The original TOMA?

So, I've installed decoders before... I don't do any hard wiring, just 8 pin plug stuff... so a couple of months ago I bought a decoder for an engine it wouldn't fit... and it's just kinda sat here... so I decided, since I was having issues with another decoder, I would switch it out. Easy peasy... just unplug the old, and plug in the new.

Put it on the tracks, and there was this horrifying screeching noise, and then smoke!

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!!

Track is slowly being added as i'm taking my time to ensure good electrical contact and smooth rails.

So heres the story i found two circuit boards fromacr headlight on the side of the road since they had somenice smleds. fast forward to testing them out today i discover the are red which isnt a huge deal but that is not the werd part. testing them somehow they work with only one lead. they are dim but are still lighting up. could the air be dry enouugh that it takes the current or is some other magic at work here i was under the impression you needed a fullcircuit for it to work.

This is a continuation of the One Town Layout blog. This blog is to share and discuss the merits of building a layout based on building a layout that models one town, or a small section of a larger city. 

Feel free to add and share your comments.

ARCHIVE OF PREVIOUS ONE-TOWN LAYOUTS THREAD (PDF)

This website has video tutorials on weathering 22 different railroad cars by 11 modelers

https://www.midwestmodelrr.com/ddwc/

Maybe a good source of how to on weathering model train cars with video tutorials? What do you think?

This is a first cut at a shelf layout plan for the Bellmead TX area shown in Goggle Maps link in previous post.

I would welcome anyones  comments as to plan pitfalls/advanges/changes/etc.

My bottom line is I am forcing myself to quit doodling plans and get something operating before I reach my expiration date! Now we'll see how the upload goes.

I have been working on the recessed car card boxes for Coatesville.  I want to maximize the aisle space so I recess all the switch controls and car card boxes into the fascia.  I use horizontal pockets, pigeon holes, made from wood, hardboard and lath.