The main thing I wish I knew more about when I started in the hobby was how real railroads work. I've found that visiting Railcams and chatting with the other viewers has been a big help in understanding railroad operations. Thanks for another great and informative video!
Try "DJ's TRAINS" ... He is an actual engineer on the CSX railroad. As well as a model railroader. He gives some different perspectives from an actual "railroad" view point.
I'm still new to model railroading but here's my 2 cents. Yes the internet is a great pool of information but nothing beats getting your hands "dirty" One thing I learned was to stop thinking about it and go. Great video/content by the way, looking forward to every one that you put out. Tims dark roast 2 milk
We just kind of jumped in and are learning as we go. Definitely a LOT to learn! Channels like yours have worked and visiting train shows. We finally have a track running consistently and look forward to building. We started our channel to document the process.
Materials can be HUGE. One big factor for me is keeping the track fairly quiet. I ran across a video that showed how different ways of laying track can muffle or enhance the noise from your trains. Good information. And above all: ITS YOUR RAILROAD! Don't let some rivet counter steal your joy if something isn't as realistic as they want! :-)
Thanks for all the tips, hints and tricks. I've been out of the hobby for 40 years, just getting back into it now. I feel a bit like Steve Rogers when he wakes up at the end of Captain America! DCC and onboard sound is incredible, all new to me. And the quality of locomotives and rolling stock off the shelf now - good grief!! Unheard of in the 1980s, unless you put in a ton of painstaking work yourself. I 100% agree with all five topics here. I'm going to ease back in with a relatively simple 4X8' layout. But, I'm taking over a 19X8' room in our lower level soon, and I've already got that layout drawn up on SCARM (another great invention...CAD for railroad layouts!) I've still got to build the base and order track, and I'm going to take my time wiring the first layout, with just a handful of turnouts and one inner loop. Thanks again, I did watch your vid on how to wire a layout for DCC, and I look forward to watching more of your stuff!
The hobby has changed so much, I have 3 or 4 HO sets I got as a kid about 50 yrs ago and I have 2 O scale sets from my uncle that are maybe 60 yrs old. I have never had a permanent set up as I get ready to retire looking to do something for grandkids.
Jimmy, I would add one more topic: sensible approaches to building a roster of freight cars, passenger cars, and locomotives. I spent years (and LOTS of money) acquiring rolling stock and locomotives with no regard for era, balance among the various freight car types, ownership, even region. One day I woke up and realized I had over 300 freight cars, passenger cars, maintenance of way cars, and cabooses - WAY more than I needed and even more than I could reasonably assemble and weather in my remaining years. The task of weeding out that collection (I'm now down below 150) forced me to learn a lot about freight car mix, interchange operations, era-specific details (e.g. archbar trucks versus Bettendorf versus roller bearing trucks; K brakes versus AB brakes; wheel diameter; etc.) Knowing all of this in advance would have saved me about $10 - $15 for each of those 150 cars - the difference between retail cost and selling on eBay. I could say the same thing about structures, but in my experience, it's practically impossible to know in advance how a given structure will fit into your layout - that's very much an acquired skill.
I think your point is something many, maybe most model railroaders do. Buy whatever looks cool. Most of us are guilty of that. The way I deal with that is I sell items that are surplus and use the proceeds to buy models with more focus on a theme. I've sold around 4 thousand dollars of models (mostly engines) during the past year or so and still selling. As I get my layout up and running I'm seeing that much of what I have may never get ran so I sell bit by bit.
@@riogrande5761 I reached that same point you describe in early 2021. Since then, I've sold over $8,000 worth of cars, locomotives, and structure kits. Sadly, I probably spent *at* *least* double that amount buying those items (maybe triple). The mental hurdle is realizing that, regardless of how much you spent, that stuff is doing no good sitting on a shelf!
Something I would like to hear your thoughts on would be “how we advance” when going from one layout to the next. It reflects all scales and can apply to anyone. Is it pushing ourselves to do what normally makes us uncomfortable or scares us, or advancing one specific skill to master it.
I wish I had a better understanding on radius both for track and rolling stock. Between functional and realistic look, and how big of a layout and room space needed depending on scale. Also, good on you for the awareness at the end. This community is amazing for supporting each other. Thanks brother.
