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Model Train Beginner Seeks Advice
Marcel is just starting in the hobby and seeks advice from readers:
“Although slowly moving along, below is a picture of my “To be” Train table. It is a Ping Pong table with 3” high foam board. Also, I have a mountain kit. What I would like to ask is what should my next step be? I have a Bachmann Acela Speed Train that if possible will run the perimeter of the lay-out. Since the mountain has only one tunnel opening, I guess the Acela will utilize it. Do you know of any good ‘somewhat beginner’ resources? Any advice you can provide?”
SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION
my advice is to read, watch, discuss and learn. read as much as you can about the hobby, watch videos, discuss ideas with mates at your local train club, and be open to learn new stuff.
Marcel are plenty of resources out there including right here. The scenery book download on this blog is an excellent starting point. Good all round info for someone like you.
My advise to you Marcel is to hook up with your local railroad club in your area plan your railroad before you start, there are plenty of videos on you tube that will cover everything you will need to know plus downloads on here as well. Talk to others and gain from their knowledge as well and if you have any other questions there are plenty that can advise you right here. enjoy your railroad and the hobby.
Visit model railroad exhibitions for ideas and to see all the kinds of things that can be achieved.
A basic book on railroad modelling can be useful.
Consider what kind of railroad and environment you want to model – freight, industrial, mining, passenger, with hills, mountains, fields, coast, docklands, commercial / industrial area or city blocks ?
Plan everything in advance – draw several various possible ideas for your layout.
There are various programs available for track planning, inculding some freeware.