Modeling topic
Interesting Zephyr experience
A friend has a Digitrax Zephyr system. He got three new DCC-ready switch engines (I think SW1500) and one of the guys 'chipped' them for him. The engines had both 8- and 9-pin connecters, the 9-pin having the DC 'blanking plate' (which was a real pain to get out). Once 'chipped', each was tested on the main at address 03 and all worked (minor victory).
new motive power
A recent addition to the motive power fleet in the form of an New England Rail Services GE 70T with MU and drop steps. It is pretty much bang on for several of the HBM&S 70 Tonners used at the smelter. I am planning to model #5 as it was one of the frequent engines I saw around the plant, and the brass version is vastly superior to the Bachmann rendering.
Unknown Decoder Mfg value
Hoping someone can shed some light on a DCC problem I'm having. I have an used engine that I picked up and while it initially ran on a test track before being put away, it now doesn't run and I can't seem to get my NCE system to recognize it. Several times I have gotten as far as it identifying a manufacturer number, but when I look this up in the NMRA table, that value doesn't actually correspond with anything known manufacturer.
Filling diesels with sand
I am designing a small diesel servicing area for my early 1950's layout. I'll have a track for servicing diesels that is long enough to handle an A-B set of F units, for example. From photos, I can see that it was not unusual to have two fuel stands spaced so that the A and B unit could be fueled at the same time. I think maybe the same holds true for water columns to top off locomotive engine cooling water.
Hex frog juicer numbers
Is there a limit to the number of hex frog juicers that can be used with the NCE Power Cab ? Thanks Zeke
Bend Oregon Switching Layout SP&S
I have had a little "layout kaboom" with my Madras switching layout, here is what is going on...
Awhile ago I decided to replace the switches on my Madras switching layout and got as far as cutting out the old switches and purchasing new ones. Also at this time my need to have a switching layout for work was no longer needed. I started really examining what I had started and I found that it was missing a few elements that I wanted to model so I decided to do a little remodeling.
Looking for Digitrax sound files
Okay, so, I'm new to Digitrax... I just took the plunge, and bought two SDXH166D Sound Decoders, and a PR3XTRA, and have been having a BLAST! After accidentally wiping one of my decoders, I had to learn how to replace the factory sounds rather quick like... I installed them, and LOVE them! (the motor part works a hell of a lot better than what I had before!)
Problem assembling a resin kit
A friend has asked me to build a couple of Westerfield covered hoppers for him. I am trying to use CA as the instructions recommend but the glue is not holding the parts together. I thought there may be some mold release on the parts and they need to be cleaned. However, some of the parts are very small and I am afraid of breaking them or loosing them if I try to wash them.
Any words of wisdom on gluing the kits or washing them would be appreciated.
How do you make your washes ?
I am doing some loco and car weathering, using Pan Pastels and oil paint. I am having trouble with mixture on oil and acrylic washes. Looking for mixtures and ratio's.
Thanks in advance
Joe
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