Terrific layout and ops session, I think your editing is the best I have seen, really wish more model railroaders would take more care when editing, thanks for all your labors
Hi Buz, Thanks for your comments on my video. I do spend a lot of time editing the videos and I appreciate your recognition of my efforts. I try to tell a story and highlight some prototype procedures with my videos rather than just show trains running around on my layout. Be sure to check out my website at www.ThomasKlimoski.com to see more about my layout and blog.-Tom
Another well orchestrated video Tom. The pace is always spot on, it’s right up there with the realism of your scenery/rolling stock. I play to apply the gate to a few locations on my railroad, it’s just too cool not to. One can’t get enough, the 8 minutes just flys right by! Thanks for posting and as always, we’ll be waiting for MORE!!! 😎
Hi William, Thanks as always for your comments, I really appreciate them. You were fortunate to catch the initial live premier of the video. I agree the countdown clock needed to go faster ;). That was unexpected feature of the TH-cam go live now check box, but I guess it worked out. Yes, the gate does have a "cool factor" that is hard to resist and it is not really that hard to build. I am looking forward to seeing an ops video on your layout soon, I am sure it will be great as you have an excellent prototype for your model railroad.-Tom
Nice ops session Tom. I actually just installed my sign you sent and also made some Blue Flag posts for a couple spots. 6576 sounds great! All the best, John
Hi John, Thanks for your comments. The video demonstrates you don't have to have a large layout to enjoy an ops session. Just switching this one industry took about 10 minutes, a nice mini ops session. The Stop Dismount sign is a neat little detail that instantly places your railroad in the modern era. I look forward to seeing your next video, and maybe the Blue Comet running???-Tom
Hi, Thanks for your comments. I spend a lot of time editing the video and typing in the captions and it is great to hear that you appreciate the work. I like to "tell a story" in my videos rather than just showing trains running around a layout. I appreciate you watching and taking the time to comment.-Tom
Hi Alex, Thanks for your comments. The track in the dirt and weeds is very common on the prototype so I wanted to represent that on my layout. The is a fine balance between making the track look unmaintained and still being able to operate a model locomotive over the track. I used N scale ballast over the tops of the ties so that it would not interfere with the flanges. I look forward to seeing your grain elevator tracks once you get some scenery on them. -Tom
Hi from the UK. I'm in the process of planning my layout for a 10' 6" x 11' 6" room. I have a printout of your track plan sat on my desk in front of me now serving as inspiration
Hi, Thank you for your comments. I am honored that you are using my track plan as inspiration for your layout. If you have any questions please email me at tklimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to answer them. As you can see from my videos and layout, you don't need a large layout to have a great ops session.-Tom
Hi Anthony, Thanks for your comments. I try to explain how prototype switching operations can be applied to our model railroads to enhance an ops session.-Tom
Hi Joey, Thanks for your comments. Yes, the GP9 is a classic high hood unit that the GNRR operates long hood forward. I was fortunate to be able to ride the prototype GNRR #6576 one day when the crew switched a few industries.- Tom
Hi Kraig, Thanks for your comments, I really appreciate them. I think that following the prototype rules and procedures adds realism to an ops session. Plus it helps to slow things down on our normally highly compressed layouts.-Tom
Great job Tom. You were by the book. I didn’t see any rule violations. :) Love that GP9 and it is set up perfectly to be operated with your ProtoThrottle. Tim
Hi Tim, Thanks, its always good to hear from a professional railroader that I got it right. I don't want to do any explaining to the safety boss that I didn't follow the rules. The GP9 is a good running and sounding locomotive, especially with the ProtoThrottle. I am looking forward to your next video, it should be out soon, right?-Tom
Hi Stephen, Great to hear from you and that you enjoyed the video. The video demonstrates you don't need a large layout to have a nice ops session, just switching the one industry took almost 10 minutes. -Tom
Hi Horst, great to hear from you and thanks for your comments on my video. Yes, the sound can be overwhelming especially the bell, that's why I always lower the volume from the factory settings.-Tom
Having worked as a railroad flagman, I find your narrative on this switching operation realistic to actual rail ops. I'm fascinated at your depth of detail, I've seen many videos online of other set-ups but yours have the smallest of details, which add to the realism. For instance the red flag in the coupler and wheel chock, without sounding critical, in my experience I've worked industry sidings where tank cars or air-slide hoppers must be spotted and not only protected by Blue Flag but a fixed derail to prevent movement when being loaded/unloaded. To date I've never seen any layouts with such details, even those with engine servicing facilities, ( ones needing Blue flags & Derails) . I'd like to comment on your locomotive sound effects, for GP 7 and 9's, are spot on. The sound of that engine winding up and down is what you hear while working with these engines and after a long hot day I can be quite tiresome. Keep up the good work.
Hi J. Sterling, Thank you for your comments. For me, the operational details add a prototypical element to a model railroad ops session. I also have blue flags at industries that have hoses connected to tank cars or covered hopper cars. All of this slows down an ops session and makes a smaller layout operate like a much larger one. All of my locomotives are equipped with LokSound decoders, which I think have some of the best sound files on the market. I was fortunate to ride a GP10 as a trainman on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway and the sound of my model locomotives perfectly replicates the sound of the engine that I remember. Be sure to check out my website at www.thomasklimoski.com where I post project updates and you can subscribe to my blog.- Tom
@@ThomasKlimoski Your train set ups are the ultimate in high tech future, it reminds me of how long ago i had a train set up as a kid in 1967, i wasn't much and is a far cry from today's set ups.
@@j.sterling9167 You are correct, the model trains these days are so much more advanced and realistic than we had even just a few years ago. The ultimate in realism is operating with a ProtoThrottle when paired with a DCC and sound equipped locomotive. Thanks again for your very nice comments, I truly appreciate it. -Tom
@@ThomasKlimoski I think the most obvious thing I am amazed by on these works of artistic detail are not only the dedication in design and detailed construction but the tremendous amounts of money that must be spent at today's market values. I heard on some videos the costs for the cars, especially the motorized engines with the micro electronic units for sound & light. it's no longer just a kid's fantasy to have a simple train set , it is a major financial investment.
@@j.sterling9167 Model railroads these days are not the $100 train sets that kids had years ago. Decoder and sound equipped locomotives are approaching $300, but they have so many more features and run so much better. One of the benefits of building a smaller layout is that you don't need so many locomotive and cars, which makes it more reasonable on the hobby budget. It all depends on your goals and what you enjoy about the hobby as to how much money you want to spend.- Tom
In the process of designing an HO layout with just a skosh more room that yours ( but only by a few inches, lol), based on the Frisco's operations in Paris, TX. Your layout is an inspiration and reference point in my design. Now to convince the BUREAU of Land Management (the missus) to cut out some holes in the closet walls so I can install a staging yard.lol
Hi Frisco Bob, Thanks for your comments. I honored to hear that my layout is an inspiration for your new layout. Your Frisco layout sounds very interesting. Good luck on your "land grab" and hopefully you'll be successful in your acquisition. If you have any questions as you design and build your layout send me an email at tklimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to answer them.-Tom
Hi Daniel, Thanks for the comments on my Great Model Railroads article. Be sure to check out my website at www.thomasklimoski.com where you can see more about my layouts, prototype, and subscribe to my blog. -Tom
Very nice work. It's amazing how much time is taken when following prototype practices. Just something else to model really. My layout runs through dark territory with hand thrown switches. Crews must be aware of the time required to get on and off the train as well as where the conductor is when switching. Much more interesting in my opinion. Well done! -Cheers -grant
Hi Grant, Thanks for your comments. I agree that following prototype practices really enhances an ops session and helps make a small layout operate like a much larger one. I use the conductor figure to help viewers understand the work a real conductor would be doing. Be sure to check out my website at www.thomasklimoski.com to see my switch lists and more about my layout. -Tom
Another enjoyable learning experience. Curious if the loco audio is on board. If on board can you share which mfr, model and speaker combination? I realize I'm listening through second and third generation (camera mic and listening speakers) and not directly with ears.
Hi Walter, Thank you for your comments. The sounds of the locomotive are on-board through the speaker on the locomotive, the only exception is the sound of the handbrakes being applied and released which is from the Traincrew app and speakers on my computer (see link in the video description above). The locomotive in this video is an Athearn GP9 with a factory installed speaker. I did upgrade the factory installed Tsunami decoder to a ESU Loksound decoder and used the factory speaker from Athearn. The sound file is one from ESU appropriate for a GP9. If I was to do the install again I would upgrade to the Scale Sound System speakers as I have several friends that highly recommend them after installing them on their locomotives. Even without the better speakers, the sound in person is acceptable to me. All of my locomotives have been upgraded to ESU Loksound decoders as that is my standard. If you have any more questions, please feel free to contact me at tklimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to answer them. -Tom
Hi Anthony, I use a product called "sticky tack", which is a clear waxy type materiel that is used to attach posters to a wall without damaging the wall or leaving a residue. I place a tiny amount on the conductors feet and then position the figure as needed. Occasionally I use a little bit on the figure's torso to hold him to the side of a car. The clear sticky tack is a little hard to find, but they have it in blue, yellow and white at most office supply stores.-Tom
Your layout is absolutely beautiful, and so detailed. Can you please tell me what company makes the chain link fence that you use on your layout. It is so detailed, just like the rest of your layout. I look forward to hearing back from you.
