I did everything the exact wrong way! I designed, built and wired like a total noob. I took up all of the first round of track and switches to lay new track and switches. If I could go back and do it all different, I would. I still have to wire up all the switches, but after 13.5 months of buying, building, laying, tearing out, relaying, wiring and what have you, I RAN A TRAIN!!!!
Replies sorted oldest to newest
Congrats!!!!! There is nothing like the feeling of accomplishment.
Looks like you are doing pretty good to me!! And running your first train is a real accomplishment in the process. It's a struggle to learn all this stuff and end up with something that you like and also works. No better way to learn than by doing (and re-doing). Keep up the good work!!
To me, layout building is a learning process. I also think that is why the more experienced folks here have built several layouts over the years in the hobby. They make improvements and learn from mistakes each time. I am still struggling with my first layout as you are, only I think you are doing a lot better than I am. I've been working on an expansion plan for at least a couple of years now and I don't think I am any closer to something acceptable than when I started. 
Nice !
Enjoy.
Congratulations, looking good. Chooch
Access to this requires an OGR Forum Supporting Membership
