A very insightful look at this throttle and how it's used, you guys did a great job running the show well done. I really love your layout also, very realistic and big attention to detail makes for a beautiful setup. Many thanks. tones1957 (New Zealand)
Hi Tony, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job on the video and demonstrating the ProtoThrottle. Be sure to check out Tim Garland's new layout on his TH-cam channel Seaboard Central.-Tom
This has to be the most realistic operating session i've ever seen! Both guys did a fantastic job! The throttle is very prototypical, this will revolutionize model railroading.
Hi Mike, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job on the video. I got to use the ProtoThrottle after we filmed the video and it really made me feel like I was in the cab of the locomotive. You are right, I think this throttle will be a huge step forward in revolutionizing how model railroaders operate their locomotives.-Tom
I loved watching this! Hearing how actual engineers and conductors communicate and the procedures is very insightful and sure does add geratly to the realism of operations.
Hi, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did a great job or replicating the communication and procedures they use everyday at work on the NS. It really adds another level of realism to an ops session.- Tom
Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did a great job replicating the work they do everyday on the NS. I added the captions to help explain the procedures used for those that are not familiar with the language and operations practices. Once you hold an ops session you'll see how much fun they can be and it will get you hooked on operations.-Tom
Hi Alex, Yes the ProtoThrottle would be a perfect addition to your layout. Tim and Nathan did a great job demonstrating how the professionals work everyday with the communication and procedures. When you get a ProtoThrottle let me know and I'll be glad to help you set it up and configure your locomotives.-Tom
MAN!!!! This is the most realistic video of true operations on an HO layout I have ever seen! Especially beens the operators are you a Real NS engineer and your buddy being a real NS conductor! WOW, you guys must really love your jobs and trains to work this way. Dang man, this is so enjoyable and AWESOME too watch!!! Thanks, you must make more like this!!!
Hi Gary, Thanks for your comments, I'll pass them on to Tim and Nathan. They both did an excellent job of communicating how they do on the prototype during the ops session. Be sure to check out the video of Tim operating with me on my layout on my TH-cam channel. th-cam.com/video/qGBBFLXseoA/w-d-xo.html Also check out my website at www.thomasklimoski.com to see more about my GNRR layout and subscribe to my blog.-Tom
Hi Rob, Thanks for your comments I'll pass them along to Tim and Nathan. It was nice to see two professionals operating a model railroad just like they do everyday on the prototype.-Tom
Thank You Tim, Nathan and Thomas for the Demo of the Throttle! It looks like a cool item to add to the mix and it brings the layout to the realism that we can use.
Hi Kevin, Thank you for your comments. The ProtoThrottle is a great addition to any layout that adds a prototypical realism to operating your model locomotive.-Tom
These guys have the best of both worlds, play at home and at work!! I know it's the same as my nuclear security and safety first, but it makes a world of difference when you can love your job. My live steam railroad in the yard will be the closest I will come to the real thing. Loved the video, thanks for sharing
Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job of replicating what they do on a daily basis for the ops session on Tim's layout. By following the prototype procedures you can time and interest to an ops session without adding any track or making the layout larger.-Tom
Hi, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan, both professional railroaders, did a great job on the video following prototype procedures. I filmed a video with Tim Garland operating on my Georgia Northeastern layout. Here is a link to the video; th-cam.com/video/qGBBFLXseoA/w-d-xo.html You can also check out my website at www.thomasklimoski.com to see more about my layout, links to operations videos, and subscribe to my blog. -Tom
The throttle adds a bunch.. True two man crews. Hearing the car counts brings back memories of my time on CNW at proviso...yup CNW..not UP. We used call "Makin' weenies" to the hogger to let when him/her know we were between cars. Great job guys!! A good crew is a safe crew. Thanks. Greg
Hi Greg, Thanks for your comments. Operating with a two person crew is how I prefer to operate. It adds so much to the ops session and I enjoy the interaction between the crew. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job demonstrating how professional railroaders operate today. The ProtoThrottle adds that extra dimension of realism to an ops session with the prototypical controls. It really makes you feel like you are in the cab of the locomotive.-Tom
Hi David, Thanks for your comments. We wanted to produce a video that demonstrates following some of the prototype procedures add a lot of fun to an ops session.-Tom
This video was awesome! It was very enlightening to see actual RR personnel doing step by step procedures. You've definitely influenced me to make my layout more prototypical. This will definitely make running trains more fun and interesting in the future. Thanks again for sharing a small part of what you guys do on a daily basis.
Hi David, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job demonstrating the procedures and language used by them on a daily basis. The more you get into prototypical operations you'll find that it makes your layout operate like a much larger one. The ProtoThrottle is a great innovation and makes you really feel like you are operating a prototype locomotive and it helps you to slow down and plan your moves, just like the pros.-Tom
Hi Mr. Blue, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job of operating the model railroad following their NS procedures. Having a two person crew helps each person concentrate on their specific job.-Tom
Guys, what a great how too, tutorial. Very impressive. I'm from Australia and model USA prototype so watching how you go about switching and listening to the chatter will add value to my ops sessions. Great work. Oh and the throttle is very interesting. Thanks heaps.
Hi Duncan, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job of replicating what they do on a daily basis. Working with a two person crew for local switching adds that extra level of realism with the communication between them. It also helps to slow the ops session down which is great for those modelers with small layouts.-Tom
Hi Joe, Thanks for your comments. I hope you were able to reserve your ProtoThrottle on the website. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job demonstrating the prototype procedures. We'll try to do more ops sessions, we enjoyed filming it as much as you did watching.-Tom
Man, I wish I could find more like this on TH-cam. You guys were great. The controller is interesting and something for me to watch as my needs change.
Hi Bruce, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did a great job of replicating how they switch on the NS. Following the prototype practices adds time (and more fun) to an ops session. The benefit with operating with a two person crew is that it allows each person to concentrate on performing their job and also enjoy the communication and interaction as they operate. The ProtoThrottle is awesome innovation that places you in the cab of the locomotive as you operate.-Tom
A really informative video! Helping out at the local railway museum I learned that the driver/engineer can see very little of what's going on compared to a modeller towering over his train. Our model club has a loco fitted with a miniature wifi camera (source unknown); looking at the screen gives a real driver's eye view. Combined with the procedures used in the video you could really get the feeling of being real train crew!
Hi Roy, Thanks for your comments. Until you work on a railroad you don't understand how dependent the engineer is on the conductor for controlling the movements. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job of demonstrating how they communicate on the prototype. Using a two person crew for switch jobs on our model railroads allows us to follow the prototype procedures and I think adds a lot of fun to an ops session. Be sure to check out my website at www.ThomasKlimoski.com for more videos and to see my GNRR layout.- Tom
Just subbed. This ops session was awesome. It makes the session seem more like the real thing with 2 real-life railroaders performing in their natural habitat. They must feel at home doing their normal duties for NS. That throttle system looks amazing. If my layout wasn’t so small I’d really look into getting this system when it releases. Love how the modern conductor figure moved around the layout. Thanks for sharing. Cheers from the Meridian & Southern RR 🚂
Hi, Thanks for your comments and subscribing. Tim and Nathan did a great job with the ops session. As they mentioned in the video, they work together almost everyday and make a great team. Modeling the small details like derails and following the prototype procedures makes a small layout operate like a much larger one by extending an ops session. The ProtoThrottle is perfect for a small layout where you have the time to operate more slowly and it really makes you feel like you are in the cab.-Tom
Hi, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did a great job of explaining and demonstrating how they operate Tim's layout just like they do everyday on the prototype. Be sure to subscribe to Tim's TH-cam channel, Seaboard Central, to see more about his layout and ops sessions.-Tom
Hi, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan, both professional railroaders, really show how the prototype crews communicate and I think it adds realism to an ops session.-Tom
Wow, what an awesome video! Great work. Very interesting to hear the different terminology used by crews in the USA compared to here in New Zealand. That throttle looks like it will be a very popular product. Will be adding to my shopping list.
Hi Craig, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did a great job on the ops session. We wanted everyone to hear how a prototype crew communicates during switching operations, that is not something easily heard unless you have a scanner. I enjoy the interaction between the crew and that's why I prefer two person crews to operate on my layout. The ProtoThrottle is great fun to operate and perfect for a small switching layout.-Tom
Hi Brad, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job of replicating how they operate and communicate everyday on the NS. It helps you appreciate and understand the communications that take place during switching operations. The ProtoThrottle adds that extra bit of realism and makes you feel like you are operating a prototype locomotive. -Tom
Hi Randy, Thanks for your comments. You are right, the ProtoThrottle has a high cool factor. I got to operate with it after we filmed the ops session and it was a blast to operate. I really felt like I was in the cab of the locomotive. One benefit is that you really have to slow down and plan your moves just like the prototype, which makes an ops session on a small layout last longer.-Tom
Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did a great job demonstrating and explaining how they operate the model railroad following procedures they do everyday on the prototype. You can also go over to my website at www.ThomasKlimoski.com to see similar switch lists and how I operate on my layout along with links to my operations videos. Tim also host a ops session on my layout. -Tom
Thanks for your comments. Operating with a two person crew is how I prefer to operate. It adds so much to the ops session and I enjoy the interaction between the crew. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job demonstrating how professional railroaders operate today. The ProtoThrottle adds that extra dimension of realism to an ops session with the prototypical controls. It really makes you feel like you are in the cab of the locomotive.-Tom
ThomasKlimoski Check out my channel when you have time. I don't know if you ever have? Just type my name in the search bar and my channel comes up tape in ericehlers. I'm a big modeler of Mopac. IC. And GM&O keep the videos coming they're awesome it's really helped me out to do a little weathering myself.
I know the three step is: First you zero out the throttle Second you apply the brakes Third you neutralize the direction switch (or center it out as some say)
Hi Robert, On NS the "Three Step" indicates the reverser is centered, the brakes are applied, and the field generator swtich is Off. On the ProtoThrottle there is not a field generator switch so the engineer just has to center the reverser and apply the brakes. You can't move the reverser unless the throttle is at idle or you will get a error message on the ProtoThrottle, which is the same on the prototype. Thanks for your comments and watching the video.-Tom
Hi Robert, I certainly am not an expert when it comes to locomotive and railroad operations, but fortunately I have a few friends that are professional railroaders who have taught me a lot of prototype operations and procedures. On the Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad where I was a part time trainman we used the phrase "Red Zone" instead of Three Step. It means the same thing, but the engineer would answer "Centered and Set" to indicate it was safe to enter a fouling position. Following a few of the prototype rules and procedures helps slow down an ops session and make a small layout operate like a much larger one. -Tom
This has been a great video to watch and learn from, both the operation side and the side using the Proto Throttle.. Watched the first video and I want one, Now I've watched and still want one!! LOL Thanks for shooting this video and sharing with everyone. D. Muse WTCMRR
Hi David, Glad you enjoyed the video. Operating with a ProtoThrottle adds a whole new dimension to model railroading. I got to use the ProtoThrottle after we filmed the video and it really made me feel like I was in the cab of the locomotive. I think once you try one you'll never go back to a standard throttle.-Tom
I sure enjoyed watching this and learned a lot. I’ve tried the throttle and that made me want to more about the sequence or operating steps when moving the engine or at stop; things like what the reverser’s position when we’re stopped and such.
Hi Chris, Thanks for your comments and I'll pass them on to Tim. The ProtoThrottle actually makes you follow the proper steps as the throttle will not let you change directions without the throttle lever being in idle or you get an error (the prototype also does not allow direction changes without being in idle). Any time the conductor is in a dangerous fouling position (red zone or three step) in between or on the equipment, the reverser must be in idle and the brake applied (in addition on the prototype the field generator switch off). -Tom
Tom what an inspirational video. This type of operation is what has inspired me to try to build a ProtoTrottle Steam version over here in Australia. If I can work out all the issues I look forward to doing switching just like you guys have done here. One problem, 1925 doesn’t have radios to talk between driver and conductor.
Hi Mark, Thanks for your comments. I really enjoy operating like Tim and Nathan demonstrated in the video. Recently I operated on another layout set in the 1940's so radio communication was not realistic. We used hand signals to communicate between the crew members, which was really fun and much more realistic for the time period. Good luck on your steam version of the ProtoThrottle. Once you have it working you should post a video, I know that many others would like to see it.-Tom
Hi Doug, Thanks for the comments on Tim's layout and operating session. Tim has had some custom sound files loaded into his decoders by Bradley DCC. You can see more about Tim's layout on his Seaboard Central TH-cam channel. -Tom
I never really understood why the conductor said three step and why the engineer repeated with double check when I listened on my scanner. but now ik thank you guys. great video
Hi Jason, Thanks for your comments. Tim informed me that NS has that (double check) as a standard procedure to make sure the switch is properly lined and the derail removed, one more safety procedure that could prevent an accident. Not all railroads use the term "three step" for the conductor to enter the danger area, several railroads use the term "red zone", and the Engineer would answer back "centered and set, OK to step in ", different terms but the same meaning. It all has to do with safety and following procedures set up by the railroads to make sure everyone goes home at the end of the day.-Tom
Yes, "red zone" seems to be more prevalent on western railroads while most eastern roads tend to use "three step" protection. Both terms mean exactly the same thing. The red zone is anything inside the plane of the outside edge of the cars and loco. When a crew member enters the red zone he must have "three step protection" to prevent movement of the train. So saying "red zone" means "entering the red zone" and effectively tells the engineer he must provide three step protection which is centering the reverser, setting the brakes sufficiently to prevent movement and turning the generator field switch to the off position.
Hi Keith, Thanks for your comments. The ProtoThrottle certainly makes operating a model locomotive more prototypical as you have to slow down and plan your moves.-Tom
This is not a model railroad; this is a traing video! ... lol! This is THE best compliment I can think of. Has that crew considered submitting this to NS so they can decide if they should make some of these layouts for training. Computer simulators have the advantage being able to reprogram multiple times to simulate real railroads, but hands on DOES have some advantages...
Hi Seth, Thanks for the compliments. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job of demonstrating the procedures they follow everyday on the NS. I know some railroads have started using model railroads to teach newcomers how to operate and switch. I'll mention it to Tim to see if he wants to forward it to the training guys at NS. Using the ProtoThrottle just adds that little extra dose of realism to the ops session. Be sure to check out my website at www.ThomasKlimoski.com to see more videos and check out my GNRR layout. Tim hosted an ops session on my layout and it was a real learning experience. -Tom
VERY interested in this new product. Bit pricey on the Iowa site. Also have to buy a special receiver to connect with an exsisting system. Still....I am watching this closely. Thanks for the great video and demo you guys!
Hi TMandN, Thanks for your comments. The ProtoThrottle is about the cost of two DCC locomotives and I feel well worth the cost. The ProtoThrottle is exceptionally well built (in the USA) and the controls operate smoothly. The real fun comes when you operate with it. I got to use the ProtoThrottle after I filmed the ops session and I really felt like I was in the cab of the locomotive. I think if you purchase one you won't be disappointed.-Tom
At first I thought it was too expensive but as pointed out it's about the price of two locomotives and the enhanced realism should be well worth the cost. As I understand there currently is not a way to use with Digitrax. I certainly hope that's not the case or if it is the case it is corrected quickly.
Hi Ryan, The developers will have the ProtoThrottle working with Digitrax by the summer. The throttle will communicate with a receiver which will then connect via WiFi to a Digitrax LNWI or computer running JMRI connected to your Digitrax Loconet system. It is a little more complicated than connecting it directly to a NCE system but they had to do it that way as Digitrax would not allow them to connect directly to their Loconet system. I will be one of the Bata testers for the ProtoThrottle using the Digitrax system so I'll let you know how it works out. It really is an awesome throttle.-Tom
would you ever consider doing a more detailed toutorial on prototype operating, including the language that you are using, how to use those switch list (detailing more how to setup, read, and fill out while operating)?
