Originally Posted by ogaugeguy:
Bill, each time I view the video I am more astounded and in awe of your talent and that you created this in only a week's time. Completely mind-boggling!
I can tell by the add-on piping on the loco's boiler that you're using a conventional P.E. loco. Any spercial reason why that rather than one from the regular LionChief or 10th Anniversay LionChief sets?
You've mentioned the ascending and decending rails are electrically blocked from each other with separate power supplies. What tranformer(s) are you using? 2 cw-80's, z4000?
Also, how many total hours per day is this running and is that continuous running or with periodic breaks inbetween?
Is it set at a predetermined speed with the track power cycled on and off using a timer or is someone physically turning the train's transformer(s) on and off each day?
I also see you're using only the cars that came with the starter set. Any idea how many add-on cars could be utilized without unduly stresdsing the loco's motor and drive train?
BTW, love the separate loop of track at top. It "tops" of the tree perfectly! What diameter is that loop?
A tremendous holiday display showcasing the P.E. train set. Undoubtedly the children who see it must love it. Hopefully one of the local tv media outlets here will hear about it and show a clip of of this very special tree during one of their news broadcasts or possibly feature it during one their "morning show" broadcasts.
Once again, thank you all for the great comments, much appreciated.
ogaugeguy: I don't know, if I answer all your questions I might lose the suspense for the magazine article. LOL Though now after building and running I have noted a few revisions to incorporate into the plans that will be in OGR.
For this I am using two old Lionel 1033 transformers, though a couple CW80's would work fine. A CW80 does power the Candy Cane Commuter train at the top.
Good observation, it is the conventional P.E. loco. I used it so I didn't have to worry about dealing with the LionChief remote. Just turn on the transformers. Funny thing is though, the LionChief loco will not make it up the hill. It spins wheels at a few different places. I tried both the regular and the 10th Anniversary loco's. Not sure of the reason, seem about the same weight.
The display is open for just a few hours a day 3 days a week (thurs & fri 5:30 - 7:30 & sat 10:00 - 1:00) and I try to have myself or someone from the store or family there while running. I had it running for about an hour and a half non-stop yesterday. I prefer to run it about 15-20 then give it a 5 - 10 minute break depending on how many people are there at the time. I added a small CD player (boom box) within the base that plays the P.E. soundtrack.
I just turn off the transformer for going up during the break. It is turned all the way up when running. Going to install a box with a couple light switches mounted on it to turn things on and off. Debating on installing a timer system.
Yes, the three original cars are enough. Haven't tried a 4th car but considering the LionChief won't pull three figured I'd be pressing my luck, besides, easier on the loco. Besides, three is what is in the set and that is part of what we are promoting for our store.
The top loop is FasTrack O31.
It is fun watching people's reaction when they come to see it. I don't know, I think the adults I see staring at it for long periods of time are just as excited seeing it as the kids.
Thanks,
Bill
, or tutorial, or something. 
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