA wheelsets.
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Lots of good stuff coming. The Trainworx TOFC car looked spectacular. New trucks with properly contoured metal wheels and body-mounted couplers integrated into the body. The model also will come with container pedestals that can be snapped in place, or removed for trailer cargo. The body is mostly metal with the the top face and side channels being plastic that snap into the diecast part.
It looks as if the riser boards were molded as part of the deck. Do you recall anything about that?
Jason
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It looks as if the riser boards were molded as part of the deck. Do you recall anything about that?
(http://www.bbussey.net/rr/TWtofcTT.jpg)
Click on photo to see super-sized. Risers are separate pieces that snap into the deck.
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Prototype N Scale Models will be offering a three-pack of Wagontops featuring three schemes from the 1950s, including two Timesaver schemes.
bryan
do you have a link to this?
also... Lowell Smith announced a 2rd Carolwood Pacific car. So if you are closet CP fan, you're in luck in November. In addition, artwork for his 2011 Disney Christmas Car featured old school original Mickey Mouse. Pretty nice actually.
I pushed Kato for a NKP version of their NW2's and he took a note... maybe that is a decent sign it might actually get discussed in meetings???
Intermountain talked about enhancing their packaging for their cars relative to their lighting system. Something to reduce the change of the battery contacts getting pushed around during the "opening the package" process.
FVM has those sweet wagontops in a green scheme for express service, there are plenty of scheme's those could be done in.
Soundtraxx had their surround sound system there... impressive, expensive ($500), and still in the early adopter phase (IMO).
EP
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bryan
do you have a link to this?
Eric, I do not as George to my knowledge does not have a website. But he had an announcement at his table. He usually sends email announcements out, so I will be sure to post that on Railwire when I receive it.
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Right-click on photo to see super-sized.
Thanks.
Jason
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Read the whole dialogue, that's addressed. What MMUT doesn't skimp on is in terms of era is scenery/structures/details. Again, it creates aesthetic cohesiveness.
Last I checked you used the term restrictions.
The place and 50s-60s time period restrictions on locos, rolling stock, structures, and details ties it all together and is a reflection on the high quality of modeling.
Only pointing out we aren't that anal, unless we're at the National Train Show. I guess I should have followed it with one of these: ;)
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Last I checked you used the term restrictions.
I'm really not the sort of guy that has to have the last word, but I do need to tenaciously defend my point; either you guys have some sort of generally-accepted, written or verbally-communicated restrictions or there's an amazing mind-meld going on within the group that you've all decided to back date the locales to around the 50s, use 1950s-era vehicles (although I've not authenticated the Weiner mobile yet), '50s-era details (no modern Coke machines at any of the stations, billboards along the highway...), etc. A freakin' coincidence? ;D
I've seen the pics of the modern equipment on the modules, I know about that, but you've got a (back-dated) aesthetic going on for presentation.
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^ To which I'll agree on every point. No matter what we run, there's always somewhere on the layout, where it looks like it fits in. Except for Jamie's Daylight. :-X
Yes. The main restriction is the time period. I just didn't want anyone to think we're that anal retentive about what we run. Mike wishes we were, but we hog tie him down on Sundays, and anything goes. ;D
I love MiNi, because as a modern modeler myself - and not midwest either, it's forced me to take on some modeling projects I would never have thought of doing. Never would I have thought of modeling C&EI. In N scale no less. :P