It's time to bring out the M-1 gas-electric. It's usually run once a year on Fall Spectacular weekend.

The M-1 pulls up to Orbisonia Depot.

We're heading out past some hoppers.

Well i have been reading this forum nad topic for a couple of days now. As I am starting a new layout, and the first one tht will be a perminent layout., I have read so many opinions on this subject I have become confused on what to do?

1) Is spline the best? Is this something a first timer should do? Will this cut down on noise? Or should I combine it with cork road bed or vinyl road bed? Yes I have seen the videos by Mr. Fugate, but lets face it the is not a "newbie."

I have a set of the Athearn Genesis lehigh valley f units which are painted a beautifull cornell red with black stripes. I am interested in painting a B unit, and this red looks lighter than some i've seen. Can anyone help me with which brand of cornell red most closely matches these or would you suggest a mixing formula. Thanks for the help.  Mark

I'm getting ready to do some expansion and have abandoned using 3/4" plywood for the sub-roadbed because of the difficulity of cutting and waste in favor of spline construction.  I know many use hardboard, and some use wood, but has anybody used the PVC or vinyl strips that are used for molding?  They are available at the home supply stores in ready to use (no ripping required) sizes that can be glued together.  I know they are more expensive, but won't require painting, don't swell / shrink like hardboard can when wet, and are ready to use.

Thanks,