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RE: Model train question

Mary,

I have a five year old son, who while not disabled is less than dexterous in handling the trains.  I found that he gets frustrated not having the dexterity to re-rail and couple HO guage cars, (although there are some aids for this).  As a consequence, we have O scale trains at least until he is a bit older.

However 4X8 is quite a small size for an O scale layout.  I would definitely suggest that you use 027 guage, which allows smaller turning radius.  Even with that, it would be difficult to get more than a loop or figure eight with a siding.

Before investing in any hardware, look around on the web for a sample layout which might fit your space.  I just did a quick search and only found two other persons asking the same question! No answers. If I find anything more useful, I will let you know.

Regards,

Mike Pauwels



-----Original Message-----
From: Steve Wise [mailto:swise@aoot.com]
Sent: Thursday, November 13, 2003 10:47 AM
To: ttat-members@aoot.com
Subject: Fw: Model train question


Anyone care to help Mary out?   Email her directly please at
mhquinn@mail.utexas.edu...


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Mary Helen Quinn" <mhquinn@mail.utexas.edu>
To: <ttat@aoot.com>
Sent: Wednesday, November 12, 2003 9:27 AM
Subject: Model train question


> Dear Model Train Enthusiast:
>
> My 46 year-old disabled son (mental retardation, epilepsy, cerebral
> palsy) is enchanted with trains.  For a Christmas present this year I
> want to install a 4' by 8' plywood sheet in his room as the basis of a
> model train set in his room.  I am at a loss, however at what gauge
> train to buy and how to design a layout?   I would like the layout to
> be complex enough to be interesting, but am afraid a really small
> gauge-train would be too difficult for him to manipulate.  Can you give
> me some advice?
>
> Mary Helen Quinn
> 7739 Kiva Drive
> Austin, TX 78749-2919
> (512) 892-7078
>
> mhquinn@mail.utexas.edu
>
> -----
> ttat@aoot.com
>

------
TTAT members reflector.