I have a question, is there anyone here in the states that run overhead electic cantanery on the mainline, i.e. Northeast Corridor style? I have an AEM-7 engine and an Acela trainset. I would like to purchase, in the future, an HHP-8 and run some electic overhead trains. where could I find info on setting up a section of my my layout for this? And since I’m electically inclined are there kits that I could do this? Is DCC compatible with overhead catanery?
Also, are there anywhere to purchase modern light rail vehicles or similar vehicles?
I haven’t done any overhead wire myself and I don’t think there’s a whole lot of folks that do. Although I may try making a mini layout of a trolly system in the future.
Do a check of Model Railroader back issues. I recall there was some article on overhead.
The only link for overhead catenary I have at the moment is BECK’S KITS.
However the style is more like for trollys and trams in the U.K.
You should check out http://www.eastpenn.org/ for the East Penn Traction Club. While modelling the modern electrified lines like the Northeast Corridor is not too common, you’ll find a lot of us are really fond of trolleys. I don’t have overhead wires (yet,) but plenty of people do.
Oh, and welcome aboard! Always glad to see a new member.
Check out the August 2004 MR…
Yes and no.
Yes, I am in the United States and model mainline electric operations.
No, my prototype is not American.
No, my catenary isn’t up yet.
The prototype is the Japan National Railway Chuo-Nishi Hon Sen, 2000vdc overhead distribution. My collection includes a variety of passenger and freight motors (probably a wider variety than the prototype used on that route) plus mainline style EMU cars. My catenary will go up after I’m sure that the specialwork under it will operate dependably.
In the meantime, my motors operate with the (purely cosmetic) pantographs down.
When I do build the overhead, I will be working from photos - my own, and those published in Japanese language railfan magazines.
I did a search of the downloadable articles on the M.R. site and found that they do offer an article on Modeling Electrified Railroads ( Formerly: Beginning traction modeling). The charge is $14.95 less 40% off for this months March Madness special. Visit the M.R. Home Page for more info.
Check out the post in Toy Train section and look up the post called "Trolley Pole & Wire dated 1-6-06 . You will see some pictures of Fleischmann running on live cantenary.
beat me to it. i was going to suggest looking to the NH as a prototype.
I model the traction era but with single wire overhead that is powered.
We also have a modual that we show, called the traction in action.
You will find like minded folk here
http://2guyzandsumtrains.com/Forums/viewforum/f=8.html
Also you will find a “how to make your own overhead poles”.
Hope it helps you get started.
Shawn, here are some sites I have in my Favorites that I book marked on catenary modeling and models. You can find a load of info by browsing these sites. Hope this helps.
http://www.info-4u.com/modelmemories/
http://www.prrnortheastcorridor.com/
http://www.prrnortheastcorridor.com/LINKS.html