I’m about 14 months into my current episode of the model railroading journey and this forum has been a great help to me. I thought it might be interesting for folks to list some things that have been most helpful to them (from the forum). It occurs to me that newer modelers might get some leads that might help them, or I might pick up on some items that I should investigate more. Newcomers, note that there is a search item on the right column, a way to “favorite a thread” for reference, or folks may point you to a thread they like that addresses an inquiry.
That said, I’ll nominate 5 areas where I’ve gained a lot from this forum:
track planning software
track laying details (roadbed and track)
turnouts / Tortoise installation
good online rail model suppliers
good reference booklets to purchase (e.g., scenery)
If I were to choose one thing that I learned it would be about proper layout planning.
A while ago I posted a track plan which I had been working on for quite some time. Like almost all newbies I thought my plan was fantastic.
I didn’t get a whole lot of responses to my thread but the ones I did get showed me that my plan was poor at best. In fact, it was a disaster. Most notably, it would have not allowed me to perform the sort of operations that I had envisaged. Also, there simply was not enough switching opportunities to keep the layout from getting boring real fast, and the yard was unworkable.
I was also advised to get a copy of John Armstrong’s “Track Planning For Realistic Operation” http://www.kalmbachstore.com/12148.html. That book really helped me understand what I needed to do to make the layout work.
I have received help with countless other issues but the lousey track plan was the most significant.
For me, it’s been learning what is possible to do. I credit Weekend Photo Fun for this. Each week, we display our progress, and how our layouts look. As a scenery guy, I looked at the incredible work of others and told myself, “I can do better.” It helped me to set the bar higher for what I wanted my layout to look like.
“I can do better” isn’t a matter of natural talent. It’s just patience, and not letting time pressure intrude. This is not a race to the finish. I can take as much time as I want, and just knowing that, and admitting it to myself, has been the key to better, and happier, modeling.
Thanks for the pointer, Mr B, to the Weekend Photo Fun thread. I had not checked these out. I ought to get into some of the “routine” threads for more enjoyment, insight and learning. I’ve probably been too much toward the “technical” side early on and could enjoy the “community” side some more.
I find it difficult to find a “catagory” to fit your question into. It is more the ability to ask a question and get one or more answers on ways to do what I am trying to do. By having multiple suggestions, it gives me the opportunity to choose the “best” method for me. At this time probably scenery ideas have dominated my learning, whether I asked the question or saw someone elses question. However, at any time I may have a question on another subject, that, at that time, would make that the most important. The variety and scope of knowledge available here is amazing.
P.S. To the OP, Northcoast RR was referring to another thread that has gotten out of hand. It has perhaps the least useful “How To” ever posted. Nothing to do with you. He apologizes (I hope) for stealing your thread.
One thing that comes to mind is Bullfrog manual turnout control. I had never heard of them without the forum. Not necessarily a help in building a model railroad but I really enjoy Elliotts Diner.
I’ve been a member for along time and the most helpful things that have helped me is the “advice” i got. i asked numerous questions in years past and always got GOOD answers and advice…thank you forum members.
Ahhh, at last a question that will bring out the best in us…
I first got on this forum back in 2000 (to the best of my recall) to learn more about the MRC Controlmaster 20s. Since then, I’ve found the Forum to easily be the best source of MR info and opinions and displays of members’ works. I’ve found the vast majority of participants to be helpful and a pleasure to communicate with.
Actually, if not for the Forum, I sometimes wonder if I would still be in the Hobby. In 2007/8, I was faced with the need for a new layout - or not. Thru the Forum, I got over my fear of DCC, built the new layout, and haven’t looked back. The knowledge, advice, inspiration, and confidence I got from you all just can’t be beat.
OK, but you know the most important thing I got out of the Forum? Well, I met up with a couple of folks that have turned out to be very good “email” friends, whom I cherish very much.
I joined the forums originally in either 2000 or 2001. Other than the posts by Rich and Brent I have benefited from the forums on several topics. The most important to me is the maintenance and improvement of my locomotives and rolling stock. An example is the P-2000 GP20 i own that I could have sworn had a flat wheel. It bounced all over the place. Frustrated by this it was boxed and spent a lot of time on the shelf. Then I read here about the cracked gear syndrome and made the rather easy repair. The locomotive now sees regular run time. Other topics that have benefited me greatly are Kadee couplers, metal Wheels, additional weights, better electrical contacts and replacement motors locomotive tune ups.
Last but not least Weekend Photo Fun is my favorite topic of all and I try to participate as much as possible.
It is difficult for me to point to one specific item or series that have been the most help for me. I guess that I would have to mention the help and information that I have obtained about DCC, scenery and operations. I have been a member here since 2005 and have really benefited from the discussions and viewpoints of others on a multitude of points.
The constructive criticism, given by members that truly know. Of course, this takes awhile to figure out who really knows what vs who is giving out bad information or padding their post count.
Attaboys and pats on the back are no help for someone who is misdirected or simply doing it wrong. Suggesting a better way (by the veterans) is always appreciated.
WPF is an excellent way to see what can be accomplished, I am always looking to improve, if you think you “got it figured out”, you probably don’t , because the bar is being raised constantly. This fits me, some folks don’t care, which is fine also.
Here is an example of what can be accomplished today.
Since we don’t know the other person on the keyboard some times a “good job” or a simple “well done” can help.
Why?
We don’t know their skill limitations or if they are disabled in some manner.A little kindness can speak volumes.No need to throw out information that may not be wanted.
There’s two types of modelers those that learn through books and magazines and those with hands on experience.
I intend to listen to those with hands on experience since they been there/done that.
In general I get great tips by asking good questions. Sometimes my questions are a little hazy. To all those past and present I sincerely Thank You as you help make MR fun for me.[*]
