I have had a pair of Athearn PA-1's converted to DCC with the sound unit in the A Dummy. However, that engine has the normal plastic wheels which run okay, but I'd like to convert them to steel ones. What are the sizes of these wheels? Does anyone make a replacement? Can I rob wheels from some other derelict engine?

I know they are not standard 33 (freight) or 36 (passenger) wheels, but have no way of measuring them against any list in the various catalogs. Am I stuck with these or can they be replaced with steel ones? Thanks, in advance, for your input.

One of the things I learned in the military and in life is not to be afraid to make a decision. That's because I know you can always make another decision.

Take a brief tour of the Keystone Midland Railroad. Go here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JhkIRFRlZiM This is our first "attempt" at a video production and is a bit rough in spots, but will give you an idea of our club layout near Harrisbug, PA. 

After a combat tour in Vietnam, we wrote what are called "after action" reports so that lessons could be passed on for the future. The same is true for model railroading. As the "de-construction" moves forward (or should I say backward), there are some notable lessons to both be learned and passed along to the next generation. Here are some of my observations:

After several attempts to "reorganize" my thoughts with suggestions from my last posting, I have come to the realization that efficient and innovative layout design is not my true forte. I am looking for someone who can incorporate the two designs I like best into a practical and efficient layout for reasonable compensation. 

Next month the old layout will start to come down and the proposed new, continuous running one will start to take shape. I have attached a diagram (first time working with this program so it is a bit rough) for your comments. The current point-to-point had a number of flaws in its operation and design. So, with the "acquisition" of some new space from my wife, who is being more than gracious since I agreed that a furnace, washer and dryer are essential, I now have a larger area. The new size is 12' x 5' x 30" deep around two support poles.

I am thinking of dismantling my layout and restructuring it. My point-to-point is about 60% finished but there are some considerations: