I decided to jump in since I don't want to travel without some kind of trains. So for a TravelTrailer Z seemed the logical scale to travel with. I'm looking to build a simple suitcase layout that I can lock up in the Truck and pull out for some fun when I'm stationary. ANy ideas look outs for the new guy; please feel free. I purchased a AZL GP38 with AZL Thrall Cars to start with. Not planning on adding to many more cars just track enough for a Suitcase 16" x 12". Don't know if I should go with MTL or some other company for the track? And what controller do I use? I presume it would also make for some nice entertainment along the long trips and give my GRandson's and I something to do while visiting that I can pass along. Thanks ahead of time for your assistance. I've modeled HO and N scale for years but never Z
Welcome to z. My choice is MTL flex track. It looks good and very easy to bend. Marklin track is hard to bend. I also use fastrack switches because it doesnt have ugly solonoid actuators, but MTL manual switches maybe easier to use on a portable layout. For controllers, there are couple choices, but I like the 9v battery ones. It will make it truly portable.
Yes I will go with manual Turnouts and no DCC. Just simple watch em go around and an occasional switching action. MTL seems easily available not sure yet what size Rad's will fit inside the Briefcase. But I'll get there sooner than later.:happy:And I sure will ask enough questions
Choose the widest radi that will fit in the suitcase. It will look more realistic and will let you wider choice of running stock. If you can, go with a 10' radius.
WIll do John the widest that will fit. Matter of fact I plan on taking the Suitcase with me to the LHS and see first hand since I don't know the measurements in metric.
What power Pack does everyone use? No DCC thanks just simple and reasonable please. This layout will remain inside of the suitcase and either in the back of my Pickup or in the Travel Trailer. SO it will be bounced around some and I'm going to keep it to simple scenery and foam the top so I can carry the Trains. That is my thought anyway. The travel part no that is going to be the rest is open to suggestions. Thanks beforehand for your tips.
You should look at these controllers.. they are basically the same except one is a built-in and the other is handheld. http://www.ztrackcenter.com/electronics/medvend-AN-1-C http://www.ztrackcenter.com/electronics/snail-1
Well I purchased a Suitcase from Amazon that is 16"x12" so I can take the Suitcase with me to the LHS and pick up my tracks. It should be here in about a week so then were off and traveling so to speak. I plan on a Desert scene with a couple of Mobile homes and Cactus with Palms and a few Ascaisa trees. Too bad I couldn't find any GP's in SP. I guess I will have to paint my own:happy:
GP's in SP are out there, you just have to serch many of the hobby shops out there. Unfortunately, I can't post any links unless one is an advertiser. For controllers any of the snail speed controllers will work well. Zthek, Ztrack, and Stonebridge's are all the same and very good. I think the Jorger Delux is the best, but it is no longer available in North America through any distributors that I know. You can order direct if you choose to go that route. I would stay away from the marklin white controllers, they have poor speed controll. Besides you want portability, so go with the battery type. As for track, Pretty much all of it is good if you lay it down correct. I think it is personal preference. I like MT flex, however, I also think the sectional track is fantastic. Sure you have to paint and ballast sectional track, but it isvery reliable and I like the turnouts. Z is addictive, don't be suprised if you get the bug bad.
I guess it was still available the site allowed me to order it. Thanks again I got the GP30 SP Sweet!
Yes, we have SP GP38-2s in stock. We are sold out of the first run of SP GP30s, but more are coming. We also have a few of the Cotton Belt GP30s special sets still in stock. Rob
Thanks that helped out controller and starter track. Might have a few extra tracks when all said and done but then what scale don't I have extra tracks..... LOL SWEET! Well all set now for the start of things. I have two GP Locos, four pieces of rollingstock, Speed controller that works by both AC/DC, a MTL Starter Track Pack, and the Briefcase. A couple of Turnouts for a SIdling some foam sheets bottle of "Weldbond" a Mechanical pencil and Exato Blade. Were off to a great start; thanks for the helps Fellas This is mainly for my Grandson's did I mention that......:teeth: Yeah Right! LMBO! I'm the Kid in the Candy Store at this point.:wink:
You could also try the 'If you break it, you buy it' technique. Take your wife with you to the hobby shop next time you are 'just looking' for your grandson. Then pretend to break something and say to your wife....'oh dear, I accidentally broke it....looks like I'll have to buy it now, oh darn' After all, I mean that is the only responsible thing to do, right?
It used to work for me Glen until my wife made me keep my hands in my pockets. She would tell me, "you can think about touching it, but don't do it" I now buy much fewer toys. )
I do know that she won't leave me alone anywhere there is a Hobby shop. And not worried about me cheating online but sure worries about my Hobby spending... LOL