Happy Thanksgiving Jimmy! The most important thing about PCOS and (your) family is that you are acknowledging it and taking a proactive approach, just being their for the women in your life is a great great step. BIG PROPS TO YOU MAN! As always, great video… I’m home today so I’m drinking Zoe’s Rise and Shine with a shot of espresso… cheers
Just for a shake up, try Lumidose coffee. It's Greek coffee and you need the little cups and a small Turkish style coffee pot. Try it out, the foam is...appealing.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING! My coffee today is BLIND DOG COFFEE, a local small roaster blend. Not my usual Peet's Big Bang or Italian roast. GREAT video! Your "5" is actually differentt from the other fives I have seen so thanks for the video! One of the things I wish I had known was a little more carpentry. Although its not terribly difficult to make basic benchwork, I learned alot from my first one. And of course I am still "learning" lol One mistake I had made recently was the assumption that measuring two walls in my new layout room would give me the area information I would need for planning the new bench style, along the walls layout. Well I dont know who built my home, but the dimensions were not exactly square. which did not create any real problems, but I could not figure out what I did wrong when cutting the boards all to the same lengths based on those measurements. There was a 3 inch difference in width at one end of the room. Like I said, not a real problem as we did not need "perfection", but scratching my head trying to figure out what I did wrong when the bench work didnt fit exactly as planned. The boards fit exactly at one end of the room, but were too long at the other. And of course that made the closet space where I planned my yard diffent as well. I Lined the inner wall with support boards but the table top itself, cut to fit, didnt. And a slight couple inch reduction change in the track plan itself took care of the rest. Although not a real issue, it was a "WTH" moment and very entertaining so to speak. Gives my son and I something to laugh at today :) Now I would measure BOTH ends AND the middle lol
Agree with all the things you mention, knowing how to use materials, and learning all the things that can be used is very key. That's why I'm taking it slow till I build my knowledge and skill. Great information jimmy! Thanks for sharing!
The beauty of this hobby is it can be very simplified to become fairly complicated and you must decide what interests you and have fun...Start easy, keep it simple..buy less but good product and build from there. I particulary just like to run trains and dont have any interest in scenery, tunnels, buildings etc. Love to run the kato shinkansen trains on long super elevated loops and quickly.
I started my first N Scale layout at the beginning of 2021. Almost at 2 years, I'm starting a second one. I didn't finish the first one, really I just needed to finish roads and landscaping, then fill out buildings, but currently I just don't feel fully ready for the little details. As well some of my engines don't run well since I obviously wasn't very good with my track laying (Mostly doing too tight of curves.) Thankfully I was smart in building my layout on a shelf and also making the layout itself on 2 removable "tables." My NCE PowerCab is mounted to the actual shelf and the wiring connects through a terminal block to the layout so I can move the first layout and set down a new one, connect the wires and tracks where needed and I'm good to go. These topics are very important as I'm now really thinking in advance and planning more to make sure I don't build something into my new layout that prevents something else from working in the future. I hope to make something more stable this time, even if still not exactly what I'm looking for.
Great video. While all the points on the list are great, IMHO, wiring & terms and MRR/RR terminology are the two biggest. As a kid, I didn't go past wiring to make trains run; no powered turnouts, no building lights, etc. And, when trying to get help/advice from someone it would behoove you to know what they are talking about. Thanks for the video! BTW, how about a live stream sometime?!? ;) Maxwell House Original Blend, 2 sugars & a little cream
In real life siding normally run parallel to the main track....space is wasted when turn outs ( points ) are placed before corners ie oval. They are better placed after a corner returning to a straight track....this allows more spce for modeling, road & buildings etc
Star Bucks K-Cup Mocha Mint. A friend who does not understand model railroading asked: "Why do you do this to yourself. There is always one more thing to know"? Reply: "I love learning"
About learning electronics, it is certainly daunting when you're first getting into it, but the biggest barrier is getting discouraged when you make a mistake. The difference between failure and success is being ok with failure. I recommend the book Getting Started in Electronics by Forrest Mimms, you can find a free PDF online.
Thank you for bringing PSO out to the public we should not be afraid to talk about it. Can't wait for up coming shows I need to learn more about doing landscaping and wiring stumps me lots of help there. HAPPY THANKSGIVING🦃🦃🦃 GOD BLESS 🚂💖🚂💖🚂💖🚂💖
I agree, my first railroad will not be my last. Question: Are there types of track, electronics, etc that can be used in a new/upgraded setup? Obviously (unless you change scale) the rolling stock and buildings could be re-used; but what about track? What about wiring hardware? Any specific pointers? I'm trying to avoid buying too much twice.
I've built many layouts in my time (I'm 60). I've never finished any of them. Things happen in life and life can get in the way of fun. Once I get things situated in my new digs, I plan on starting a new layout in a spare room. BTW, this is the first time that I've been drinking coffee while watching. Folger's Black Silk with a splash of Italian Sweet Cream.
Early N scale had oversize wheels and the cookie cutter flanges can only run on code 80 rail especially the switches. I know I have hundreds of pieces closer to a couple thousand.
Thank you for another fantastic video. Totally agree with the list. I would also add to the list to remember that model railroading is fun. This has helped me a lot with working on my current train table. If I get discouraged about my progress, I take a step back and do something else hobby related that is fun like research, run trains, fix broken couplers, etc. I love coffee and trains! At relatives home so I am drinking whatever coffee they have. Have a blessed day.
Hi I am 66 just retired after 42 years of being an electrical contractor. I am going nuts. Yes I am a pain in the A*** my wife said and she told me to start any hobby. Well I have always loved trains I had a old friend that past years ago that had a set up in his basement it was like 4 4x8 sheets of plywood that he made a entire town /christmas theme it was amazing also I remember years ago I went to Chicago and in one of the museums there was a trai display that I will never forget thus that will now be my hobby. So I did buy a small HO starter set. A Walthers power-loc track kit and some extra cars you know they just look so cool. Anyway is the Walthers power-loc track good track a good start to invest into because I was told when you start with one track your kind of stuck after that and vested is that true. Then the DCC / DC side what would be the best avenue before I really start putting in $$$ thank you for any advice.
