My layout is operational and most, if not all of the “kinks”, have been eliminated. My layout is a “loosely” modeled section of the New Haven railroad, with the New London yard at the center of the mainline. We have through freights coming in from both east and west staging and an interchange Central Vermont train coming in from the north. Basically, one guy operates the yard, 2 others run locals out east and west and another guy runs passenger trains/budd cars/through freights.
Let me say that we don’t use fast clocks and there is no pressure. We use a car/card system to direct engineers as to which cars are set-outs and pick-ups. Again, just a couple of hours of running trains and then a bull session.
If you’re not interested in operating and just want to visit to see my layout, that’s okay. I’m always anxious to share my layout with others.
I live in Rocky Hill, about 2 miles off Route 91. If you’re interested, please email me.
Just so you know, I’m not a young kid. I’m a young 59, going on 5 when it comes to trains.
[:)] Hi, Mondotrains. Thank you for being a sharer of this great hobby. I grew up in Springfield, Mass. I now reside in So.Florida, but when I next get to visit my extended family, I would like to visit your layout. I will alert you of any future travel your way.
I would be glad to! I need to check with my parents, and I’m not sure how often I can get there.
I use a similer system, car cards and 4 cycle waybills, so I won’t feel pressured. I have operated several layouts, 3 of them owned by adults, so I am used to taking stuff as it comes. I don’t know if you want a 13 year old operating your layout; but I will tell you I am completly serious about it; and won’t mess around or be reckless. If it’s OK with you; I’d love to see your layout and hopefully make some new friends.
You are welcome, and considering you’re too young to drive, then I would assume your mom and dad will take you over to see my layout. Is your dad into trains? Email me regarding a day/time that your parents could bring you here.
Steemtrayn has an interesting point. Definitely try to catch some of the Big E rush. Just a tiny correction: the show is in West Springfield, MA.
I am about 2 hours away from Hartford, and like Tyler, I’m too young to drive. I’m 15, but I take this hobby completely seriously. I have operated several basement and club layouts and am used to pressured and unpressured situations involving dispatching, CC&WB, TWC, et cetera.
We do make periodic trips down to New York City via Hartford, so I’d appreciate being able to visit. I’m sorry that I would not be able to come regularly.