Thanks - looked through the docs - but was hoping it might be an undocumented "feature" 

Have a Sound Value HO Scale S4 and was wondering if there is a CV value that allows the unit to power on with the sound off?

This might help

http://www.railroad-line.com/forum/topic.asp?ARCHIVE=true&TOPIC_ID=9959&#107737

Put a 1k resistor across the programming track.  That should allow you to program the decoder and set the address.

This is a common problem with Zephyrs and several manufacturers decoders.

I am considering purchasing a Light Mountain in Union Pacific livery. 

I have been researching on the internet and notice that all of the pictures I can find show the engine with a short Vanderbilt Tender.

So, my question is:  Is the coal tender that Bachmann ships on this model, the correct one when the LM was initally sold to UP?

Thanks

Basically not much has changed in getting started.  What has changed is the quality and variety of engines, rolling stock, etc.

Bachmann and Atlas both make train sets that can get you started - and both are expandable.

I would consider roadbed a necessity for your mainlines.  Any yards you could transition to no roadbed.

The main benefit other than looks, is the fact that it deadens noise when the train is running.

Hope this helps some.

Here's a great place for N scale layouts.

http://www.cke1st.com/m_train2.htm

I have built a 2 x 4 foot layout in N scale with elevations. 

An ideal grade is 2 degrees, but that takes approximately 8 feet to get from 0 to 2".  Depending on the engines and number of cars, a 4% grade would be tolerable - but not advisable.

Here is a link for Mikes track plans.  Lots of good ideas.

http://www.cke1st.com/m_train2.htm

You need the latest version of Atlas Track planning software (free at Atlasrr.com) to view and edit the layouts.

Hope this helps

Jim

What DCC system are you using? 

If it was only one engine of the three that caused the problem - it would be the engine.

But because it is any one of the three it sounds like either a power problem of some sort - whether it be pushing the limits of your DCC system, or something as simple as dirty track.

I use an NCE system. but have found that when my engines start to act up - particularly in a consist - 9 out of 10 times the problem is dirty track.

One final thought - is this ABA speed matched?  If not, the 3 engines could be "fighting" each other to maintain a constant speed.

Hope this helps

I used .020 styrene for mine.

What I did was get my wifes lipstick and apply it to the top of the rails where the crossing was. 

I then placed the sheet on the rails and pressed.  This left two lines to cut.

I cut to the inside of the lines, and with a little trimming dropped it in.

I made sure there was plenty of clearance, then painted the styrene cement color and attached with glue.

I had to do this on the layout because I used flex track and it was an odd curve.  If you were doing this on sectional track, use a spare piece of track.

Hope this helps.

Jim

Here is a link to mad Mikes layouts.... should give you lots of ideas.

Jim


http://www.naisp.net/mfischer/m_train2.htm

It is hard to guess as there are no specifications on the length of the engine.  My guess would be no on an Atlas - maybe on the Walthers.

Jim

Atlas is the easiest to install ---

Simply place it, connect your track, and screw it down....

I have the motor option - it works but it is LOUD!!!! - Evern so, get it as you will get carple tunnel from turnung the knob

Walthers is larger, and requires you cut out the benchwork to drop it in.

For ease - Atlas -- If you have longer engines, you may have to deal with the Walthers.

From other train boards, I have heard that the Atlas is much more reliable, and if you go to DCC, you do not have to mess with wiring or anything else.

Jim

Simon,

Here is a link to mad mikes layouts - Towards the bottom you will find layout plans for building on a standard door.  There are a couple of plans that should fit your needs.

They are done with Atlas track, but can be downloaded and used with RTS7.

http://www.naisp.net/mfischer/m_train2.htm

If you are using Xtrakcad - then these trackplans should give you go great ideas and a good starting point.

Hope this helps

Jim