Those are all good things too know but like most of us we all jump in with both feet and don't really think about what we are really trying to do. Playing with trains is great but really getting into model railroading in more about like y io u said the facts if railroads and what we really want to do is the most important part. I tell people getting started is to read, read, read some more. It's important to really understand that you want to do. 😀
I'm weird, I really really can't handle hearing people eat, chew, drink, swallow, slurp, etc. I don't know why, but it just sends tingles down my spine and grosses me out. It is so, so hard to watch this amazing channel hearing that AMSR drink and sip and swallow with the coffee at the beginning, lol. Great channel!
Oh good lord! Due to poor track planning THREE times in a row and finally doing so, I’m 4 attempts on this build and FAR from my last! I’m already looking at expanding and eventually tearing this down in a year and going DCC over DC
Oh man track planning IS a key! One of the things I have in a video for starting out. That and deciding on scale/gauge were two things I wish I researched before starting
This is probably not too popular in the video age but I would encourage a new modeler to subscribe to a publication about the hobby. I have watched a lot of videos and remembered reading an entire article about the same topic. It helps when tackling a project and you have the reference material right there in front of you and you don’t have to hit pause and rewind. I’m not sure if you take product recommendations, but Kalmbach publishing has material on almost all modeling subjects.
Would you buy marklin M track with 100 pieces ho track Or Buy Kato n track starter pack ? My space can fit both size track. The marklin track is a lot I believe it's a great deal I just don't want to buy track thats a older style and may have issues. Im hearing a lot about Kato n track. I can go with Kato ho track also. I'm just looking for your thoughts?
Wow wasnt expecting the poly cycstic ovaries part at the end, i know thise is 2 yrs old now but just wanted to drop in that metformin is really good for it, incase you werent aware, here in the uk they do nothing for those suffering this. They dont even run proper blood tests
Another great one Jimmy, and very meaningful. You mentioned Electrical wiring and terminology. As a mature man I still find these things to be a mystery. I wish someone could explain these things in simple terms without getting too technical. Examples would make such a difference. My DCC system can run trains up to one amp. Does that mean I can run five trains at once or only one and how do I know that? Those are the things that keep me awake at night. Keep up the good work. I rely on you for lots of answers.
Hi. Just looking for a solution to a little issue. I've got lots of HO/OO rolling stock that I've collected over some years; many different makes and fitted with a great variety of couplings. It would be good to be able to have couplings that match so I could hook up any combination of my locos to rolling stock. Is this realistically feasible ? - scratch-built magnetic couplings seem to possibly be the way to go. Has anybody managed to find a way to do this ?
I built an O scale train shelf under the ceiling. I wish I had made a wider radius on the turns or a wider shelf for 2 tracks. I wish I had snaked extra wire inside the wall for expansion. I wish I had made building fronts instead of full 3D buildings that are unusable on the shelf. I'm drinking Kirkland Signature Instant Coffee.
I was watching a show on TV many years ago and for landscape base he was using all kinds of everyday things like wadded up and vano starched newspaper, styrofoam and cardboard inserts from TVs and other electronics and such. Is this something you would do? Why or why not?
It's best to treat model railroading like a work of art and make it according to your imagination and keep it able to be modified readily to keep up with your imagination. PCOS is often a symptom rather than a diagnosis, PCOS often accompanies something more serious (most commonly PCF or cancer although most likely not ovarian, but not impossible) and they might want to get screened for more serious ailments, just a heads up. I wish you and your family well.
I've learned the first 4 "I wish I knew"..however, I'm having a hard time sticking to building a small layout for my first layout. I've bought enough wood to build a room size layout and I don't have a room for it. I keep telling myself just focus on the 2x4 and make it have the potential to become a branch line.
What track size do you recommend for a 53ft well car HO scale because I’m currently on 18in tracks and it’s not working I just ordered 22 in track would that work and would there be less derailments because I need help please
I want to build my own model railroad, but theme it all around the first railroads with steam locomotives and not have to worry about cars and roads and mostly focus on natural scenery
Terminology - just being interested in trains all my life, it came with time starting early. Being a train nut since my preteens, I've been reading up on trains for years so I did learn a lot of terminology that way. Maybe if starting in the hobby as an adult, it can be more of a problem. Layout track plans - I've devoured countless track plans in issues of Model Railroader magazine over the years before trying to build a layout. Materials - learn as I go. I started out with cardboard strips and hot glue and plaster cloth and liked it so never tried foam etc. We find what works for us - and there is variety. I'm probably older than Jimmy and am still learning! I know more than some TH-cam presenters on some things and learn some things from them as well. But since I've moved so much and didn't have a decent hobby space, I'm only on my 3rd RR. I envy those who are living in one place for a long time. Key ingredients to successfully building a sizable layout - stability, a tolerant spouse, money. Since you brought up medical stuff, my wife has Nail Patellae syndrome and she has a lot of health problems too.
To be honest, I find this kinda weird. Doesn't Kalmbach Publishing or anyone else sell 'How to' books anymore? Titles like, 'Scenery for Model Railroaders', 'Wiring for Model Railroaders', 'Track Planning for Realistic Operation'. If print - yes, PRINT - references like these are gone, I feel very sorry for anyone that has questions about Model Railroading.