Hi Crownironman, Be sure to check out Tim's Seaboard Central TH-cam channel. I have a website where I have my prototypical based switch lists and information on how I designed and use them for my layout. The forms are based on the ones used by the GNRR while Tim's are based on the forms he uses on the NS. I plan on doing more prototypical operations videos. Here is the link to my website; www.thomasklimoski.com. Thanks for your comments.-Tom
Hi Warren, Be sure to subscribe to Tim Garland's Seaboard Central TH-cam channel if you have not already. Tim is doing more videos on operations. The ProtoThrottle is the most realistic way to control your model diesel locomotives and is a game changer when it comes to model railroad operations. Thanks for your comments.-Tom
Hi, Tim makes his Work Orders (switch lists) on an Excel spread sheet based on the prototype NS forms he uses everyday. Tim's Work Orders are not auto generated, he manually inputs the car information to control car counts and industries switched.-Tom
@@ThomasKlimoski OK, thanks. It just looked like something that ProTrak, a very sophisticated model railroad operating software, would generate automatically for an ops session.
Awesome! Thanks so much. My questions would be, what do you use to produce the "industry work order" and the "track inventory"? I'm part of a modular club and think this might be the easiest method for me to implement for operating sessions. Thanks in advance!
Hi Scott, Thanks for your comments. Tim Garland has a blog on MRH where he discusses switch lists vs car cards. Here is a link to the blog; model-railroad-hobbyist.com/node/27553 Tim types up his work orders and track inventory using his computer and manually enters the information needed for his ops sessions. In addition, I have a website where I have copies of my switch lists that can be downloaded and modified to fit your railroad. My switch lists are based on the prototype switch lists used by the Georgia Northeastern. Here is a link to my website; www.thomasklimoski.com Good luck on your switch list project.-Tom
Thanks for keeping the speeds prototypical! Excellent looking throttle...on the buy list. On another note, Any particular program for track inventory and switch lists?
Hi, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did a great job demonstrating the prototype communication and procedures. The ProtoThrottle is a great new innovation and is really fun to operate.-Tom
Hey man, I really dig your videos but I have a question regarding the throttle. Can this be used on a digitrax railroad and if so does it have to be used in tandem with a digitrax throttle? Also where can I find these?
Hi Nathan, Yes the ProtoThrottle can be used on a layout that operates with a Digitrax system. You need to have a Digitrax LNWI receiver to connect the Digitrax system to the ProtoThrottle receiver. It sounds complicated but it really is not. I have a video showing how the ProtoThrottle is connected to my Digitrax system and a little more information on the ProtoThrottle. Here is a link to the video; th-cam.com/video/ApOdbVu_F9M/w-d-xo.html You can see more about the ProtoThrottle and order directly from ISE on their website at; www.iascaled.com/store/ProtoThrottle Any questions let me know. You can contact me through my website at www.thomasklimoski.com
Hi, I'll have to ask Tim about the ditch lights, but I know that he had the locomotives upgraded by Bradley DCC and he installed a ESU Loksound decoder in the locomotive. I added ditch lights to my Georgia Northeastern locomotives with Warm White SMD 0402 LEDs and ditch light castings from Details West. The LED lights were pre-wired and purchased on E-Bay. You can see the ditch lights on the locomotive at the beginning of my latest TH-cam video; th-cam.com/video/K9gCtkRZnu0/w-d-xo.html Thanks for your comments. -Tom
Hi Thomas, Thanks for your comments. Yes you can purchase the ProtoThrottle directly from Iowa Scaled Engineering. Here is a link to their website; www.iascaled.com/store/MRBW-CST Remember you also need to order a receiver depending on what DCC system you are using.-Tom
Watching this in the UK and loved seeing the guys doing their jobs - some real food for thought about how to make my own sessions more realistic and enjoyable. I see the ProtoThrottle is not available for the UK market at this moment in time. Are you guys planning to offer it to the British market at some point?
Hi Ian, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did a great job of replicating what they do everyday for a living. Unfortunately, at this time the guys at ISE are not planning to get the wireless certification necessary to be able to sell the ProtoThrottle in Europe. Please contact Scott at www.ProtoThrottle.com and he can fill you in on any other plans that might be in the works.-Tom
OK thanks for your quick reply - I know that frequency issues often stall US products coming to the UK/Europe (and vice versa of course) but I'll see what the guys say. It looks so much fun to drive!
Hi Jeffery, Tim makes up his own work list and car lists on his computer. They are designed from the prototype forms he uses on the NS. Here is a link to a MRH blog that Tim did on his switch lists vs car cards. model-railroad-hobbyist.com/node/27553 You can also check out my website www.thomasklimoski.com where I have my own prototype based switch lists and a link to download them and make your own.-Tom
Well done. Maybe an explanation is in order for those not familiar with "three step". What about hand brakes? Do you have working derails at all the industries? The ProtoThrottle is very interesting. I liked your man on the ground.
Hi Mike, Depending on the railroad they might use the "three step" terminology or "red zone". Red zone seems to be more prevalent on western railroads while most eastern roads tend to use "three step" protection. Both terms mean exactly the same thing. The red zone is anything inside the plane of the outside edge of the cars and loco. When a crew member enters the red zone he must have "three step protection" to prevent movement of the train. So saying "red zone" means "entering the red zone" and effectively tells the engineer he must provide three step protection which is centering the reverser, setting the brakes sufficiently to prevent movement and turning the generator field switch to the off position. Each railroad will also have procedures on the number of hand brakes set for each area of the railroad. As an example, they may require only two brakes be applied on a flat yard track while a specific siding on a grade may require 100% application. Crews also have to make sure cars won't move after they apply the brakes, not many modelers replicate that procedure. Tim does not have derails on all his siding (yet). He recently installed two of them on his layout based on ones he saw on my layout. You can watch a video on my website that describes how I made mine. Go to the How To tab on my website and you'll see the link to the video. www.thomasklimoski.com The derails add a very prototypical step when operating. The ProtoThrottle is an awesome innovation. It really feels like you are in the cab of the locomotive. Hopefully you'll get a chance to see and operate one soon at one of the major train shows. I hope I have answered all your questions. If not you can contact me at tklimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to answer them.-Tom
Hi Eric, Thanks for your comments. The ProtoThrottle is the most realistic way to control your trains. Once you try one it is hard to go back to a regular knob throttle. If you have any questions about the ProtoThrottle you can e-mail me at tklimoski@gmail.com -Tom
In the video the crossing was flagged because it was during a shove move. The locomotive was several cars back from the crossing and the Engineer could not see and be assured the crossing was clear even if the lights and gates were working. Railroads require point protection for shove moves and the Conductor performed this role until the crossing was "covered". The Conductor is the Engineers eyes during shove moves and controls the movement based on their commands. If a normally protected crossing is out of service or down for repair, a stop and flag order will be issued to all train crews regardless of the direction of movement.-Tom
Hi Dave, When calling out car lengths the crews base it on 50' cars. While not all cars are the same length, it is a guide for an Engineer to estimate the distance when he can't see the end of the train. Many times you'll see the Engineer looking out the window at the ground when conducting a shove move, he is using stationary reference points to determine his speed and distance. It is easier to use " 10 car lengths" then try to say 500'. The Conductor can estimate how fast the cut is moving and adjust his count accordingly. Good crews know how each person works and some will say "that will do" even before the cars couple as they know how long it is going to take a particular Engineer to stop at the speed they are moving. As with all things on the railroad, safety is the key. Nobody wins when they make a hard joint. Hope this answers your questions.-Tom
Hi, Here is the FRA rule on the use of the whistle ("horn"). Yes, the FRA still calls the horn a whistle. 5.8.2 Sounding Whistle When weather conditions impair visibility, sound the whistle frequently. If the whistle fails, ring the bell continuously while moving. When other employees are working in the immediate area, sound the required whistle signal before moving. The radio may be used in place of whistle signals, except signals (1) emergency signal) and (1 1) grade crossing signal. The bell is used to warn prior to movement but does not have to be rung in continuous switching movements. The key is if "other workers or employees" are present in the area then sounding the bell and use of the whistle is required. It is not "wrong" to sound the whistle but it may not be required if no one else is around. The assumption is the crew should expect the movement so sounding the horn is not required. Thanks for your comments and I hope the rules quoted above answer your question.-Tom
