Lance Mindheim new project in N scale

[OldEastRR]

I dunno ... starting an N layout with the mindset "Jeez, there's not much in N compared to HO" seems like a predisposition to cancel the project at any time. A true N scaler knows he's never going to find half the stuff he'd like for his chosen railroad, and so is inclined to do what he can with what's available. Even then he knows to get some stuff he's going to have to rebuild or kitbash some similar model into the version he needs. We're still waiting for a single-window heavyweight coach, a basic heavyweight car used by many railroads! A car that's been available in HO for half a century....

[thomasjmdavis]

I don't care. really, WHY Lance Mindheim builds a lot of layouts.  I am just happy that he shares them with the rest of us, because there are loads of good ideas and some outstanding modeling.

I need to turn off the computer and build something- the biggest problem I have is I spend too much time reading about it and not enough time doing it.

[coosvalley]

I loved following along as he built the Downtown spur, was kinda bummed when he took down the build thread.. In some cases I really like what he does, other times not so much. Putting locks on switch controls seemed very silly to me. I know, operations, bla bla, admittedly not my thing....But his layouts are very inspirational, and he proves that less can be more.

I'm curious to see what he will use for track. I remember reading he suggests Peco code 80 to his n scale customers, for reliability, a stance which I understand, even if I find the idea absurd.(If I'm paying someone to do it, I would expect/want it to look and operate exceptional)

[mark dance]

I got a chance to operate Lance's new layout (and the LA junction layout) two days ago.

It was lots of fun...some interesting ideas and a couple that may need a bit more time and thinking. Overall a good time and he is a great model rail thinker and modeller.

Also operated on Bernie Kempinski's Aquila Line. Quite an experience. Uncoupling the link and pin couplers was easier than uncoupling HO Kadees! Coupling up? Not quite so easy...

The highlight was figuring out how to get out of a sticky situation by poling! It worked very well. I understand a video of it is trending on social media though I haven't seen it☺

 Photos when I get the chance

Md

[tom mann]

Mark you sound like you’re close by me too.

[johnb]

The LAJ in N scale would have been a better choice. The expanse allowed by N to fit the bridges, street running, and curious architecture would be more fitting to N scale than the verticality of NYC warehouses and manufacturing. Just my opinion...

the issue with the LAJ in N is the signature locos not being available in N (with the exception of Randgust's kit)

[Dave V]

I dunno ... starting an N layout with the mindset "Jeez, there's not much in N compared to HO" seems like a predisposition to cancel the project at any time. A true N scaler knows he's never going to find half the stuff he'd like for his chosen railroad, and so is inclined to do what he can with what's available. Even then he knows to get some stuff he's going to have to rebuild or kitbash some similar model into the version he needs. We're still waiting for a single-window heavyweight coach, a basic heavyweight car used by many railroads! A car that's been available in HO for half a century....

I think you'll find Lance Mindheim is a true N scaler.

http://www.monon.org/mindheim.html

[Spades]

His progress to date. http://lancemindheim.com/category/brooklyn-terminal/

[mark dance]

Mark you sound like you’re close by me too.

Perhaps Tom...I am in Rockville just outside of DC for an operating event. Paul Doklos' amazing layout yesterday as well as Bernies' and Lances'. Mary Miller's exquisite On3 layout tomorrow then head for home early Tuesday!

[svedblen]

Also operated on Bernie Kempinski's Aquila Line. Quite an experience. Uncoupling the link and pin couplers was easier than uncoupling HO Kadees! Coupling up? Not quite so easy...

The highlight was figuring out how to get out of a sticky situation by poling! It worked very well. I understand a video of it is trending on social media though I haven't seen it☺

The video can be found on Bernie's blog http://usmrr.blogspot.se/2018/04/prorail-2018-update.html
An applied pole is seen at the 3:54 mark and actual poling happens at 4:33 

[Ed Kapuscinski]

They look awesome in all the publications I have seen so far. But I‘ve always wondered how they would look like in person. Seeing „photos in photos“ gives a very consistent look, but do they still fit once you experience the photo look within a layout built from traditional material?

They look even better in person!

[Ed Kapuscinski]

Perhaps Tom...I am in Rockville just outside of DC for an operating event. Paul Doklos' amazing layout yesterday as well as Bernies' and Lances'. Mary Miller's exquisite On3 layout tomorrow then head for home early Tuesday!

Wait, what are you doing tonight? There's still time to come see the NCR!

[mark dance]

Wait, what are you doing tonight? There's still time to come see the NCR!

Ahhhh...too bad! Sorry Ed. I head for Dulles in a few hours

Md

[Ed Kapuscinski]

Ahhhh...too bad! Sorry Ed. I head for Dulles in a few hours

Md

So bummed! Next time you come east you gotta give us some warning to setup the a$$hat Welcoming Committee!

[mark dance]

So bummed! Next time you come east you gotta give us some warning to setup the a$$hat Welcoming Committee!

...well, now that I know I am welcome!:)

md