I wish I knew when I wanted to model a certain era and there was nothing available, eg. why are there so few models for the old West, a setting famous for mass railroad-building? Moccona Classic 5 with a slight touch of milk.
Somebody correct me if I’m wrong, but I believe two reasons why 19th century is not a common subject are difficulty finding prototype information, and difficulty squeezing the electrical/electronic components into HO or smaller scales (things have improved over the years on that end, though).
@@atshinkansen7439 It's actually not that difficult to find prototype information. An 1895 Queensland sugar cane network, perhaps; but there is much information on the London, Brighton and South Coast, Great Western, UPRR, CPRR, D&RGW... And the same technological issues which caused the odd British scale codes did affect the modelling of old Western locos, but were also solved by the same thing: if you've got decent N scale engineering, you should be able to do it in HO. My issue is that someone in fact did, but it was Bachmann, and so not very good; and no-one has followed their lead to improve things.
Imagine walking into a pastry shop , and ordering just one piece of an excellent piece of pie ,while there is at least fifteen pieces that you would love ... Eat it slowly , and enjoy its taste , without looking at some other cakes on the counter ! 1.Less is more ! 2.Don't bite more than you can chew ! Now, waitress will try to sell you something else as well . Don't order coke it will ruin the taste of that pie and you will pay more ! 3.Don't waste money on all the gimmicks that will end up underneath the shelf ! Go home and savour the taste of that cake . Ask around, there is a proverb," A man and a donkey know more than just a man" ! Do not even try to save money on articles that are cheaper , you can do that after five years into the hobby . No one is that rich to buy cheap ! That is my advice , sorry for butting in, but you know us, the old fuddy duddies !
Awesome video.But these kind of " videos" always amazes,or intriques me...whatever subject it might be.And that is." Woud this knowledge you now have... change anything if you knew it before,and change the outcome you see today.?Let me ask again..'"How would you know stuff " before you actually know it" ? :) ...like..isnt the hobby about " getting to know about stuff " also?it is natural to try and fail..and dig into stuff to learn about stuff as you go along...I think if you are interested enough,.you will get to a point where you actually GO FOR IT..and starting to dig in,and develop skills as you go. If you do not have the interest...well...you are going to move on to another " hobby" :) Eitherway...this was just my two cents ;) Thanx for video,and greetings from fellow youtuber(car and Rc cars)(but i am on my way to enter the model railroad hobby aswell :) ) in Norway ,Stefan :)
One other thing that does happen often in Model Railroading that newbies need to understand is that Interests Change. It might be the discovery of a photo that leads to more interesting information that changes one's path in Model Railroading. It could be one's aging eyesight that causes a change in Interest to model a larger scale. It might be going to a train show, visiting a club layout or visiting a home layout that causes a change in Interests in modeling railroading. It could be the release of a particular model of an engine that changes one's interests in model railroading. It could just be a vacation is an area full of railroad history that causes a change in one's interest. Newbies need to understand that as time goes on their Interests will change and evolve. Maybe change several times over their lifetime.
Ellery Parsons In your comment, since you are using double negatives, when you change them to double positives (of which grammatically can do), that would equate to, All layouts are always done. 😃
The main thing I wish I knew more about when I started in the hobby was how real railroads work. I've found that visiting Railcams and chatting with the other viewers has been a big help in understanding railroad operations. Thanks for another great and informative video!
Try "DJ's TRAINS" ... He is an actual engineer on the CSX railroad. As well as a model railroader. He gives some different perspectives from an actual "railroad" view point.
I'll second this! I love DJ's Trains.
@@DIYDigitalRailroad im super interested in starting model railroading So thanks your Videos Help me alot !
My mom passed from Cervical cancer. I think your cause is noteworthy.
Something else a beginner needs to understand is selecting the scale that is right for them. Great video. Folgers, 2 creams.
We are keeping you and your family in our prayers. Family is a big part of the hobby, so definitely good to support the health of all family members!
I'm still new to model railroading but here's my 2 cents.
Yes the internet is a great pool of information but nothing beats getting your hands "dirty" One thing I learned was to stop thinking about it and go.
Great video/content by the way, looking forward to every one that you put out. Tims dark roast 2 milk
We just kind of jumped in and are learning as we go. Definitely a LOT to learn! Channels like yours have worked and visiting train shows. We finally have a track running consistently and look forward to building. We started our channel to document the process.
Materials can be HUGE. One big factor for me is keeping the track fairly quiet. I ran across a video that showed how different ways of laying track can muffle or enhance the noise from your trains. Good information. And above all: ITS YOUR RAILROAD! Don't let some rivet counter steal your joy if something isn't as realistic as they want! :-)
Just tell them that is not the granularity you are modeling. 😎
Thanks for all the tips, hints and tricks. I've been out of the hobby for 40 years, just getting back into it now. I feel a bit like Steve Rogers when he wakes up at the end of Captain America! DCC and onboard sound is incredible, all new to me. And the quality of locomotives and rolling stock off the shelf now - good grief!! Unheard of in the 1980s, unless you put in a ton of painstaking work yourself. I 100% agree with all five topics here. I'm going to ease back in with a relatively simple 4X8' layout. But, I'm taking over a 19X8' room in our lower level soon, and I've already got that layout drawn up on SCARM (another great invention...CAD for railroad layouts!) I've still got to build the base and order track, and I'm going to take my time wiring the first layout, with just a handful of turnouts and one inner loop. Thanks again, I did watch your vid on how to wire a layout for DCC, and I look forward to watching more of your stuff!