Hi, The ProtoThrottle is wireless. You can get more information on the ProtoThrottle at www.ProtoThrottle.com. and to reserve a throttle. They are expecting to release the first batch of throttles in the summer. In addition, you can watch a video that I produced that gives you an Introduction to the ProtoThrottle and describes some of the features. Here is the link to the video th-cam.com/video/1a4pF1fXUCQ/w-d-xo.html It really is a innovative product and it will change how modelers interact with their locomotives. Once you operate with one, a knobby throttle will never feel right again.-Tom
Hi Walter, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job of operating the layout following the prototype practices and communication they use everyday. Following these procedures adds enjoyment to an ops session and makes a small layout operate much larger than it is. The use of the ProtoThrottle only enhances the experience. Tom
Love the realism of this. Might I ask what exact Loksound Sound File you are using in these SD40-2s and what momentum settings you programmed? Would love to set this up on my model of CSX 8888
Hi, Thanks for your comments. I'll have to check with Tim to see what sound file he has in his SD40-2s. Tim has CV3 programmed to 125 and CV4 to 255. Check out the Introduction to the ProtoThrottle video to see more information on recommendations on setting up the locomotives to work with the ProtoThrottle.-Tom
I had these LolSound decoders installed by BradleyDCC. I’m not sure which SD40-2 file he chose but any with the Full Throttle file will work. Just make sure you set CV3 around 125 and CV4 to max. Momentum should be set around 80-100. Tim
Hi, Yes Tim and Nathan are both NS employees and work together. They did an excellent job or replicating the communication and procedures they use everyday. Be sure to check out Tim's TH-cam Seaboard Central channel. Hope you enjoyed the video.-Tom
Hi Peter, The ProtoThrottle adds that extra level of realism that we have been missing with a regular throttle. With the ProtoThrottle you actually feel like you are controlling a prototype locomotive. I have found that it added about 10 minutes to an ops session on my layout as the engineer has to slow down to realistically operate the locomotive.-Tom
Hi David, Thanks for your comments. The new ProtoThrottle is really fun to operate with, it places you in the cab of the locomotive and is very realistic. The other benefit is it causes you to slow down and operate more prototypical which is good thing if you have a small layout.-Tom
Hi David, We (Tim, Nathan and I) appreciate your comments. For me there is nothing worse than seeing trains run at NASCAR speed around a layout. We believe in slowing down and enjoying the ops session. Follow the prototype procedures and it really makes the ops session more enjoyable.-Tom
Hi Ryan, Thanks for your comments. I'll make sure Tim sounds the horn before moving the locomotives at the next ops session ;), although he did use the bell when leaving the loco service area. -Tom
Hi Thanks for your comments. Conductors learn how to adjust their car count based on the engineer they are working with, it all comes with experience. I watched a prototype video the other day with the radio transmission from the conductor, "one car" then BAMMM. So I would say Tim and Nathan were prototypical ;) It is all part of the fun of trying to operate realistically.-Tom
Next time try 2 gp 38-2. When you work on a railroad. Modeling like that bring on a hole new meaning. All you need now is dynamic brake and the train line.
Brandon Richardson Norfolk Southern is actually phasing out a lot of the GP38-2 and there are very few around our area. 90% of our yard switching and industrial work is done with SD40-2’s with just a handful of industries that have tight curves that require a 4 axel. But in all reality we use what is available to us when we walk out the depot to go to work.
SD40-2s have the same gear ratio they have always had, most same as GP38-2s. GP50s and GP60s have a higher ratio and are better suited for the main although most now are being used in local service.
Hi Tom, Glad you enjoyed the video. The ProtoThrottle is a blast to operate, I really felt like I was in the cab of the locomotive. Once you operate with a ProtoThrottle going back to a standard knob throttle just won't feel right.-Tom
nice vid... for added realism tim should be stretched out, on a sofa perhaps, with his feet up sipping coffee from his NS safety award coffee mug (name a class 1 that hasn't passed out one of those as a safety award🤣) while he's doing this... don't get no more real than that... also @ 13:17, that's where the trainmaster or traveling engr will pull an efficiency test on the engr... they come up to the foreman and tell him to tell the engr to back up 10 cars (unbeknownst to the engr) and then don't say anything else... as you said the engr has to stop in half of the distance specified or it's an efficiency test failure... but we had a warning system by getting really formal on the radio with the transmission, that's a clue that there's trouble brewing and to look sharp
The throttle looks very neat, but I have ZERO interest pretending to do somebody else’s day job as a hobby. I know a lot of people like it, but this is not my idea of model railroad fun. Just sayin...
Jonathan Hatfield the great thing about model railroading is that there are so many things that folks can do to enjoy the hobby. Operations is just one facet. I also enjoy scenery and weathering rolling stock. I find both relaxing and rewarding. Thanks for watching.
Hi Jonathan, Thanks for your honest comments. Operations is not for everyone and that's fine with us. As Tim said, their are so many other ways to enjoy model railroading and I agree. Find what you truly like about model railroading and do what you enjoy. It would be very boring if we all liked and modeled the same thing.-Tom
A very insightful look at this throttle and how it's used, you guys did a great job running the show well done.
I really love your layout also, very realistic and big attention to detail makes for a beautiful setup.
Many thanks.
tones1957 (New Zealand)
Hi Tony, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job on the video and demonstrating the ProtoThrottle. Be sure to check out Tim Garland's new layout on his TH-cam channel Seaboard Central.-Tom
This has to be the most realistic operating session i've ever seen! Both guys did a fantastic job! The throttle is very prototypical, this will revolutionize model railroading.
Hi Mike, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job on the video. I got to use the ProtoThrottle after we filmed the video and it really made me feel like I was in the cab of the locomotive. You are right, I think this throttle will be a huge step forward in revolutionizing how model railroaders operate their locomotives.-Tom
I loved watching this! Hearing how actual engineers and conductors communicate and the procedures is very insightful and sure does add geratly to the realism of operations.
Hi, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did a great job or replicating the communication and procedures they use everyday at work on the NS. It really adds another level of realism to an ops session.- Tom
Very cool! I've never witnessed an actual operating session before. I appreciate the definitions of the lingo being used. Very well done!
Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did a great job replicating the work they do everyday on the NS. I added the captions to help explain the procedures used for those that are not familiar with the language and operations practices. Once you hold an ops session you'll see how much fun they can be and it will get you hooked on operations.-Tom
Fantastic video. I learned a lot watching the professionals at work. I can't wait to get my hands on a Proto Throttle!
Hi Alex, Yes the ProtoThrottle would be a perfect addition to your layout. Tim and Nathan did a great job demonstrating how the professionals work everyday with the communication and procedures. When you get a ProtoThrottle let me know and I'll be glad to help you set it up and configure your locomotives.-Tom
One of the best model railroad videos on TH-cam! Nice Job!
Hi Dennis, Thanks for your comments.-Tom
MAN!!!! This is the most realistic video of true operations on an HO layout I have ever seen! Especially beens the operators are you a Real NS engineer and your buddy being a real NS conductor! WOW, you guys must really love your jobs and trains to work this way. Dang man, this is so enjoyable and AWESOME too watch!!! Thanks, you must make more like this!!!
Hi Gary, Thanks for your comments, I'll pass them on to Tim and Nathan. They both did an excellent job of communicating how they do on the prototype during the ops session. Be sure to check out the video of Tim operating with me on my layout on my TH-cam channel. th-cam.com/video/qGBBFLXseoA/w-d-xo.html
Also check out my website at www.thomasklimoski.com to see more about my GNRR layout and subscribe to my blog.-Tom
This is amazing. Having you guys who do this in real life makes this so much more fun!
Hi Rob, Thanks for your comments I'll pass them along to Tim and Nathan. It was nice to see two professionals operating a model railroad just like they do everyday on the prototype.-Tom
Thank You Tim, Nathan and Thomas for the Demo of the Throttle! It looks like a cool item to add to the mix and it brings the layout to the realism that we can use.
