i’m not sure how possible that is on a 4 x 8 , thats why you need to build the big layout , and it has to have an option for continous running , a big loop for your son to run a train on while you do some switching somewhere . oh , and be sure you’re not fouling the main when he drives by [:)]
Here is the layout sans everything.
The two outer loops are the main. You can run continuously around the layout without getting into Train City. That is what my son usually does. In fact, the most successful running session we had had Pixie (a 4-4-0) and Darkie (an unlettered old-time 2-6-0) running continuously on the inner circle. Simultaneously, Dixie (Shane’s 2-8-0) and Espy (an SP old-time 2-6-0 that I ran) made the two outer circuits. So four trains running.
If I wanted to switch on the inner loop, the only problem I would face is needing the run around to the left to switch out the the single track nearby. Switching out the mine spur would be a different story unless I used a dedicated switcher to make the moves.
Where did you get those loads?
Trainboy
Space Mouse,
I’ve been following your adventure with the kids with interest. In your initial post about the OP Session, you mentioned that your son is autistic. My youngest grandson has Downs Syndrome and has an attention span sometimes measured in micro-seconds[:)]. He just turned 9, is strong as an ox and believes that he is 10 feet tall and bullet-proof! His reasoning skills are excellent and if he wants to, he can figure out how to do just about anything. Problem is, he has a hard time mastering concepts such as “slow”, “easy”, “careful”, etc. He would rather take the train apart to see what makes it go than run it. On the other hand, if you want someone to drive your tractor, he’s your man. So, I’ll follow your progress with interest.
Chuck
Chuck,
The autism part certainly increases the challenge. The good news is that we found a supplement program that really turned him around–to the point that doctors have questioned his diagnosis. Not that we can’t tell though.
He has no problem with attention span–as long as it is what he wants to do. I really have to give him a lot of credit. There were adverse circumstance with this session. He tried to play the game. That his sister messed up and more or less stomped off, set the tone. He still worked the list for 20 minutes or so after she stomped off.
The fact that he was playing my game was significant. Tonight I will play his game with the running dialog between Dixie, Pixie, Darkie, and Espy. I will sit and wait while he describes the sights to the passengers while stopped on the bridge. When I do this, ESPY spends most of the session parked behind his sight seeing tour.
Good luck to you
CHip,
One thing that my daughter and her friends loved to do was load and unload figures, boxes, animals etc. from gondolas. They would fill up a couple of gons with stuff and go out for a spin on the main…They were playing more than operating, but it did keep interest up…
I think I have some Tyco gondolas, flatcars, etc. Maybe I’ll see if a Kaydee will work. Hagrid glue-footed to a flatcar might be a hit.
Spacemouse,I am a 13 year old model railroader. I am going to start my 2 and 3 layouts. Try to let your kids just run the trains the way the want then the might like it more, the might even tell you to build a bigger layout ![:D]
I hear you. But I’ve already started the Basement Remodel to get the big layout in. The 4 x 8 won’t fit. I hate to give it up though.
sounds like you’'re getting it worked out chip , keep us posted , it’s fun reading about your operating sessions after an hour of grinding my way through ‘track planning for realistic operations’ !
There’s a specific Kadee conversion that pops right in the Tyco trucks. I have one such car with just a single Kadee, the horn-hook is still on the other end.
Good Point
Small thought:
ATLAS slide switches are somewhat difficult to read . Next time use Toggle’s and set toggle position’s for NORM or Mainline vs. ‘Deviation’. Position of a toggle in a different direction act’s like flag, as does a red inticator light.
keep us posted, this is a fun read. and hey, atleast they didn’t pick up the trains and turn them into planes and “accidentaly” drop them. [oops] this is why my little brothers will only be watching me run my layout when it’s done.
There are toggles and red and green LEDs