Hi, Thanks for your comments. The chain link fence around Dow and Capitol was scratch built using .020 wire and tulle (aka bridal vale). The fence frame was soldered together in large sections and the tulle was glued to the frame with CA. The fence was spray painted with an aluminum color paint. The "barbed wire" at the top of the fence is EZ line from Berkshire Junction. Alkem Scale Models does make a very nice etched metal chain link fence, but it would have been very expensive for the amount of fencing I needed. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me at tklimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to answer them. -Tom
Hey Tom, really enjoy your layout. I live nearby and am modeling the Gainesville Midland Subdivision. I'm curious what colors you've used for static grass, ballast, rails.
Hi Brandon, Sorry I have been slow to respond to your comment, I did not see it come in. If you can contact me at tklimoski@gmail.com I'll be glad to give you all the products that I use on my layout for scenery. Thanks for your comments and I look forward to hearing from you.-Tom
Thomas...enjoyed your video. You are the operations master. One question: which horn should the locomotive use when the consist is going forward even though the move is "backward" in terms of the locomotive's cab position? Thanks...Harold
Hi Harold, Thanks for your comments. I certainly am not a "master" when it comes to operations, but I have had a lot of great mentors who are professional railroaders that have passed their knowledge to me. Normally, a locomotive direction is determined by which end is specified as front, you'll see a small letter "F" on one end of the locomotive indicating front. As an example some GP9 ran long hood forward, while other railroads specified the short hood was forward. Instructions, horn signals, and commands are given based on the direction of the locomotive, not the way the cars are moving. It can get confusing when the movement is backing, but the locomotive is actually going forward. As I demonstrated in the video, the engineer gave three blasts for reverse (two blasts are for forward) when the crew was shoving into the siding. If the locomotive was pointed in the other direction and made the same move, the engineer would have given two blasts for moving forward even though the conductor sees it as a reverse move. I hope this information helps answer your question. If you have any more questions please don't hesitate to email me at tklimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to answer them. -Tom
Hi Tom, Great layout. I saw you on Yesturdays live chat Bill & John. Great interviews. Im looking forward to the next show. Youve packed a lot in to your layout. What are the Dimensions & shape? Cheers Grant ; )
Hi Grant, Great to hear from you. Thanks for tuning into the Small layout, big opportunities show on the Model Railroading Live channel. We'll show more of my layout in the next show. You can see more about my layout on my website at www.thomasklimoski.com where I have my track plan posted along with more information about my layout and operations. If you have any questions you can contact me at tklimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to answer them.- Tom
What a fantastic layout you have here! I love the detail of both the layout and the switching operations. Does ERB sill receive rail shipments? Thanks for sharing!
Hi, Thanks for your comments. As far as I know ERB still receives an occasional covered hopper of plastic pellets. I'll have to check with my GNRR sources to see if that has changed. Please check out my website at www.ThomasKlimoski.com for more information on my layout, switch lists, prototype photos, and blog.- Tom
Thomas Klimoski I am a fan of you're great videos and great artwork done by You to you're locomotives and track lay outs. I sent You a message to you're Facebook account about your work especially the Georgia Northeastern lettering on you're locomotives.
Hi Christopher, Thanks for your comments on my layout and videos. I don't really use Facebook except to follow the GNRR Facebook group. Can you please send me the message at tklimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to respond. I look forward to hearing form you. -Tom
It seems very strange that, on hearing three horn blasts, I need to know (i) which way the locomotive is pointing and (ii) which end of it the railroad considers to be the front, before I know whether the train is going to come towards me or go away. Not disputing that this is what actually happens, but it's not a smart way of doing it.