Hi Kevin, Thank you for your comments. The ProtoThrottle is a great addition to any layout that adds a prototypical realism to operating your model locomotive.-Tom
hi Thomas... that was pretty awesome to have a real engineer & conductor doing this op session.. 2 thumbs up & thanks for sharing.. vinny
Hi Vinny, Thanks for your comments. It was great watching and listening to how the pros conduct an ops session.-Tom
These guys have the best of both worlds, play at home and at work!! I know it's the same as my nuclear security and safety first, but it makes a world of difference when you can love your job. My live steam railroad in the yard will be the closest I will come to the real thing. Loved the video, thanks for sharing
Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job of replicating what they do on a daily basis for the ops session on Tim's layout. By following the prototype procedures you can time and interest to an ops session without adding any track or making the layout larger.-Tom
Just found this video and like someone else said, I wish there were more. In fact, I hope you do some more of these videos. Thanks again.
Hi, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan, both professional railroaders, did a great job on the video following prototype procedures. I filmed a video with Tim Garland operating on my Georgia Northeastern layout. Here is a link to the video;
th-cam.com/video/qGBBFLXseoA/w-d-xo.html
You can also check out my website at www.thomasklimoski.com to see more about my layout, links to operations videos, and subscribe to my blog. -Tom
The throttle adds a bunch.. True two man crews. Hearing the car counts brings back memories of my time on CNW at proviso...yup CNW..not UP. We used call "Makin' weenies" to the hogger to let when him/her know we were between cars.
Great job guys!! A good crew is a safe crew.
Thanks. Greg
Hi Greg, Thanks for your comments. Operating with a two person crew is how I prefer to operate. It adds so much to the ops session and I enjoy the interaction between the crew. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job demonstrating how professional railroaders operate today. The ProtoThrottle adds that extra dimension of realism to an ops session with the prototypical controls. It really makes you feel like you are in the cab of the locomotive.-Tom
Exactly were i work.Can't wait to pull the pin. I started in another craft till i transferred to TE&Y.
Wow ... excellent look into how to operate a model railroad like the real ones. Thanks Tim and Nathan.
Hi David, Thanks for your comments. We wanted to produce a video that demonstrates following some of the prototype procedures add a lot of fun to an ops session.-Tom
This video was awesome! It was very enlightening to see actual RR personnel doing step by step procedures. You've definitely influenced me to make my layout more prototypical. This will definitely make running trains more fun and interesting in the future. Thanks again for sharing a small part of what you guys do on a daily basis.
Hi David, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job demonstrating the procedures and language used by them on a daily basis. The more you get into prototypical operations you'll find that it makes your layout operate like a much larger one. The ProtoThrottle is a great innovation and makes you really feel like you are operating a prototype locomotive and it helps you to slow down and plan your moves, just like the pros.-Tom
wow, that was pretty cool to have a real conductor and engineer doing this.
Hi Mr. Blue, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job of operating the model railroad following their NS procedures. Having a two person crew helps each person concentrate on their specific job.-Tom
Guys, what a great how too, tutorial. Very impressive. I'm from Australia and model USA prototype so watching how you go about switching and listening to the chatter will add value to my ops sessions. Great work. Oh and the throttle is very interesting. Thanks heaps.
Hi Duncan, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job of replicating what they do on a daily basis. Working with a two person crew for local switching adds that extra level of realism with the communication between them. It also helps to slow the ops session down which is great for those modelers with small layouts.-Tom
I could watch these guys all day!! Great video, I want to see more ops with these guys! (the throttle is on my wishlist!
Hi Joe, Thanks for your comments. I hope you were able to reserve your ProtoThrottle on the website. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job demonstrating the prototype procedures. We'll try to do more ops sessions, we enjoyed filming it as much as you did watching.-Tom
Man, I wish I could find more like this on TH-cam. You guys were great. The controller is interesting and something for me to watch as my needs change.
Hi Bruce, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did a great job of replicating how they switch on the NS. Following the prototype practices adds time (and more fun) to an ops session. The benefit with operating with a two person crew is that it allows each person to concentrate on performing their job and also enjoy the communication and interaction as they operate. The ProtoThrottle is awesome innovation that places you in the cab of the locomotive as you operate.-Tom
Great demonstration gentlemen.
Thanks for your comments.-Tom
A really informative video! Helping out at the local railway museum I learned that the driver/engineer can see very little of what's going on compared to a modeller towering over his train. Our model club has a loco fitted with a miniature wifi camera (source unknown); looking at the screen gives a real driver's eye view. Combined with the procedures used in the video you could really get the feeling of being real train crew!
Hi Roy, Thanks for your comments. Until you work on a railroad you don't understand how dependent the engineer is on the conductor for controlling the movements. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job of demonstrating how they communicate on the prototype. Using a two person crew for switch jobs on our model railroads allows us to follow the prototype procedures and I think adds a lot of fun to an ops session. Be sure to check out my website at www.ThomasKlimoski.com for more videos and to see my GNRR layout.- Tom
This is great!
Hi Lance, Thanks for your comments.-Tom
Just subbed. This ops session was awesome. It makes the session seem more like the real thing with 2 real-life railroaders performing in their natural habitat. They must feel at home doing their normal duties for NS. That throttle system looks amazing. If my layout wasn’t so small I’d really look into getting this system when it releases. Love how the modern conductor figure moved around the layout. Thanks for sharing.
Cheers from the Meridian & Southern RR 🚂
Hi, Thanks for your comments and subscribing. Tim and Nathan did a great job with the ops session. As they mentioned in the video, they work together almost everyday and make a great team. Modeling the small details like derails and following the prototype procedures makes a small layout operate like a much larger one by extending an ops session. The ProtoThrottle is perfect for a small layout where you have the time to operate more slowly and it really makes you feel like you are in the cab.-Tom
Very nice op. Thanks for the video, it gives us a good look at how to operate. Your layout is looking great too.
Hi, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did a great job of explaining and demonstrating how they operate Tim's layout just like they do everyday on the prototype. Be sure to subscribe to Tim's TH-cam channel, Seaboard Central, to see more about his layout and ops sessions.-Tom
So that's how switching a local actually works. Very cool to see it in its entirety and get the actual nuts and bolts of what is going on.
Hi, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan, both professional railroaders, really show how the prototype crews communicate and I think it adds realism to an ops session.-Tom
@@ThomasKlimoski It really does add realism! It's fantastic.
Wow, what an awesome video! Great work. Very interesting to hear the different terminology used by crews in the USA compared to here in New Zealand. That throttle looks like it will be a very popular product. Will be adding to my shopping list.
Hi Craig, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did a great job on the ops session. We wanted everyone to hear how a prototype crew communicates during switching operations, that is not something easily heard unless you have a scanner. I enjoy the interaction between the crew and that's why I prefer two person crews to operate on my layout. The ProtoThrottle is great fun to operate and perfect for a small switching layout.-Tom
This is awesome! It's realistic... right down to the crew!!!
Hi Brad, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job of replicating how they operate and communicate everyday on the NS. It helps you appreciate and understand the communications that take place during switching operations. The ProtoThrottle adds that extra bit of realism and makes you feel like you are operating a prototype locomotive. -Tom
That is simply awesome! Excellent video, very insightful.
Thanks for your comments.-Tom
Hey Thomas congratulations on getting your article in the model railroader in March looking forward to reading about it
Hi Lee, Thanks, I appreciate the comments and recognition.-Tom
This is a coolest throttle on the market
Hi Randy, Thanks for your comments. You are right, the ProtoThrottle has a high cool factor. I got to operate with it after we filmed the ops session and it was a blast to operate. I really felt like I was in the cab of the locomotive. One benefit is that you really have to slow down and plan your moves just like the prototype, which makes an ops session on a small layout last longer.-Tom
Thanks
Your video is the first time I get switching paperwork and operations. Thank you !
