RE: Train Show

["Ira Schneider" <ira_schneider@iname.com>]

Mike,

Your level of participation at the shows is exactly what is expected of any member.  We have informally
said that a member should participate either in setup or teardown if he is going to be at a show.
There is no need to be a glutten for punishment (like I am) and be at the show from start to finish.

I certainly don't want to discourage you from doing more work on modules.  My feeling is that right
now we don't need any new modules.  However, I am sure there are many modules that should
be refurbished.  One thing that has been bothering me for a while is the severe-looking
s-curves on the ABCD-ABCE transition modules.  They are constructed with two sections
of O-72 track back to back.  After working on redesigning the switching yard modules I
found that a much gentler curve can be made by using a two small segments of curved track
(even O-120) with a section of straight track between them.  The other possibility is that there
are still many straight modules using multiple sections of 10" track which could be replaced
with single 38" sections.

The new corner modules were designed (?) to be used as inside curves.  On Sunday, we found
that one of these modules does have velcro on the inside.  Of course, we didn't notice this when
we set up the layout, and used this module as an outside corner.  Scott and I put velcro on the other
module, and the skirt now stays up correctly.  Also, the plexiglass is on the outside of the
curves to protect engines from falling off the modules if they jump off the curved tracks.  The
plexiglass is on the correct side of the corners.  If we ever decide to add plexiglass to all
modules to protect our trains from visitors, you would be correct that the plexiglass should be
added to the inside of the corners also.

The idea of a hinged bridge module has been batted around for several years.  There is probably
still some interest in it, even though several people (including myself) don't see the value in building it.
You can probably get some insight from the other club members.

Thank you and Hugh for participating in this show.  You are both assets to this club.


Ira