Hi, Thanks for your comments. Yes you are correct, the crew needs to establish which end is "front" on the locomotive. On the prototype GNRR GP9 unit #7562 the long hood is identified as Front, my model has a small letter F on the frame of the long hood identifying it as such and the same as the prototype. When I worked as a Trainman on the Blue Ridge Scenic, the engineer always told me to give directions as to where I was on the ground as he should always know where I am for safety. Other railroads may identify a specific compass direction as "front", such as a westward movement in a yard is given as move ahead regardless of the actual control position for Forward or Reverse direction in the locomotive. All of this should be discussed in a safety meeting prior to any work being done as well as the hand signals, whistle signals, or radio communication being used. The engineer can sound the horn prior to movement to warn those around that the movement is beginning. Typically two blasts is forward, and three is for reverse. Even with all that, I occasionally give the wrong direction command for the locomotive to move. A good engineer will verify the direction of movement and question if it is correct prior to moving. Using a two person crew for an ops session I think just adds to the fun. I hope you are enjoying watching my videos. You can see more about my layout on my website at www.thomasklimoski.com Thanks for watching and commenting.- Tom
Hi Mark, Thanks for your comments. Railroad switching operations really have not changed that much over the years except for crew size and radios. I recently participated at an ops session where the three person crew (engineer, conductor, and brakeman) used hand signals to communicate. It was really fun and added a new twist to switching operations. -Tom
ThomasKlimoski I’m thinking of two man crews as a norm. I don’t know hand signals nor do I think do many others so I guess that is an era based issue. But I can cope with six cars five cars sort of radios traffic between driver and conductor in the absence of hand signal knowledge. Ether way it’s a big improvement in model railway operations in my view
Hi Kinzer, Sorry I could not answer your question during the live premier. Like Ryan Grider said below, they are hard to find. I was fortunate to find a couple at a train show and the one car was sold to me by a friend. The one car in the video is I believe a Walthers 64' National 6200, which is the one I bought from my friend (no original box). The other car is a Atlas ACF 5701 Plastic Pellet Covered Hopper car. You might be able to find them on E-Bay or a local train show. I did see that Atlas is releasing a ACF 5800 plastic pellet hopper car with pre-orders due by last January. You might still be able to pre-order a few. I do wish manufacturers had more options for the cars and had them in stock. Good luck on your search, I am always looking for a few more to add to my fleet. -Tom
@@ThomasKlimoski Thank you for the information, I've been trying to find some for quite a while now. You're very lucky. You'd think with the high demand that they would produce more plain white covered hoppers
Kinzer Hurt here’s hoping! I currently have 15, and even with a small switching layout I don’t really have as many as I want. Between a transload track, and a plastics manufacturer with rail service. I have only enough to cycle the cars off and immediately back on the layout. The good news is, plastic resin cars are often in captive service going to and from the supplier to the receiver, to avoid cross contamination, so my cycle isn’t totally unrealistic. Still, I’d love another dozen of so cars, preferably in ECUX or ACFC livery. Good luck with your search!
Hi Ed, You gotta love the sound of the handbrakes setting and releasing! You designed a excellent program and I really enjoy using it, especially for the videos when I am operating alone. Using your app really adds to the feeling of working the switch job just like the pros do. The other thing it does is to help slow down the operations as all of that "stuff" takes time, perfect for a small layout. I have told so many people about your app and everyone has given me great feedback on using it. Thanks again for developing it and allowing me to use it in my videos.-Tom
Hi Joshua, there are not too many Klimoski's around so you are probably correct. If you would like to contact me and see if we are related that is fine with me. You can reach me through my website at www.thomasklimoski.com -Tom
Really great modeling and beautiful job on capturing the essence of working with the crew on the local switching job. Well done!
Hi Bill, I enjoy showing how to incorporate some prototype practices into an ops session and appreciate your comments on my layout and operations.-Tom
@@ThomasKlimoski that sounds like air brakes on the train unhook the train trailers
Terrific layout and ops session, I think your editing is the best I have seen, really wish more model railroaders would take more care when editing, thanks for all your labors
Hi Buz, Thanks for your comments on my video. I do spend a lot of time editing the videos and I appreciate your recognition of my efforts. I try to tell a story and highlight some prototype procedures with my videos rather than just show trains running around on my layout. Be sure to check out my website at www.ThomasKlimoski.com to see more about my layout and blog.-Tom
Another well orchestrated video Tom. The pace is always spot on, it’s right up there with the realism of your scenery/rolling stock. I play to apply the gate to a few locations on my railroad, it’s just too cool not to. One can’t get enough, the 8 minutes just flys right by! Thanks for posting and as always, we’ll be waiting for MORE!!! 😎
Hi William, Thanks as always for your comments, I really appreciate them. You were fortunate to catch the initial live premier of the video. I agree the countdown clock needed to go faster ;). That was unexpected feature of the TH-cam go live now check box, but I guess it worked out. Yes, the gate does have a "cool factor" that is hard to resist and it is not really that hard to build. I am looking forward to seeing an ops video on your layout soon, I am sure it will be great as you have an excellent prototype for your model railroad.-Tom
always a pleasure watching your videos. thanks
Hi Joe, Thanks for your comments. -Tom
Very nice video, Tom! Getting me in the model railroad groove.