:)
Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did a great job demonstrating and explaining how they operate the model railroad following procedures they do everyday on the prototype. You can also go over to my website at www.ThomasKlimoski.com to see similar switch lists and how I operate on my layout along with links to my operations videos. Tim also host a ops session on my layout. -Tom
very interesting to hear and watch the verbiage play out.. pretty neat stuff. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks for your comments. Operating with a two person crew is how I prefer to operate. It adds so much to the ops session and I enjoy the interaction between the crew. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job demonstrating how professional railroaders operate today. The ProtoThrottle adds that extra dimension of realism to an ops session with the prototypical controls. It really makes you feel like you are in the cab of the locomotive.-Tom
Awesome video. I would love to see more videos like this in the future keep up the good work.
Hi Eric, Thanks for your comments. I plan to post more operations videos on my TH-cam channel in the near future.-Tom
ThomasKlimoski Check out my channel when you have time. I don't know if you ever have? Just type my name in the search bar and my channel comes up tape in ericehlers. I'm a big modeler of Mopac. IC. And GM&O keep the videos coming they're awesome it's really helped me out to do a little weathering myself.
Hi Eric, Thanks, I subscribed to your channel. Keep up the good work on your layout and I look forward to more updates.-Tom
I know the three step is:
First you zero out the throttle
Second you apply the brakes
Third you neutralize the direction switch (or center it out as some say)
Hi Robert, On NS the "Three Step" indicates the reverser is centered, the brakes are applied, and the field generator swtich is Off. On the ProtoThrottle there is not a field generator switch so the engineer just has to center the reverser and apply the brakes. You can't move the reverser unless the throttle is at idle or you will get a error message on the ProtoThrottle, which is the same on the prototype. Thanks for your comments and watching the video.-Tom
@@ThomasKlimoski thank you for the correction! I'm always striving to be as realistic as possible with my operations! 🤘😁🛤️
Hi Robert, I certainly am not an expert when it comes to locomotive and railroad operations, but fortunately I have a few friends that are professional railroaders who have taught me a lot of prototype operations and procedures. On the Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad where I was a part time trainman we used the phrase "Red Zone" instead of Three Step. It means the same thing, but the engineer would answer "Centered and Set" to indicate it was safe to enter a fouling position. Following a few of the prototype rules and procedures helps slow down an ops session and make a small layout operate like a much larger one. -Tom
This has been a great video to watch and learn from, both the operation side and the side using the Proto Throttle.. Watched the first video and I want one, Now I've watched and still want one!! LOL Thanks for shooting this video and sharing with everyone.
D. Muse WTCMRR
Hi David, Glad you enjoyed the video. Operating with a ProtoThrottle adds a whole new dimension to model railroading. I got to use the ProtoThrottle after we filmed the video and it really made me feel like I was in the cab of the locomotive. I think once you try one you'll never go back to a standard throttle.-Tom
THANK YOU FOR DETAIL VIDEO ON NEW PROTO THROTTLE IN OPERATION ON DETAIL LAYOUT SHOW IT WORK SO SMOOTH ALL TIME MAKE LOOK REAL LIFE.
THANKS.
Hi Robert, Thanks for your comments. The ProtoThrottle is so much fun to operate with and the most realistic throttle on the market.-Tom
I sure enjoyed watching this and learned a lot. I’ve tried the throttle and that made me want to more about the sequence or operating steps when moving the engine or at stop; things like what the reverser’s position when we’re stopped and such.
Hi Chris, Thanks for your comments and I'll pass them on to Tim. The ProtoThrottle actually makes you follow the proper steps as the throttle will not let you change directions without the throttle lever being in idle or you get an error (the prototype also does not allow direction changes without being in idle). Any time the conductor is in a dangerous fouling position (red zone or three step) in between or on the equipment, the reverser must be in idle and the brake applied (in addition on the prototype the field generator switch off). -Tom
Tom what an inspirational video. This type of operation is what has inspired me to try to build a ProtoTrottle Steam version over here in Australia. If I can work out all the issues I look forward to doing switching just like you guys have done here. One problem, 1925 doesn’t have radios to talk between driver and conductor.
Hi Mark, Thanks for your comments. I really enjoy operating like Tim and Nathan demonstrated in the video. Recently I operated on another layout set in the 1940's so radio communication was not realistic. We used hand signals to communicate between the crew members, which was really fun and much more realistic for the time period. Good luck on your steam version of the ProtoThrottle. Once you have it working you should post a video, I know that many others would like to see it.-Tom
I like the sounds you have with the bell, horn & engine which other videos I've seen have the same sounds.
Hi Doug, Thanks for the comments on Tim's layout and operating session. Tim has had some custom sound files loaded into his decoders by Bradley DCC. You can see more about Tim's layout on his Seaboard Central TH-cam channel. -Tom
Awesome video.
Thanks for your comments.-Tom
Your welcome. I uploaded my first video today. I'm really happy with it.
I never really understood why the conductor said three step and why the engineer repeated with double check when I listened on my scanner. but now ik thank you guys. great video
Hi Jason, Thanks for your comments. Tim informed me that NS has that (double check) as a standard procedure to make sure the switch is properly lined and the derail removed, one more safety procedure that could prevent an accident. Not all railroads use the term "three step" for the conductor to enter the danger area, several railroads use the term "red zone", and the Engineer would answer back "centered and set, OK to step in ", different terms but the same meaning. It all has to do with safety and following procedures set up by the railroads to make sure everyone goes home at the end of the day.-Tom
Yes, "red zone" seems to be more prevalent on western railroads while most eastern roads tend to use "three step" protection. Both terms mean exactly the same thing. The red zone is anything inside the plane of the outside edge of the cars and loco. When a crew member enters the red zone he must have "three step protection" to prevent movement of the train. So saying "red zone" means "entering the red zone" and effectively tells the engineer he must provide three step protection which is centering the reverser, setting the brakes sufficiently to prevent movement and turning the generator field switch to the off position.
Outstanding! Thanks yall.
Thanks for your comments.-Tom
What a great video. Very interesting. It will certainly make me want to operate better. The throttle looks the business. Keith
Hi Keith, Thanks for your comments. The ProtoThrottle certainly makes operating a model locomotive more prototypical as you have to slow down and plan your moves.-Tom
This was so awesome!! thanks for the video.
Thanks for your comments.-Tom
This is not a model railroad; this is a traing video! ... lol! This is THE best compliment I can think of. Has that crew considered submitting this to NS so they can decide if they should make some of these layouts for training. Computer simulators have the advantage being able to reprogram multiple times to simulate real railroads, but hands on DOES have some advantages...
LOVE the throttle! Is it compatible with digitrax?
Hi Seth, Thanks for the compliments. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job of demonstrating the procedures they follow everyday on the NS. I know some railroads have started using model railroads to teach newcomers how to operate and switch. I'll mention it to Tim to see if he wants to forward it to the training guys at NS. Using the ProtoThrottle just adds that little extra dose of realism to the ops session. Be sure to check out my website at www.ThomasKlimoski.com to see more videos and check out my GNRR layout. Tim hosted an ops session on my layout and it was a real learning experience. -Tom
VERY interested in this new product. Bit pricey on the Iowa site. Also have to buy a special receiver to connect with an exsisting system. Still....I am watching this closely. Thanks for the great video and demo you guys!
Hi TMandN, Thanks for your comments. The ProtoThrottle is about the cost of two DCC locomotives and I feel well worth the cost. The ProtoThrottle is exceptionally well built (in the USA) and the controls operate smoothly. The real fun comes when you operate with it. I got to use the ProtoThrottle after I filmed the ops session and I really felt like I was in the cab of the locomotive. I think if you purchase one you won't be disappointed.-Tom
At first I thought it was too expensive but as pointed out it's about the price of two locomotives and the enhanced realism should be well worth the cost. As I understand there currently is not a way to use with Digitrax. I certainly hope that's not the case or if it is the case it is corrected quickly.
