Indoor G 50ft. set up

[D.Tasy]

Hi, I'm new to all this.  We set up a large Christmas display at work every year (we are a non-profit that helps kids and adults with disabilities) and this year we want to add a train. Just bought the "Night Before Chrilstmas" set but we want to run it around the top of the lobby...it's about 50 feet around.  Not sure what track to buy...does it matter the longer distance?...brass....steel...? It will always be inside and we'll store it in an airconditioned storage unit thru the summer, so hopefully it wont rust.  Also, help with power...do we need a larger transformer than what comes with the train set? What about using 2 engines??? will that help with the longer distance...?  Thank you for any and all help you can give.  Merry Christmas!

[JerryB]

Just some first thoughts:

Your proposed 50 foot length is not all that large, so the track that came with the set should be fine. Lots of folks successfully use the Bachmann set track for indoor railroads such as you are proposing. Make certain the track is well assembled on a solid, level base. Purchasing more of the same track to make the longer distance is probably the best and most economical solution for your temporary display railroad. Storing the track in a dry, UV protected environment will certainly extend its life. One advantage is that if some of the curves wear from the continuous running, they are inexpensive to replace.

As to power, you definitely should get a more robust power supply to meet the demands of continuous running. The set power supply will not be up to that. I'm certain someone who runs track power will provide some suggestions for a better supply. Keep it simple: Just a straight forward power supply / controller with output somewhere in the 5+ amp range should work fine.

As to two engines: I assume you are asking about running the two engines coupled together?? I wouldn't recommend that, but you might consider having second engine (another 4-6-0, essentially matching the one that came in the set) as a standby. Swapping between two engines on a regular basis would cut the running time on each one in half, and would ensure that if any problems occur with one engine, you would be able to substitute the second engine to keep the display running.

Be certain to test all components prior to actual public operation. Nothing is more frustrating than finding that something doesn't work on the eve of the first operation!

Good luck with your effort.

Happy RRing,

Jerry

[Chuck N]

Follow Jerry's advice.  Also get a new power supply. It should be able to supply at least 5 amps and a maximum of 20 to 22 volts DC.  Make sure it has DC output.  Lionel power supplies (Transformers) put out AC and the engine will not run on AC.

Chuck

[D.Tasy]

Thanks Guys. Really appreciate your help!