Hi Tolga, Thanks for your comments. Say Hi to the guys at ECHOES for me and hopefully you all can get together and run some trains soon.-Tom
Nice ops session Tom. I actually just installed my sign you sent and also made some Blue Flag posts for a couple spots. 6576 sounds great! All the best, John
Hi John, Thanks for your comments. The video demonstrates you don't have to have a large layout to enjoy an ops session. Just switching this one industry took about 10 minutes, a nice mini ops session. The Stop Dismount sign is a neat little detail that instantly places your railroad in the modern era. I look forward to seeing your next video, and maybe the Blue Comet running???-Tom
Always great stuff coming from your channel. The typed narration is awesome explaining your planned moves and why. Thanks for sharing.
Hi, Thanks for your comments. I spend a lot of time editing the video and typing in the captions and it is great to hear that you appreciate the work. I like to "tell a story" in my videos rather than just showing trains running around a layout. I appreciate you watching and taking the time to comment.-Tom
Great video as always, Tom. I really like the "track in the dirt" look at ERB, I'm going for a similar look on my grain elevator tracks.
Hi Alex, Thanks for your comments. The track in the dirt and weeds is very common on the prototype so I wanted to represent that on my layout. The is a fine balance between making the track look unmaintained and still being able to operate a model locomotive over the track. I used N scale ballast over the tops of the ties so that it would not interfere with the flanges. I look forward to seeing your grain elevator tracks once you get some scenery on them. -Tom
Hi from the UK. I'm in the process of planning my layout for a 10' 6" x 11' 6" room. I have a printout of your track plan sat on my desk in front of me now serving as inspiration
Hi, Thank you for your comments. I am honored that you are using my track plan as inspiration for your layout. If you have any questions please email me at tklimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to answer them. As you can see from my videos and layout, you don't need a large layout to have a great ops session.-Tom
Great video, always look forward to your switching explanations. Thanks
Hi Anthony, Thanks for your comments. I try to explain how prototype switching operations can be applied to our model railroads to enhance an ops session.-Tom
Just outstanding layout. Keep up the great work
Hi Gary, Thanks for your comments, I really appreciate them. -Tom
Very welcome love the switching
Very enjoyable video. Always looking forward to seeing them.
Hi Jim, Thanks for your comments.-Tom
Excellent operating video! Love the high hood!- Joey G
Hi Joey, Thanks for your comments. Yes, the GP9 is a classic high hood unit that the GNRR operates long hood forward. I was fortunate to be able to ride the prototype GNRR #6576 one day when the crew switched a few industries.- Tom
THANK YOU FOR SHARE REAL OPERATION ON YOUR DETAIL LAYOUT AS GREAT TO WATCH
Hi Robert, Thanks for your comments.-Tom
Tom, you made another great ops video. I enjoy 😊 all the “extras “ .... it really does add to the realism 👍
Hi Kraig, Thanks for your comments, I really appreciate them. I think that following the prototype rules and procedures adds realism to an ops session. Plus it helps to slow things down on our normally highly compressed layouts.-Tom
Lovely video as always. Your layout is a joy to watch.
Hi, Thanks for your comments, I appreciate you watching and taking the time to comment. -Tom
Great job Tom. You were by the book. I didn’t see any rule violations. :) Love that GP9 and it is set up perfectly to be operated with your ProtoThrottle. Tim
Hi Tim, Thanks, its always good to hear from a professional railroader that I got it right. I don't want to do any explaining to the safety boss that I didn't follow the rules. The GP9 is a good running and sounding locomotive, especially with the ProtoThrottle. I am looking forward to your next video, it should be out soon, right?-Tom
Great for watching, as usual !
Hi, Thanks for your comments. I enjoyed your latest switching video.-Tom
Another great video. Thanks for keeping me inspired! Stephen
Hi Stephen, Great to hear from you and that you enjoyed the video. The video demonstrates you don't need a large layout to have a nice ops session, just switching the one industry took almost 10 minutes. -Tom
You did another nice episode again. I love your detailed comments. I am often annoyed by the sound of the locomotives, but it is right for you.
Hi Horst, great to hear from you and thanks for your comments on my video. Yes, the sound can be overwhelming especially the bell, that's why I always lower the volume from the factory settings.-Tom
Having worked as a railroad flagman, I find your narrative on this switching operation realistic to actual rail ops.