Hi Ryan, The developers will have the ProtoThrottle working with Digitrax by the summer. The throttle will communicate with a receiver which will then connect via WiFi to a Digitrax LNWI or computer running JMRI connected to your Digitrax Loconet system. It is a little more complicated than connecting it directly to a NCE system but they had to do it that way as Digitrax would not allow them to connect directly to their Loconet system. I will be one of the Bata testers for the ProtoThrottle using the Digitrax system so I'll let you know how it works out. It really is an awesome throttle.-Tom
Great video
Hi Trenton, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did a great job.-Tom
would you ever consider doing a more detailed toutorial on prototype operating, including the language that you are using, how to use those switch list (detailing more how to setup, read, and fill out while operating)?
crownironman we can do that. Be sure to check out my Seaboard Central channel for updates
Hi Crownironman, Be sure to check out Tim's Seaboard Central TH-cam channel. I have a website where I have my prototypical based switch lists and information on how I designed and use them for my layout. The forms are based on the ones used by the GNRR while Tim's are based on the forms he uses on the NS. I plan on doing more prototypical operations videos. Here is the link to my website;
www.thomasklimoski.com.
Thanks for your comments.-Tom
Super cool... thanks guys
Hi Warren, Be sure to subscribe to Tim Garland's Seaboard Central TH-cam channel if you have not already. Tim is doing more videos on operations. The ProtoThrottle is the most realistic way to control your model diesel locomotives and is a game changer when it comes to model railroad operations. Thanks for your comments.-Tom
That Industry Work Order (2:17) looks like it was produced and output by ProTrak. Was it?
Hi, Tim makes his Work Orders (switch lists) on an Excel spread sheet based on the prototype NS forms he uses everyday. Tim's Work Orders are not auto generated, he manually inputs the car information to control car counts and industries switched.-Tom
@@ThomasKlimoski OK, thanks. It just looked like something that ProTrak, a very sophisticated model railroad operating software, would generate automatically for an ops session.
Awesome! Thanks so much. My questions would be, what do you use to produce the "industry work order" and the "track inventory"? I'm part of a modular club and think this might be the easiest method for me to implement for operating sessions. Thanks in advance!
Hi Scott, Thanks for your comments. Tim Garland has a blog on MRH where he discusses switch lists vs car cards. Here is a link to the blog;
model-railroad-hobbyist.com/node/27553
Tim types up his work orders and track inventory using his computer and manually enters the information needed for his ops sessions.
In addition, I have a website where I have copies of my switch lists that can be downloaded and modified to fit your railroad. My switch lists are based on the prototype switch lists used by the Georgia Northeastern. Here is a link to my website;
www.thomasklimoski.com
Good luck on your switch list project.-Tom
Thanks for keeping the speeds prototypical! Excellent looking throttle...on the buy list. On another note, Any particular program for track inventory and switch lists?
Andrew Baird no I just typed them up in Word. I tried to make them similar to what we have on the NS.
Excellent! I left CP 3 years ago. Have a great night.
Very impressive.
Hi, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did a great job demonstrating the prototype communication and procedures. The ProtoThrottle is a great new innovation and is really fun to operate.-Tom
Hey man, I really dig your videos but I have a question regarding the throttle. Can this be used on a digitrax railroad and if so does it have to be used in tandem with a digitrax throttle? Also where can I find these?
Hi Nathan, Yes the ProtoThrottle can be used on a layout that operates with a Digitrax system. You need to have a Digitrax LNWI receiver to connect the Digitrax system to the ProtoThrottle receiver. It sounds complicated but it really is not. I have a video showing how the ProtoThrottle is connected to my Digitrax system and a little more information on the ProtoThrottle. Here is a link to the video;
th-cam.com/video/ApOdbVu_F9M/w-d-xo.html
You can see more about the ProtoThrottle and order directly from ISE on their website at;
www.iascaled.com/store/ProtoThrottle
Any questions let me know. You can contact me through my website at www.thomasklimoski.com
Wow, Those lights on your locomotives are beautiful. What kind of LED's did you use, and what decoder is in the locomotive? Thanks.
Hi, I'll have to ask Tim about the ditch lights, but I know that he had the locomotives upgraded by Bradley DCC and he installed a ESU Loksound decoder in the locomotive. I added ditch lights to my Georgia Northeastern locomotives with Warm White SMD 0402 LEDs and ditch light castings from Details West. The LED lights were pre-wired and purchased on E-Bay. You can see the ditch lights on the locomotive at the beginning of my latest TH-cam video;
th-cam.com/video/K9gCtkRZnu0/w-d-xo.html
Thanks for your comments. -Tom
@@ThomasKlimoski Thanks so much for the info, as well as your fast response.
Fabulous As always....The real deal ! Love the throttle. Is it available commercially?
Hi Thomas, Thanks for your comments. Yes you can purchase the ProtoThrottle directly from Iowa Scaled Engineering. Here is a link to their website;
www.iascaled.com/store/MRBW-CST
Remember you also need to order a receiver depending on what DCC system you are using.-Tom
Watching this in the UK and loved seeing the guys doing their jobs - some real food for thought about how to make my own sessions more realistic and enjoyable. I see the ProtoThrottle is not available for the UK market at this moment in time. Are you guys planning to offer it to the British market at some point?
Hi Ian, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did a great job of replicating what they do everyday for a living. Unfortunately, at this time the guys at ISE are not planning to get the wireless certification necessary to be able to sell the ProtoThrottle in Europe. Please contact Scott at www.ProtoThrottle.com and he can fill you in on any other plans that might be in the works.-Tom
OK thanks for your quick reply - I know that frequency issues often stall US products coming to the UK/Europe (and vice versa of course) but I'll see what the guys say. It looks so much fun to drive!
where do you get the work list. and car list
Hi Jeffery, Tim makes up his own work list and car lists on his computer. They are designed from the prototype forms he uses on the NS. Here is a link to a MRH blog that Tim did on his switch lists vs car cards. model-railroad-hobbyist.com/node/27553
You can also check out my website www.thomasklimoski.com where I have my own prototype based switch lists and a link to download them and make your own.-Tom
Well done. Maybe an explanation is in order for those not familiar with "three step". What about hand brakes? Do you have working derails at all the industries? The ProtoThrottle is very interesting. I liked your man on the ground.
Hi Mike, Depending on the railroad they might use the "three step" terminology or "red zone". Red zone seems to be more prevalent on western railroads while most eastern roads tend to use "three step" protection. Both terms mean exactly the same thing. The red zone is anything inside the plane of the outside edge of the cars and loco. When a crew member enters the red zone he must have "three step protection" to prevent movement of the train. So saying "red zone" means "entering the red zone" and effectively tells the engineer he must provide three step protection which is centering the reverser, setting the brakes sufficiently to prevent movement and turning the generator field switch to the off position.
Each railroad will also have procedures on the number of hand brakes set for each area of the railroad. As an example, they may require only two brakes be applied on a flat yard track while a specific siding on a grade may require 100% application. Crews also have to make sure cars won't move after they apply the brakes, not many modelers replicate that procedure.
Tim does not have derails on all his siding (yet). He recently installed two of them on his layout based on ones he saw on my layout. You can watch a video on my website that describes how I made mine. Go to the How To tab on my website and you'll see the link to the video.
www.thomasklimoski.com
The derails add a very prototypical step when operating.
The ProtoThrottle is an awesome innovation. It really feels like you are in the cab of the locomotive. Hopefully you'll get a chance to see and operate one soon at one of the major train shows.
I hope I have answered all your questions. If not you can contact me at tklimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to answer them.-Tom
Good show guys good show.
Hi Anthony, Thanks for your comments.-Tom
Love that throttle.
Hi Eric, Thanks for your comments. The ProtoThrottle is the most realistic way to control your trains. Once you try one it is hard to go back to a regular knob throttle. If you have any questions about the ProtoThrottle you can e-mail me at tklimoski@gmail.com -Tom
why do you need to flag a crossing that is protected? (protected means it has working lights and bells and/or gates)
In the video the crossing was flagged because it was during a shove move. The locomotive was several cars back from the crossing and the Engineer could not see and be assured the crossing was clear even if the lights and gates were working. Railroads require point protection for shove moves and the Conductor performed this role until the crossing was "covered". The Conductor is the Engineers eyes during shove moves and controls the movement based on their commands. If a normally protected crossing is out of service or down for repair, a stop and flag order will be issued to all train crews regardless of the direction of movement.-Tom
They always talk about car lengths when backing. Is the length of a 40 ft boxcar the same length as an 89 ft flat car ?
