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Work on our Winston-Salem Southbound HO scale layout is complete. Now it’s time to try running it like the real thing! Once the paperwork is order, David Popp walks first-time operator Jenny Maaske through a typical switching sequence. Along the way, David explains the switching process and logic behind train moves so Jenny and MRVP viewers can get a better grasp of realistic model railroad operation!
Is there any chance that the templates for the paperwork could be made available for download??? A few different things were mentioned in this, and there previous video. The industry map, Car cards, waybills, and empty car slips/requests. I like the format of the ones you use, and would really like to use them myself, as I think many other modelers would also. If you don’t have them, is there someone I could get in touch with to try and find them? Kevin Orcutt
Nice! I really like these switching layouts as they are practical with regard to space and cost. Puts them within reach of the average hobbyist. Lots to do in a small space which keeps things interesting.
I don’t think the N & W boxcar was spotted exactly where it started which might upset the industry that it came from. Otherwise a nice job. I am modeling the WSSB in 1:29 scale using the expanded layout.
As a former brakeman you are doing a lot of unneeded work.. Why not switch each area or industry independently?
When I was a student brakeman on the PRR a old line conductor give me this advice: Son,plan your work and work your plan, never move cars you don’t need to or make unneeded moves and never get your cabin in front of your face.
A safety concern.. Never couple on to a car at a loading dock until you are sure nobody is inside or around the standing car.
As far as coupling on to a car then coupling on to the next you break several rules..
You must always make sure the knuckles are open, the coupler pin falls and of course there’s the need to release the handbrake.
Very late to this party, but I greatly enjoyed this. I’m planning a switching layout, and have read about how it works, but it was great to see it done. Well done David & Jenny!
always good to see an operating session.
First time Ive seen a drop off and pick up run. Great experience. Love the layout.
Great to see the active switching and train building on a complete modeled layout. Just like being there. Stimulating, inspiring session.
Great ops system if you don’t mind paperwork. I prefer to let a computer do some “legwork” by using a computerized switchlist system (Shipit!).
Just watched this video again and it was a helpful review. Looking forward to its coverage in the next issue of MR. Most crews have a game plan prior to switching an industry and this layout is a helpful training tool to making the fewest moves.
Really enjoyed this video
This is what inspired me to use switchlists! Great video, greater layout. Cheers! August Erb.
This has been a wonderful project, with great detail in advanced modeling and operation. It is especially meaningful to me as my grandfather was a brakeman on the Winston-Salem Southbound for nearly four decades. But I wish there was video of Ben Lake’s modeling of the WSS freight warehouse/office. The building still stands, listed in the National Register of Historic Places — http://www.hpo.ncdcr.gov/nr/FY1339.pdf. Were videos made of Ben’s work? If so, I wish you could add it!
Just got to watch this. I know, I’m late to the party. The Southbound must be one of the top project layouts done by MR. Really love this ops video. The working of a single “town” is also what I’m trying to capture in my railroad. The train simply comes into town and does it’s thing from the visible staging. Great small layout.
Why did you use both Switch lists and car cards & waybills car routing systems?
Finally got around to watching this video. Great teaching aid David as we’ve talked before I learn so much better by seeing/doing plus explaining ‘why’ you make certain moves when feasible. I know the goal is to make the least amount of moves while getting all the inbound cars spotted and assembling all the outbound cars to make up your departure train… all while not making your conductor walk an excessive distance from one car and switchstand to another. You’re smooth at the controls Jenny and did David sign off on your ‘train’ing records certifying you as a ‘fully’ qualified engineer? Well done!
Now, can we start guessing David’s first name?
Was David using a green Microbrush for uncoupling?
David, you are teaching your student by rote. Both of you should think out all the moves before starting. You make fewer moves that way.
Finally !! Seeing a short line (modular?) op session !! Amazingly interesting for a small layout with more challenge to it than what initially appears to be. Sorry if that is ended with a preposition !!
Great switching session. It was instructive for beginners.
Great session makes the layout and RR meaningful..
Before your train leaves town, make sure you do a proper air test. Ensure all your industry cars are properly secured and not fouling. When switching, check for switch locks, ramps, hoses, personnel or flagged tracks. If you have hazmat, make sure it is in the right position in your outbound train.
How did the new conductor and engineer do when switching the new set up?
Going to have to set up a system like this on my RR, may have to go back and watch it more for initial setups.
Thanks for the tips.
I am grateful for the mentoring of Jenny because it allowed me to put myself in that position and learn with her from David. Thanks. I have no group or mentors here so found this approach helpful and fun to see. Tom