The hobby has changed so much, I have 3 or 4 HO sets I got as a kid about 50 yrs ago and I have 2 O scale sets from my uncle that are maybe 60 yrs old. I have never had a permanent set up as I get ready to retire looking to do something for grandkids.
Jimmy, I would add one more topic: sensible approaches to building a roster of freight cars, passenger cars, and locomotives. I spent years (and LOTS of money) acquiring rolling stock and locomotives with no regard for era, balance among the various freight car types, ownership, even region. One day I woke up and realized I had over 300 freight cars, passenger cars, maintenance of way cars, and cabooses - WAY more than I needed and even more than I could reasonably assemble and weather in my remaining years. The task of weeding out that collection (I'm now down below 150) forced me to learn a lot about freight car mix, interchange operations, era-specific details (e.g. archbar trucks versus Bettendorf versus roller bearing trucks; K brakes versus AB brakes; wheel diameter; etc.) Knowing all of this in advance would have saved me about $10 - $15 for each of those 150 cars - the difference between retail cost and selling on eBay.
I could say the same thing about structures, but in my experience, it's practically impossible to know in advance how a given structure will fit into your layout - that's very much an acquired skill.
I think your point is something many, maybe most model railroaders do. Buy whatever looks cool. Most of us are guilty of that. The way I deal with that is I sell items that are surplus and use the proceeds to buy models with more focus on a theme. I've sold around 4 thousand dollars of models (mostly engines) during the past year or so and still selling. As I get my layout up and running I'm seeing that much of what I have may never get ran so I sell bit by bit.
@@riogrande5761 I reached that same point you describe in early 2021. Since then, I've sold over $8,000 worth of cars, locomotives, and structure kits. Sadly, I probably spent *at* *least* double that amount buying those items (maybe triple). The mental hurdle is realizing that, regardless of how much you spent, that stuff is doing no good sitting on a shelf!
@@rwissbaum9849 That is my feeling as well.
Ty for shouting out about PCOS, a few of my friends have it and it's caused them a lot of agony and suffering at times.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING
Hey I’ve been wanting to start doing model railroads. And I just want to thank you for sharing what you know it really helps.
Something I would like to hear your thoughts on would be “how we advance” when going from one layout to the next. It reflects all scales and can apply to anyone. Is it pushing ourselves to do what normally makes us uncomfortable or scares us, or advancing one specific skill to master it.
This is a great topic!
I love all of your videos! I'm drinking Fair Trade Certified Guatemala medium roast from Aldi with 1 teaspoon of Splenda and cream.
God bless you for bringing up and sharing the information on pso.
I wish I had a better understanding on radius both for track and rolling stock. Between functional and realistic look, and how big of a layout and room space needed depending on scale. Also, good on you for the awareness at the end. This community is amazing for supporting each other. Thanks brother.
Happy Thanksgiving Jimmy and everyone else. Todays coffee is widomaker camp roast
Happy Thanksgiving Jimmy! The most important thing about PCOS and (your) family is that you are acknowledging it and taking a proactive approach, just being their for the women in your life is a great great step. BIG PROPS TO YOU MAN! As always, great video… I’m home today so I’m drinking Zoe’s Rise and Shine with a shot of espresso… cheers
Just for a shake up, try Lumidose coffee. It's Greek coffee and you need the little cups and a small Turkish style coffee pot. Try it out, the foam is...appealing.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING! My coffee today is BLIND DOG COFFEE, a local small roaster blend. Not my usual Peet's Big Bang or Italian roast. GREAT video! Your "5" is actually differentt from the other fives I have seen so thanks for the video! One of the things I wish I had known was a little more carpentry. Although its not terribly difficult to make basic benchwork, I learned alot from my first one. And of course I am still "learning" lol One mistake I had made recently was the assumption that measuring two walls in my new layout room would give me the area information I would need for planning the new bench style, along the walls layout. Well I dont know who built my home, but the dimensions were not exactly square. which did not create any real problems, but I could not figure out what I did wrong when cutting the boards all to the same lengths based on those measurements. There was a 3 inch difference in width at one end of the room. Like I said, not a real problem as we did not need "perfection", but scratching my head trying to figure out what I did wrong when the bench work didnt fit exactly as planned. The boards fit exactly at one end of the room, but were too long at the other. And of course that made the closet space where I planned my yard diffent as well. I Lined the inner wall with support boards but the table top itself, cut to fit, didnt. And a slight couple inch reduction change in the track plan itself took care of the rest. Although not a real issue, it was a "WTH" moment and very entertaining so to speak. Gives my son and I something to laugh at today :) Now I would measure BOTH ends AND the middle lol
Agree with all the things you mention, knowing how to use materials, and learning all the things that can be used is very key. That's why I'm taking it slow till I build my knowledge and skill. Great information jimmy! Thanks for sharing!