Hi Dave, When calling out car lengths the crews base it on 50' cars. While not all cars are the same length, it is a guide for an Engineer to estimate the distance when he can't see the end of the train. Many times you'll see the Engineer looking out the window at the ground when conducting a shove move, he is using stationary reference points to determine his speed and distance. It is easier to use " 10 car lengths" then try to say 500'. The Conductor can estimate how fast the cut is moving and adjust his count accordingly. Good crews know how each person works and some will say "that will do" even before the cars couple as they know how long it is going to take a particular Engineer to stop at the speed they are moving. As with all things on the railroad, safety is the key. Nobody wins when they make a hard joint. Hope this answers your questions.-Tom
This is really cool, but...arent you supposed to blow the horn in two short successions before moving forward or backward, even in a yard?
Hi, Here is the FRA rule on the use of the whistle ("horn"). Yes, the FRA still calls the horn a whistle.
5.8.2 Sounding Whistle
When weather conditions impair visibility, sound the whistle frequently.
If the whistle fails, ring the bell continuously while moving.
When other employees are working in the immediate area, sound the required whistle signal before moving.
The radio may be used in place of whistle signals, except signals (1) emergency signal) and (1 1) grade crossing signal.
The bell is used to warn prior to movement but does not have to be rung in continuous switching movements.
The key is if "other workers or employees" are present in the area then sounding the bell and use of the whistle is required. It is not "wrong" to sound the whistle but it may not be required if no one else is around. The assumption is the crew should expect the movement so sounding the horn is not required.
Thanks for your comments and I hope the rules quoted above answer your question.-Tom
That controller is wireless? Is it available yet?
Hi, The ProtoThrottle is wireless. You can get more information on the ProtoThrottle at www.ProtoThrottle.com. and to reserve a throttle. They are expecting to release the first batch of throttles in the summer. In addition, you can watch a video that I produced that gives you an Introduction to the ProtoThrottle and describes some of the features. Here is the link to the video
th-cam.com/video/1a4pF1fXUCQ/w-d-xo.html
It really is a innovative product and it will change how modelers interact with their locomotives. Once you operate with one, a knobby throttle will never feel right again.-Tom
This is the Standard for op sessions.
Hi Walter, Thanks for your comments. Tim and Nathan did an excellent job of operating the layout following the prototype practices and communication they use everyday. Following these procedures adds enjoyment to an ops session and makes a small layout operate much larger than it is. The use of the ProtoThrottle only enhances the experience. Tom
Love the realism of this. Might I ask what exact Loksound Sound File you are using in these SD40-2s and what momentum settings you programmed? Would love to set this up on my model of CSX 8888
Hi, Thanks for your comments. I'll have to check with Tim to see what sound file he has in his SD40-2s. Tim has CV3 programmed to 125 and CV4 to 255. Check out the Introduction to the ProtoThrottle video to see more information on recommendations on setting up the locomotives to work with the ProtoThrottle.-Tom
I had these LolSound decoders installed by BradleyDCC. I’m not sure which SD40-2 file he chose but any with the Full Throttle file will work. Just make sure you set CV3 around 125 and CV4 to max. Momentum should be set around 80-100. Tim
I'll be darned. BradleyDCC is the one who did my model of 8888. He is a good guy.
Are y’all both railroad employees?
Hi, Yes Tim and Nathan are both NS employees and work together. They did an excellent job or replicating the communication and procedures they use everyday. Be sure to check out Tim's TH-cam Seaboard Central channel. Hope you enjoyed the video.-Tom
Definitely more engaging with the proto throttle. More proto feel with the slow final movement before coupling.
Hi Peter, The ProtoThrottle adds that extra level of realism that we have been missing with a regular throttle. With the ProtoThrottle you actually feel like you are controlling a prototype locomotive. I have found that it added about 10 minutes to an ops session on my layout as the engineer has to slow down to realistically operate the locomotive.-Tom
Like the throttle. ...
Hi David, Thanks for your comments. The new ProtoThrottle is really fun to operate with, it places you in the cab of the locomotive and is very realistic. The other benefit is it causes you to slow down and operate more prototypical which is good thing if you have a small layout.-Tom
Have seen just to many layouts running just under derailment speed. Not good. Also pet peve is videos not shot from a tripod.
Hi David, We (Tim, Nathan and I) appreciate your comments. For me there is nothing worse than seeing trains run at NASCAR speed around a layout. We believe in slowing down and enjoying the ops session. Follow the prototype procedures and it really makes the ops session more enjoyable.-Tom
Great video! But come on Tim, you didn't sound the horn before moving those locos!
Hi Ryan, Thanks for your comments. I'll make sure Tim sounds the horn before moving the locomotives at the next ops session ;), although he did use the bell when leaving the loco service area. -Tom
ThomasKlimoski as long as you recorded it as an efficiency test failure and briefed him about his failure it's all good, lol
Hi Ryan, All is documented in his personal folder. On to the next ops session!-Tom
At 6:00 the realism is evident. The car count is off, the engineer makes the joint very hard. Sorry, i couldn't resist.
Hi Thanks for your comments. Conductors learn how to adjust their car count based on the engineer they are working with, it all comes with experience. I watched a prototype video the other day with the radio transmission from the conductor, "one car" then BAMMM. So I would say Tim and Nathan were prototypical ;) It is all part of the fun of trying to operate realistically.-Tom
Next time try 2 gp 38-2. When you work on a railroad. Modeling like that bring on a hole new meaning. All you need now is dynamic brake and the train line.
Brandon Richardson Norfolk Southern is actually phasing out a lot of the GP38-2 and there are very few around our area. 90% of our yard switching and industrial work is done with SD40-2’s with just a handful of industries that have tight curves that require a 4 axel. But in all reality we use what is available to us when we walk out the depot to go to work.
nhannon8 we got two on the Sequatchie Valley 5180 and 5121 both high hoods
The SC has a few GP38-2s including one ex NS high hood. We’ll be sure to run them on the next op session. Thanks!
were sd40s that used to run in long-distance haul regeared for low speed yard / industrial work?
SD40-2s have the same gear ratio they have always had, most same as GP38-2s. GP50s and GP60s have a higher ratio and are better suited for the main although most now are being used in local service.
Man O Man, talk about whetting my appetitive.....
Hi Tom, Glad you enjoyed the video. The ProtoThrottle is a blast to operate, I really felt like I was in the cab of the locomotive. Once you operate with a ProtoThrottle going back to a standard knob throttle just won't feel right.-Tom
nice vid... for added realism tim should be stretched out, on a sofa perhaps, with his feet up sipping coffee from his NS safety award coffee mug (name a class 1 that hasn't passed out one of those as a safety award🤣) while he's doing this... don't get no more real than that... also @ 13:17, that's where the trainmaster or traveling engr will pull an efficiency test on the engr... they come up to the foreman and tell him to tell the engr to back up 10 cars (unbeknownst to the engr) and then don't say anything else... as you said the engr has to stop in half of the distance specified or it's an efficiency test failure... but we had a warning system by getting really formal on the radio with the transmission, that's a clue that there's trouble brewing and to look sharp
r/modeltrains sent me
The throttle looks very neat, but I have ZERO interest pretending to do somebody else’s day job as a hobby. I know a lot of people like it, but this is not my idea of model railroad fun. Just sayin...
Jonathan Hatfield the great thing about model railroading is that there are so many things that folks can do to enjoy the hobby. Operations is just one facet. I also enjoy scenery and weathering rolling stock. I find both relaxing and rewarding. Thanks for watching.
Hi Jonathan, Thanks for your honest comments. Operations is not for everyone and that's fine with us. As Tim said, their are so many other ways to enjoy model railroading and I agree. Find what you truly like about model railroading and do what you enjoy. It would be very boring if we all liked and modeled the same thing.-Tom