I've been working on a project to put a layout in a little country store out here in the boondocks. Basically, it's going to have about 70 feet of straight track with a 90 degree turn about 2/3 of the way through and reversing loops on each end. I'm building this in sections with the hope that I can sneak in there early some Sunday morning and install the thing - the owner of the place doesn't have any idea of what I'm planning. Should make for some interesting fun
The original layout will just run one train. I've been looking at the Dallee stuff and will buy one of their products what will allow someone to punch a button and the train will run for a few minutes then shut down. I'm planning on using a standard 80 watt Lionel transformer to run the thing. However, looking into the future, if this works out I plan on putting in a passing siding and running two trains - which is probably beyond the capability of the small transformer, especially if I run longer trains with multiple powered engines.
So here is my question: There's a possibility I may be able to get a used MTH 4000 for about $200 (don't know if that is a good buy or not) or pick up a Lionel 6-37947 for not much more. Both are probably overkill, but it's better to have a little bit too much available than not enough. As I understand the Dallee system, if I do run two trains, I don't need the capability to do that via the transformer - their product takes care of that - so the dual controls on the MTH may be redundant.
I sure would appreciate any input on this matter