The beauty of this hobby is it can be very simplified to become fairly complicated and you must decide what interests you and have fun...Start easy, keep it simple..buy less but good product and build from there. I particulary just like to run trains and dont have any interest in scenery, tunnels, buildings etc. Love to run the kato shinkansen trains on long super elevated loops and quickly.
I started my first N Scale layout at the beginning of 2021. Almost at 2 years, I'm starting a second one. I didn't finish the first one, really I just needed to finish roads and landscaping, then fill out buildings, but currently I just don't feel fully ready for the little details. As well some of my engines don't run well since I obviously wasn't very good with my track laying (Mostly doing too tight of curves.) Thankfully I was smart in building my layout on a shelf and also making the layout itself on 2 removable "tables." My NCE PowerCab is mounted to the actual shelf and the wiring connects through a terminal block to the layout so I can move the first layout and set down a new one, connect the wires and tracks where needed and I'm good to go. These topics are very important as I'm now really thinking in advance and planning more to make sure I don't build something into my new layout that prevents something else from working in the future. I hope to make something more stable this time, even if still not exactly what I'm looking for.
Always fun brother and happy Thanksgiving to u and the family.
Great video. While all the points on the list are great, IMHO, wiring & terms and MRR/RR terminology are the two biggest. As a kid, I didn't go past wiring to make trains run; no powered turnouts, no building lights, etc. And, when trying to get help/advice from someone it would behoove you to know what they are talking about. Thanks for the video!
BTW, how about a live stream sometime?!? ;)
Maxwell House Original Blend, 2 sugars & a little cream
Excellent advice, thanks!
In real life siding normally run parallel to the main track....space is wasted when turn outs ( points ) are placed before corners ie oval. They are better placed after a corner returning to a straight track....this allows more spce for modeling, road & buildings etc
Star Bucks K-Cup Mocha Mint.
A friend who does not understand model railroading asked:
"Why do you do this to yourself. There is always one more thing to know"?
Reply:
"I love learning"
About learning electronics, it is certainly daunting when you're first getting into it, but the biggest barrier is getting discouraged when you make a mistake. The difference between failure and success is being ok with failure. I recommend the book Getting Started in Electronics by Forrest Mimms, you can find a free PDF online.
Definitely take your time deciding DC OR DCC. Dc definitely is easier and you can get going a lot cheaper.
Love Watching These kind of Videos. All Videos Are Very Educational.
Great episode, I’m just getting going, and you’re putting my fears into words, but I’m going to try, holding my breath 😵💫
Thank you for bringing PSO out to the public we should not be afraid to talk about it.
Can't wait for up coming shows I need to learn more about doing landscaping and wiring stumps me lots of help there.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING🦃🦃🦃
GOD BLESS 🚂💖🚂💖🚂💖🚂💖
I agree, my first railroad will not be my last.
Question: Are there types of track, electronics, etc that can be used in a new/upgraded setup? Obviously (unless you change scale) the rolling stock and buildings could be re-used; but what about track? What about wiring hardware? Any specific pointers?
I'm trying to avoid buying too much twice.
I've built many layouts in my time (I'm 60). I've never finished any of them. Things happen in life and life can get in the way of fun. Once I get things situated in my new digs, I plan on starting a new layout in a spare room. BTW, this is the first time that I've been drinking coffee while watching. Folger's Black Silk with a splash of Italian Sweet Cream.
Black Silk is a great coffee! Specially when you consider it is one of the "Major" brands and mass produced, and cheaper.
I take my coffee Crisp.
I don't drink coffee, I only eat it.
I do however drink Copious amounts of Tea (1-2 Pots per day) with 1tbsp Honey per pot.
Early N scale had oversize wheels and the cookie cutter flanges can only run on code 80 rail especially the switches. I know I have hundreds of pieces closer to a couple thousand.
Thank you for another fantastic video. Totally agree with the list. I would also add to the list to remember that model railroading is fun. This has helped me a lot with working on my current train table. If I get discouraged about my progress, I take a step back and do something else hobby related that is fun like research, run trains, fix broken couplers, etc. I love coffee and trains! At relatives home so I am drinking whatever coffee they have. Have a blessed day.
Remember black with two sugars. Good video.
Hi I am 66 just retired after 42 years of being an electrical contractor. I am going nuts. Yes I am a pain in the A*** my wife said and she told me to start any hobby. Well I have always loved trains I had a old friend that past years ago that had a set up in his basement it was like 4 4x8 sheets of plywood that he made a entire town /christmas theme it was amazing also I remember years ago I went to Chicago and in one of the museums there was a trai display that I will never forget thus that will now be my hobby. So I did buy a small HO starter set. A Walthers power-loc track kit and some extra cars you know they just look so cool. Anyway is the Walthers power-loc track good track a good start to invest into because I was told when you start with one track your kind of stuck after that and vested is that true. Then the DCC / DC side what would be the best avenue before I really start putting in $$$ thank you for any advice.
Thank You for Your Great Advice ! Drinking Black Diamond Roast 2 Sugar's Black .
