I have a small area (about 10 inches deep by 36 inches long) where I would like to model a quarry. I'm relatively new to these forums and don't see where I can "search" the forums, so I apologize if this subject request has already been asked......Grampy 

I need to know what the general opinion is on painting the helix. I don't recall seeing one painted but some of the guys in the club think we should. What do you think or recommend? Thanks

Here are a few photos of my midwest, contemporary, short line railroad. It runs from a wye connection with CP, past a transload center and terminates in a balloon track which was originally part of a crossing between two defunct lines and which serves a half dozen industries. This layout dosen't compare to those of a Tom Johnson or a James McNab and it it's a work in process but it does serve the purpose of being a fun little road to build and a bit of operation for a few friends or the family.

Thanks, for looking.

Barry

Something had been bugging me lately as I operated my layout and that is the rather short length of my lead track.  I use this lead to move cars from the mainline to the yard, as well as to and from the cement factory. This track was only long enough to accommodate approximately 4 cars plus a locomotive which meant that a lot of running back and forth was needed to complete even the simplest maneuvers. (see track plan for clarification) All of this back and forth artificially lengthened the operating sessions but not in a good way.