Trains have fascinated me since childhood. I started my first HO scale train layout inthe 70s. It has been rebuilt many timesince and I’m about to start another. I’m looking forward to seeing how much thehobby has changed in 40+ years. Theother part of my infatuation with trains led to my buddies and I riding freighttrains as a recreational activity during college. Many crazy and strange things happened duringthese adventures in northern CA, OR and NV which I captured in a Smashwords ebook “The Trains We Rode”. I’llbe looking for ideas and techniques for scenery of all kinds. Based on what I’ve seen so far on your forum, I’ve got a lot to learn. Thanx
Welcome to TrainBoard! A lot has changed, yet some things have not. New stuff coming out all the time.
I can only imagine the adventures, just glad it all came out OK in the end! Definately many changes over the years, have fun exploring the new and try not to pine for what's gone too much.
Welcome to the Train Board. The past 40 years have seen remarkable changes. For instance electronics miniaturization has provided DCC systems that fit into N-Scale tenders. Motors have shrunk to become virtually unseen within boilers, but with more power and better speed control. Newly developed alloys have given us better track designs and rail conductivity. Lastly, manufacturing quality control has improved to the point where the naysayers must really search to find something to complain about. OK, so that last may be a stretch, but the advancements have made for more realistic models and layouts.
Right now I'm overwhelmed of where to start. DCC and blue tooth controlled locomotives are just the start. Looks like you are in the Springs. I was stationed at Peterson AFB for 21 years and retired 2 1/2 years ago. I still spend 6 months a year in Monument. You should check the chronicle of my freight train adventures at https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/487967. Enjoy
I've been working at Pete for the last 9 years, since turning in my Army green. Small world, huh? I'll be sure to look!