I'm fascinated at your depth of detail, I've seen many videos online of other set-ups but yours have the smallest of details, which add to the realism.
For instance the red flag in the coupler and wheel chock, without sounding critical, in my experience I've worked industry sidings where tank cars or air-slide hoppers must be spotted and not only protected by Blue Flag but a fixed derail to prevent movement when being loaded/unloaded.
To date I've never seen any layouts with such details, even those with engine servicing facilities, ( ones needing Blue flags & Derails) .
I'd like to comment on your locomotive sound effects, for GP 7 and 9's, are spot on. The sound of that engine winding up and down is what you hear while working with these engines and after a long hot day I can be quite tiresome. Keep up the good work.
Hi J. Sterling, Thank you for your comments. For me, the operational details add a prototypical element to a model railroad ops session. I also have blue flags at industries that have hoses connected to tank cars or covered hopper cars. All of this slows down an ops session and makes a smaller layout operate like a much larger one.
All of my locomotives are equipped with LokSound decoders, which I think have some of the best sound files on the market. I was fortunate to ride a GP10 as a trainman on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway and the sound of my model locomotives perfectly replicates the sound of the engine that I remember. Be sure to check out my website at www.thomasklimoski.com where I post project updates and you can subscribe to my blog.- Tom
@@ThomasKlimoski Your train set ups are the ultimate in high tech future, it reminds me of how long ago i had a train set up as a kid in 1967, i wasn't much and is a far cry from today's set ups.
@@j.sterling9167 You are correct, the model trains these days are so much more advanced and realistic than we had even just a few years ago. The ultimate in realism is operating with a ProtoThrottle when paired with a DCC and sound equipped locomotive. Thanks again for your very nice comments, I truly appreciate it. -Tom
@@ThomasKlimoski I think the most obvious thing I am amazed by on these works of artistic detail are not only the dedication in design and detailed construction but the tremendous amounts of money that must be spent at today's market values. I heard on some videos the costs for the cars, especially the motorized engines with the micro electronic units for sound & light. it's no longer just a kid's fantasy to have a simple train set , it is a major financial investment.
@@j.sterling9167 Model railroads these days are not the $100 train sets that kids had years ago. Decoder and sound equipped locomotives are approaching $300, but they have so many more features and run so much better. One of the benefits of building a smaller layout is that you don't need so many locomotive and cars, which makes it more reasonable on the hobby budget. It all depends on your goals and what you enjoy about the hobby as to how much money you want to spend.- Tom
Another Great video....
Hi Tom, Thanks for your comments. -Tom
In the process of designing an HO layout with just a skosh more room that yours ( but only by a few inches, lol), based on the Frisco's operations in Paris, TX. Your layout is an inspiration and reference point in my design. Now to convince the BUREAU of Land Management (the missus) to cut out some holes in the closet walls so I can install a staging yard.lol
Hi Frisco Bob, Thanks for your comments. I honored to hear that my layout is an inspiration for your new layout. Your Frisco layout sounds very interesting. Good luck on your "land grab" and hopefully you'll be successful in your acquisition. If you have any questions as you design and build your layout send me an email at tklimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to answer them.-Tom
i read you layout story in 2020 great modelrailroads every weekend
Hi Daniel, Thanks for the comments on my Great Model Railroads article. Be sure to check out my website at www.thomasklimoski.com where you can see more about my layouts, prototype, and subscribe to my blog. -Tom
Very nice work. It's amazing how much time is taken when following prototype practices. Just something else to model really. My layout runs through dark territory with hand thrown switches. Crews must be aware of the time required to get on and off the train as well as where the conductor is when switching. Much more interesting in my opinion. Well done! -Cheers -grant
Hi Grant, Thanks for your comments. I agree that following prototype practices really enhances an ops session and helps make a small layout operate like a much larger one. I use the conductor figure to help viewers understand the work a real conductor would be doing. Be sure to check out my website at www.thomasklimoski.com to see my switch lists and more about my layout. -Tom
Another enjoyable learning experience. Curious if the loco audio is on board. If on board can you share which mfr, model and speaker combination? I realize I'm listening through second and third generation (camera mic and listening speakers) and not directly with ears.