Those are all good things too know but like most of us we all jump in with both feet and don't really think about what we are really trying to do. Playing with trains is great but really getting into model railroading in more about like y io u said the facts if railroads and what we really want to do is the most important part. I tell people getting started is to read, read, read some more. It's important to really understand that you want to do. 😀
good vid keep up the good vids on the channel
I'm weird, I really really can't handle hearing people eat, chew, drink, swallow, slurp, etc. I don't know why, but it just sends tingles down my spine and grosses me out. It is so, so hard to watch this amazing channel hearing that AMSR drink and sip and swallow with the coffee at the beginning, lol. Great channel!
Maybe I can cut the audio out!
Oh good lord! Due to poor track planning THREE times in a row and finally doing so, I’m 4 attempts on this build and FAR from my last! I’m already looking at expanding and eventually tearing this down in a year and going DCC over DC
My advice.Hang out at trainshops.Oldtimers are a good source of info&are usually more than happy to help ya. I even had them give me stuff😁🚂🇨🇦🇺🇲
Oh man track planning IS a key! One of the things I have in a video for starting out. That and deciding on scale/gauge were two things I wish I researched before starting
I'm back in this hobby for 12 month now and it's my 3rd layout now haha.
Good pointers for beginners like myself.
Good for you about PCOS I can relate
I found my old HO set. The track is tarnished and no power for starters. Best way to clean track? Soldering track joints a good idea?
This is probably not too popular in the video age but I would encourage a new modeler to subscribe to a publication about the hobby. I have watched a lot of videos and remembered reading an entire article about the same topic. It helps when tackling a project and you have the reference material right there in front of you and you don’t have to hit pause and rewind.
I’m not sure if you take product recommendations, but Kalmbach publishing has material on almost all modeling subjects.
Would you buy marklin M track with 100 pieces ho track
Or
Buy Kato n track starter pack ?
My space can fit both size track.
The marklin track is a lot
I believe it's a great deal
I just don't want to buy track thats a older style and may have issues.
Im hearing a lot about Kato n track.
I can go with Kato ho track also.
I'm just looking for your thoughts?
One topic is what degree works best with N gauge train in order to form an oval track. Thank you for your time.
Wow wasnt expecting the poly cycstic ovaries part at the end, i know thise is 2 yrs old now but just wanted to drop in that metformin is really good for it, incase you werent aware, here in the uk they do nothing for those suffering this. They dont even run proper blood tests
Another great one Jimmy, and very meaningful. You mentioned Electrical wiring and terminology. As a mature man I still find these things to be a mystery. I wish someone could explain these things in simple terms without getting too technical. Examples would make such a difference. My DCC system can run trains up to one amp. Does that mean I can run five trains at once or only one and how do I know that? Those are the things that keep me awake at night. Keep up the good work. I rely on you for lots of answers.
thank you
Hi. Just looking for a solution to a little issue. I've got lots of HO/OO rolling stock that I've collected over some years; many different makes and fitted with a great variety of couplings. It would be good to be able to have couplings that match so I could hook up any combination of my locos to rolling stock. Is this realistically feasible ? - scratch-built magnetic couplings seem to possibly be the way to go. Has anybody managed to find a way to do this ?
I built an O scale train shelf under the ceiling. I wish I had made a wider radius on the turns or a wider shelf for 2 tracks. I wish I had snaked extra wire inside the wall for expansion. I wish I had made building fronts instead of full 3D buildings that are unusable on the shelf. I'm drinking Kirkland Signature Instant Coffee.
Happy thanksgiving to you Jimmy and too all my American friends from Canada! How did you enjoy your Tim Hortons fix? I’m just having tea today!! 👍
I was watching a show on TV many years ago and for landscape base he was using all kinds of everyday things like wadded up and vano starched newspaper, styrofoam and cardboard inserts from TVs and other electronics and such. Is this something you would do? Why or why not?
It's best to treat model railroading like a work of art and make it according to your imagination and keep it able to be modified readily to keep up with your imagination. PCOS is often a symptom rather than a diagnosis, PCOS often accompanies something more serious (most commonly PCF or cancer although most likely not ovarian, but not impossible) and they might want to get screened for more serious ailments, just a heads up. I wish you and your family well.
I've learned the first 4 "I wish I knew"..however, I'm having a hard time sticking to building a small layout for my first layout. I've bought enough wood to build a room size layout and I don't have a room for it. I keep telling myself just focus on the 2x4 and make it have the potential to become a branch line.
TOMA, perhaps?
Gevalia House Blend _with Brandy_ 😊❤
Happy Thanksgiving !!
What track size do you recommend for a 53ft well car HO scale because I’m currently on 18in tracks and it’s not working I just ordered 22 in track would that work and would there be less derailments because I need help please
whats your coffee brew method ?
I want to build my own model railroad, but theme it all around the first railroads with steam locomotives and not have to worry about cars and roads and mostly focus on natural scenery
Does anyone know of some
Good resources to find switching layouts and good design tips for them. I’ve already searched the MR data base
How do you know the difference in ac or dc model engines? Thanks
For someone with more money than time, do you have a suggestion on someone who sells finished models like railway stations?
