I have these mid 1980's locomotive that run great. I would like to add DCC control and sound to them. One of them is a dummy unit. I am looking to you all to give me advice as to what decoders will work best for me. Sound is very important for me.

I set up a test track for my new NCE Power Pro R running a new Bowser V1000. I am blown away at how wonderful DCC has changed this hobby. The NCE unit was so easy to set up. I have never touched a DCC system and the hardest part of getting this system running was the time it took to set up the test track. The Bowser V1000, which was recommended by members here, runs fantastic. This whole sound and movement of DCC is amazing to me. For anyone on the fence about getting into DCC just do it!!

I just purchased a NCE 5240002 PH-Pro-R (Power Pro-R) Wireless DCC Starter System. I am most excited. I want to buy an Alco RS3 with DCC control and sound. What manufacture and supplier would you recommend.

Thanks so much for your help...

I am starting my new TOMA style layout and need your help. I want this layout to be very operational. I know nothing about operational needs! I have never seen an operating session on another's layout. The first modual is 30" X 84". #6 turnouts will be used along with code 83 track. 

I have been watching TrainMasters, searching this forum and reading back issues of MRH. However, I still feel like I really do not know what I am doing as far as track planning. 

Please be very critical as to the plan's ability to be operational.

I am finally back to model railroading and excited. I sold my video editing company and am left with a wonderful 14' X 30' room to start a new layout. I am most excited to be using the TOMA concept. I feel like a real newbe getting back into this great hobby. I do not know anything about DCC or some of the newer building techniques, so I will be needing some help from you all!

I did sign up for TrainMasters-TV and have to say it is fantastic! I have been watching all of the episodes about TOMA and have already learned a bunch. 

Just got home from the Western Pacific Railroad Museum and a wonderful hour of running a F7A locomotive. After a quick discussion of the controls in the cockpit, when and how to use the bell and whistle, I was released to take the locomotive out on the rails. I was rather surprised by how well the brakes worked and how smooth was the process of stopping. One question I forgot to ask was why the controls were on the right side of the locomotive. Perhaps someone here will have an answer for me.

Here are a couple of pictures for you to see.

Inspired by the GLW Freight House, I spent some fun hours building Rena's Tavern and Art. The structure started as a Woodland Scenes kit. Years ago, when I still had hair, I built a similar kit on my first layout. Building this one brought back fond memories. Hope you enjoy...

I like the idea Bill Michaels has come up with to set some goals for building on our model railroads over the summer. Sharing our ideas, progress and hopefully final creations should be not only great fun but also very motivating for all of us.

Here is my project and what I want to do with it. Please if you have any ideas, let me know! 

I have been studying many examples of heavily weathered prototype box cars. Also, I have been reading some great "how to's" found on the website called THE WEATHERING SHOP. Jeremy St. Peter does fantastic weathering and he shares how he does each car. 

So here is my latest weathering job. 

Many of you have come to realize my uncle is a very eccentric. He has more money than he knows what to do with it yet he ends up buying junk for his railroad and then expects me to make it run perfect. Oh, and of course don't spend much money doing so! There are broken hinges, missing steps and screeching noises when any part is moved. Better get to work...

Gary