Hi Walter, Thank you for your comments. The sounds of the locomotive are on-board through the speaker on the locomotive, the only exception is the sound of the handbrakes being applied and released which is from the Traincrew app and speakers on my computer (see link in the video description above). The locomotive in this video is an Athearn GP9 with a factory installed speaker. I did upgrade the factory installed Tsunami decoder to a ESU Loksound decoder and used the factory speaker from Athearn. The sound file is one from ESU appropriate for a GP9. If I was to do the install again I would upgrade to the Scale Sound System speakers as I have several friends that highly recommend them after installing them on their locomotives. Even without the better speakers, the sound in person is acceptable to me. All of my locomotives have been upgraded to ESU Loksound decoders as that is my standard. If you have any more questions, please feel free to contact me at tklimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to answer them. -Tom
Thanks for another great video. How do you the figure, conductor, standing. On the car ,layout and engine so easily.
Hi Anthony, I use a product called "sticky tack", which is a clear waxy type materiel that is used to attach posters to a wall without damaging the wall or leaving a residue. I place a tiny amount on the conductors feet and then position the figure as needed. Occasionally I use a little bit on the figure's torso to hold him to the side of a car. The clear sticky tack is a little hard to find, but they have it in blue, yellow and white at most office supply stores.-Tom
Your layout is absolutely beautiful, and so detailed. Can you please tell me what company makes the chain link fence that you use on your layout. It is so detailed, just like the rest of your layout. I look forward to hearing back from you.
Hi, Thanks for your comments. The chain link fence around Dow and Capitol was scratch built using .020 wire and tulle (aka bridal vale). The fence frame was soldered together in large sections and the tulle was glued to the frame with CA. The fence was spray painted with an aluminum color paint. The "barbed wire" at the top of the fence is EZ line from Berkshire Junction. Alkem Scale Models does make a very nice etched metal chain link fence, but it would have been very expensive for the amount of fencing I needed. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me at tklimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to answer them. -Tom
Hey Tom, really enjoy your layout. I live nearby and am modeling the Gainesville Midland Subdivision. I'm curious what colors you've used for static grass, ballast, rails.
Hi Brandon, Sorry I have been slow to respond to your comment, I did not see it come in. If you can contact me at tklimoski@gmail.com I'll be glad to give you all the products that I use on my layout for scenery. Thanks for your comments and I look forward to hearing from you.-Tom
Thomas...enjoyed your video. You are the operations master. One question: which horn should the locomotive use when the consist is going forward even though the move is "backward" in terms of the locomotive's cab position? Thanks...Harold
Hi Harold, Thanks for your comments. I certainly am not a "master" when it comes to operations, but I have had a lot of great mentors who are professional railroaders that have passed their knowledge to me. Normally, a locomotive direction is determined by which end is specified as front, you'll see a small letter "F" on one end of the locomotive indicating front. As an example some GP9 ran long hood forward, while other railroads specified the short hood was forward. Instructions, horn signals, and commands are given based on the direction of the locomotive, not the way the cars are moving. It can get confusing when the movement is backing, but the locomotive is actually going forward. As I demonstrated in the video, the engineer gave three blasts for reverse (two blasts are for forward) when the crew was shoving into the siding. If the locomotive was pointed in the other direction and made the same move, the engineer would have given two blasts for moving forward even though the conductor sees it as a reverse move. I hope this information helps answer your question. If you have any more questions please don't hesitate to email me at tklimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to answer them. -Tom
@@ThomasKlimoski Thanks Tom. I get it now...Harold
very cool railroad.
Hi Tom, Great layout. I saw you on Yesturdays live chat Bill & John. Great interviews. Im looking forward to the next show. Youve packed a lot in to your layout. What are the Dimensions & shape? Cheers Grant ; )
Hi Grant, Great to hear from you. Thanks for tuning into the Small layout, big opportunities show on the Model Railroading Live channel. We'll show more of my layout in the next show. You can see more about my layout on my website at www.thomasklimoski.com where I have my track plan posted along with more information about my layout and operations. If you have any questions you can contact me at tklimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to answer them.- Tom
What a fantastic layout you have here! I love the detail of both the layout and the switching operations. Does ERB sill receive rail shipments? Thanks for sharing!
Hi, Thanks for your comments. As far as I know ERB still receives an occasional covered hopper of plastic pellets. I'll have to check with my GNRR sources to see if that has changed. Please check out my website at www.ThomasKlimoski.com for more information on my layout, switch lists, prototype photos, and blog.- Tom
@@ThomasKlimoski I appreciate it, and I will check out your website!
-John
Thomas Klimoski I am a fan of you're great videos and great artwork done by You to you're locomotives and track lay outs.
I sent You a message to you're Facebook account about your work especially the Georgia Northeastern lettering on you're locomotives.