I wish I *had known* how to use the verb wish properly.
Add knowing difference between coded track
I have a hard time with the electrical understanding of model railroading I have watched a lot of videos on dc block stuff still don’t understand it
Terminology - just being interested in trains all my life, it came with time starting early. Being a train nut since my preteens, I've been reading up on trains for years so I did learn a lot of terminology that way. Maybe if starting in the hobby as an adult, it can be more of a problem. Layout track plans - I've devoured countless track plans in issues of Model Railroader magazine over the years before trying to build a layout. Materials - learn as I go. I started out with cardboard strips and hot glue and plaster cloth and liked it so never tried foam etc. We find what works for us - and there is variety. I'm probably older than Jimmy and am still learning! I know more than some TH-cam presenters on some things and learn some things from them as well. But since I've moved so much and didn't have a decent hobby space, I'm only on my 3rd RR. I envy those who are living in one place for a long time. Key ingredients to successfully building a sizable layout - stability, a tolerant spouse, money. Since you brought up medical stuff, my wife has Nail Patellae syndrome and she has a lot of health problems too.
To be honest, I find this kinda weird. Doesn't Kalmbach Publishing or anyone else sell 'How to' books anymore?
Titles like, 'Scenery for Model Railroaders', 'Wiring for Model Railroaders', 'Track Planning for Realistic Operation'.
If print - yes, PRINT - references like these are gone, I feel very sorry for anyone that has questions about Model Railroading.
Every layout is a build one to throw away.
Great info 🚂❤️👍👍kool
Every modeler should understand Ohm’s Law at a general level.
I wish I knew when I wanted to model a certain era and there was nothing available, eg. why are there so few models for the old West, a setting famous for mass railroad-building?
Moccona Classic 5 with a slight touch of milk.
Somebody correct me if I’m wrong, but I believe two reasons why 19th century is not a common subject are difficulty finding prototype information, and difficulty squeezing the electrical/electronic components into HO or smaller scales (things have improved over the years on that end, though).
@@atshinkansen7439 It's actually not that difficult to find prototype information. An 1895 Queensland sugar cane network, perhaps; but there is much information on the London, Brighton and South Coast, Great Western, UPRR, CPRR, D&RGW...
And the same technological issues which caused the odd British scale codes did affect the modelling of old Western locos, but were also solved by the same thing: if you've got decent N scale engineering, you should be able to do it in HO. My issue is that someone in fact did, but it was Bachmann, and so not very good; and no-one has followed their lead to improve things.
That is not true... my first model railroad came out absolutely phenomenal!
Imagine walking into a pastry shop , and ordering just one piece of an excellent piece of pie ,while there is at least fifteen pieces that you would love ...
Eat it slowly , and enjoy its taste , without looking at some other cakes on the counter !
1.Less is more !
2.Don't bite more than you can chew !
Now, waitress will try to sell you something else as well . Don't order coke it will ruin the taste of that pie and you will pay more !
3.Don't waste money on all the gimmicks that will end up underneath the shelf !
Go home and savour the taste of that cake .
Ask around, there is a proverb," A man and a donkey know more than just a man" !
Do not even try to save money on articles that are cheaper , you can do that after five years into the hobby . No one is that rich to buy cheap !
That is my advice , sorry for butting in, but you know us, the old fuddy duddies !
It's a marathon not a sprint, don't rush or you will end up tearing it up.
People should know to start out small and don't let their eyes overload their skill level , budget, and space....be realistic!
Holy. This seems unattainable for me. Might have to stay with my kids’ Brio’s 😣
Awesome video.But these kind of " videos" always amazes,or intriques me...whatever subject it might be.And that is." Woud this knowledge you now have... change anything if you knew it before,and change the outcome you see today.?Let me ask again..'"How would you know stuff " before you actually know it" ? :) ...like..isnt the hobby about " getting to know about stuff " also?it is natural to try and fail..and dig into stuff to learn about stuff as you go along...I think if you are interested enough,.you will get to a point where you actually GO FOR IT..and starting to dig in,and develop skills as you go. If you do not have the interest...well...you are going to move on to another " hobby" :) Eitherway...this was just my two cents ;) Thanx for video,and greetings from fellow youtuber(car and Rc cars)(but i am on my way to enter the model railroad hobby aswell :) ) in Norway ,Stefan :)
One other thing that does happen often in Model Railroading that newbies need to understand is that Interests Change. It might be the discovery of a photo that leads to more interesting information that changes one's path in Model Railroading. It could be one's aging eyesight that causes a change in Interest to model a larger scale. It might be going to a train show, visiting a club layout or visiting a home layout that causes a change in Interests in modeling railroading. It could be the release of a particular model of an engine that changes one's interests in model railroading. It could just be a vacation is an area full of railroad history that causes a change in one's interest. Newbies need to understand that as time goes on their Interests will change and evolve. Maybe change several times over their lifetime.
Ngl you sound like lightning McQuenn
Cachowww!
Lol! Love your vids!
ALWAYS REMEMBER No LAYOUTS ARE NEVER DONE.
Ellery Parsons
In your comment, since you are using double negatives, when you change them to double positives (of which grammatically can do), that would equate to, All layouts are always done. 😃