What follows is not a diatribe or rant, just some thoughts on a neat layout store addition.
As stated in another thread I bought a defective Red Owl store at a fair reduced price knowing the roof vents did not work nor the signage, so long as the lighting worked. To be fair, it was a display item in its protective case, operating continuously during store hours, probably having way more hours than would ever be possible on our layouts.
I examined the store and would suggest to Mark pass up the line to Menards powers that be, design the item that incorporates moving parts and electronics, so it can be somewhat dis assembled in case of repair. The building is well made but everything is glued, not a screw in sight (except to mount motor). For instance, the vents did not turn because the motor shaft to vents had broken. If I could get at shaft, I could slip some heat shrink over break and back in business.
Second point is the sign does not work which appears to be an EL type material and board similar to Miller Engineering, (though they did not make this item) signage. Unfortunately there is no way to remove driver board for repair without ALOT of serious surgery to gain access. Board(s) could be positioned so removing a screw or two would allow unplugging and removal if electronic savy person like me wanted to attempt repair, or buy/exchange new boards. And since I assume the electronics failed like it did in another Menards building I have (no board replacement available), perhaps the board designer might re-evaluate the design/parts and substitute beefier transistors, ICs or transformer to insure long operating life, or maybe a "universal board".
I realize that Menards is giving great value for really classy products that help us model challenged operators fill spaces, and fill rails with (for me) great rolling stock. So no criticism, just suggestions.
My two cents, as always your mileage varies.