Hi Christopher, Thanks for your comments on my layout and videos. I don't really use Facebook except to follow the GNRR Facebook group. Can you please send me the message at tklimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to respond. I look forward to hearing form you. -Tom
It seems very strange that, on hearing three horn blasts, I need to know (i) which way the locomotive is pointing and (ii) which end of it the railroad considers to be the front, before I know whether the train is going to come towards me or go away. Not disputing that this is what actually happens, but it's not a smart way of doing it.
Hi, Thanks for your comments. Yes you are correct, the crew needs to establish which end is "front" on the locomotive. On the prototype GNRR GP9 unit #7562 the long hood is identified as Front, my model has a small letter F on the frame of the long hood identifying it as such and the same as the prototype. When I worked as a Trainman on the Blue Ridge Scenic, the engineer always told me to give directions as to where I was on the ground as he should always know where I am for safety. Other railroads may identify a specific compass direction as "front", such as a westward movement in a yard is given as move ahead regardless of the actual control position for Forward or Reverse direction in the locomotive. All of this should be discussed in a safety meeting prior to any work being done as well as the hand signals, whistle signals, or radio communication being used. The engineer can sound the horn prior to movement to warn those around that the movement is beginning. Typically two blasts is forward, and three is for reverse. Even with all that, I occasionally give the wrong direction command for the locomotive to move. A good engineer will verify the direction of movement and question if it is correct prior to moving. Using a two person crew for an ops session I think just adds to the fun. I hope you are enjoying watching my videos. You can see more about my layout on my website at www.thomasklimoski.com Thanks for watching and commenting.- Tom
I’m looking forwards to doing the same sort of thing but with steam power, yipeee!
Hi Mark, Thanks for your comments. Railroad switching operations really have not changed that much over the years except for crew size and radios. I recently participated at an ops session where the three person crew (engineer, conductor, and brakeman) used hand signals to communicate. It was really fun and added a new twist to switching operations. -Tom
ThomasKlimoski I’m thinking of two man crews as a norm. I don’t know hand signals nor do I think do many others so I guess that is an era based issue. But I can cope with six cars five cars sort of radios traffic between driver and conductor in the absence of hand signal knowledge. Ether way it’s a big improvement in model railway operations in my view
Can you recall the manufacturer of those covered hoppers? I need some for my own layout
Good luck with that! Those things are hard to find, from any manufacturer.
Hi Kinzer, Sorry I could not answer your question during the live premier. Like Ryan Grider said below, they are hard to find. I was fortunate to find a couple at a train show and the one car was sold to me by a friend. The one car in the video is I believe a Walthers 64' National 6200, which is the one I bought from my friend (no original box). The other car is a Atlas ACF 5701 Plastic Pellet Covered Hopper car. You might be able to find them on E-Bay or a local train show. I did see that Atlas is releasing a ACF 5800 plastic pellet hopper car with pre-orders due by last January. You might still be able to pre-order a few. I do wish manufacturers had more options for the cars and had them in stock. Good luck on your search, I am always looking for a few more to add to my fleet. -Tom
@@ThomasKlimoski Thank you for the information, I've been trying to find some for quite a while now. You're very lucky. You'd think with the high demand that they would produce more plain white covered hoppers
Kinzer Hurt here’s hoping! I currently have 15, and even with a small switching layout I don’t really have as many as I want. Between a transload track, and a plastics manufacturer with rail service. I have only enough to cycle the cars off and immediately back on the layout. The good news is, plastic resin cars are often in captive service going to and from the supplier to the receiver, to avoid cross contamination, so my cycle isn’t totally unrealistic. Still, I’d love another dozen of so cars, preferably in ECUX or ACFC livery. Good luck with your search!
Kinzer Hurt I was just on Hobbylinc.com and Lee has some from Accurail listed in stock including 3 car packs
I always grin when I hear the handbrake sounds.
Hi Ed, You gotta love the sound of the handbrakes setting and releasing! You designed a excellent program and I really enjoy using it, especially for the videos when I am operating alone. Using your app really adds to the feeling of working the switch job just like the pros do. The other thing it does is to help slow down the operations as all of that "stuff" takes time, perfect for a small layout. I have told so many people about your app and everyone has given me great feedback on using it. Thanks again for developing it and allowing me to use it in my videos.-Tom
@@ThomasKlimoski That's why I did it! I'm really glad people are enjoying it.
Great..
Thanks for your comments.-Tom
Hear that 567
😊
I think we're related
Hi Joshua, there are not too many Klimoski's around so you are probably correct. If you would like to contact me and see if we are related that is fine with me. You can reach me through my website at www.thomasklimoski.com -Tom