Recent content by OldGuyHO

Is this a recent occurrence on normally functioning track? New track configuration? New loco? Normally you would need a reversing module on a figure 8 (I am ready to be corrected). It sounds like your loco is shorting the track.

it's 160 feet high 1:1 so the model would be 22" tall!!

I was going to recommend microscope slide covers, but Espeefan beat me to it. For foreground structures, it's the best.

If you really wanted to go dead rail, how about real steam in HO!

To quote "Roadhouse": "Opinions vary". The operating sessions that I have been a part, few as they have been, were fun. Not "You can't do that!", "YOUR GOING TOO FAST, REDUCE SPEED 10%". I like operations. But my likes and dislikes don't rule the world. Neither does anyone else in this hobby.

I'm contemplating not only running foreign motive power but multiple eras:1959 and relatively current. I haven't decided on the newer road name but it'll probably be UP.

I've seen clouds like that one over my house. I just didn't have the foresight to run over to the tracks and get a train in the picture.

I like foam over plywood, BUT it does complicate turnout installation if you use under-railroad turnout control, like Tortoise machines. Other than that, it's your choice.

The US was the only country that prohibited pro athletes from representing. They don't anymore.

Wouldn't ya know it. Model Railroader has a video this month of this very thing. Spooky.

I have read that solid wire is recommended for the buss on DCC systems, but I don't know why. I use 18g feeders and 14g buss wire. Every section of track should have a feeder, be it a full length of flextrack or a 9" piece. I also would recommend suitcase connectors over trying to solder to the...

Tortoise machines use a positive pressure on the points when they are thrown to keep the points tight to the rail(s), so it's "always on". If you're using turnouts with built in springs, you will want to take them out for use with the turtles.

I use Macs now almost exclusively. I have a Win10 laptop but haven't used it in months.

As a boy, I had the privilege of seeing big steam up close. My father kept pace with a steam engine in Louisiana for miles as I draped myself on the back window and just stared in awe. It looked alive! I also rode passenger between Ft Worth, Texas and Birmingham, AL through New Orleans. Riding...

I check resistance on the circuit. If the resistance is zero (or close to it for a VERY long lead) then the circuit is most likely good. The downside of this analysis is that a circuit under load may fail. If your solder joints are good (shiny solder, mechanically strong) and your connections...