WHAT'S THIS ABOUT A NATIONAL ORGANIZATION ?
People react fiercely to the concept of a national T⁴organization. Look dispassionately at other similar organizational concepts --- especially the very similar situation of national modeling groups like the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) which governs the field of model airplane hobbyists --- we find that those groups which have come together in a national alliance and a spirit of unity have been the most effective and functioned the best.
Every weekend, model plane hobbyists gather. They consist of several different operational factions --- radio control similar to military drones; free flight in which the models are launched by hand to travel freely in any flight pattern; U-control, in which a strong, fairly long cord is attached to the model airplane at one end and to a hand-held grip on the other; and in other events, including aerial combat and Giant Scale, with model planes with operating bomb-bay doors, working retractable landing gear, and variable speed propellers, none of which could have been remotely possible in the earliest stages of the hobby when we were first introduced to it 60 years ago. Even though much of the power and control of AMA has to do with the frequencies of the radio control spectrum --- a legitimate Federal concern --- it is surprising how AMA's interest extends into every facet of operation. The AMA's opinion and recommendations are even taken into account by the Federal Aviation Authority, whose legitimate concerns extend into safety issues at those altitudes where air space for model and full-size airplane conflict, even if only visually. ("Good Gosh, Godfrey, is that a B-17 at two o'clock?")
It is interesting to note that the public model airplane events with the largest attendance tend to be the Giant Scale programs. They are held all over the country and are a significant factor in the promotion of the hobby. Local newspapers reporting the events often pose modelers crouched next to their Giant Scale airplanes.
To provide another, even more compelling case, consider the analogous case of radio amateurs --- hams. Few interests are as individual-focused, as suited to participation by a lone wolf, as the ham radio operator sitting alone at home, seeking to establish communications via their expensive radio rigs to people all over the world. A truly international camaraderie becomes possible .
Arguably the best approach they took, early on in the development of their hobby, was to form the Amateur Radio Relay League, with well-developed regional, national, and international organizations and sponsored activities. The ARRL represents --- authoritatively and intelligently --- the interests and privileges of radio amateurs up to the very highest levels of the Federal government. Amateur radio has become one of the most active and well-recognized hobbies in the world. We should consider how much of that success can be attributed to a supportive organization, with a national publication. Picture the possibilities for a publication catering to mega-scale traction interests, illustrated with the many photographs now stored away in dusty archives, or discarded by the unsophisticated families or Executors of a deceased hobbyist.
Think about the copyright laws, not protective but restrictive, which forbid reproduction of these beautiful images, but prefer that they languish, unseen and unappreciated, in "archives".
I also see many superbly written and published publications which reach only a small fraction of possible readers. How satisfying it would be to carry a stack of NATIONAL TRACTION magazines in the trunk of your car, and hand them out to people we meet in the ordinary course of business or leisure activities.
We do --- arguably --- one of the worst jobs of letting people know about what we do. Photos of trolley meets, of trolley museum activities, of new developments in light rail (particularly in Europe and some of the enlightened cities of the United States) are rarely seen in newspapers or magazines .
I also like the Trolley Module concept. We attended a meeting of local government in Pennsylvania, that was called to decide on use and fate of an abandoned rail line. One of the presenters constructed a model of the line in question. Crusty farmers, officials of the church adjacent to the line, neighbors and housewives, spent almost a half-hour before the meeting was called to order, clustered around the portable module. They could see what the presenter was suggesting, and wound up approaching the presentation with an open and educated mind.
Right now, model traction is a fragmented, even splintered, hobby. The number of regional groups is considerable, and does not have a loud enough voice to bring attention to it.
If a national traction and light-rail organization were organized and run effectively, it might even raise national awareness of municipal light rail, which currently draws a blank stare from most Americans. The opposition to light rail is professional and well-organized, by groups with financial motives and personal gains to achieve .
These opposition groups organize "Transportation Institutes" ---some connected with respectable Universities and staffed by PhDs and Research Assistants --- that are assigned to do almost all the research work on proposed rail transit and its connected funding. They print articles on "Passenger waiting time in Bangladesh as a function of social class" and consistently deny the value of public transit, arguing that you cannot justify public transit without a large base of congested population to support it, basing their case on statistics and calculus.
They have apparently forgotten that the way that early traction pioneers promoted their streetcar lines was to deliberately choose a large vacant area, a long way out of town, and build a trolley line from the center of population out to the PLAYLAND or cemetery that they carefully situated on vacant land. Soon, houses sprang up along the line, obviously because it was so convenient for travel. Furthermore, it encourages substantial healthy growth of attractive neighborhoods.
Ask a Realtor ... one of the more frequently asked questions of professionals interested in relocating to a new city is, "How far is it to transportation to my job? How long does it take to get to (the city center? the beach? my new office? )
Saturday, June 30, 2012
BLOG NUMBER FIVE IN A SERIES
READY-TO-RUN MODELS
This next advantage might not take hold quickly, but it's something to consider, so hold your fire until you see the general reaction to this proposal and think it through . If we built automobiles like we build live steam locomotives or model trolleys, we'd probably still all be driving teams of horses !
Picture this Alternate History : The instruction book --- 650 pages of "Build Your Very Own auto-mobile" --- begins : "Order the castings for the frame" . The instructions would continue "Lay out the main frame according to Construction Drawing # 2063 " ; "Weld Part 104 to Part 675" ; and on, until you had your brand-new (?) automobile in front of you a few years later, one of maybe six in your entire home town . Some of them might even run. It might even save on road construction and maintenance .
Our proposal suggests building and selling ready-made models at the Traction Museum : assembly-line-built, buy-it-and-run-it the same incredibly exciting day -- picture finding a two-inch scale Peter Witt trolley under the Christmas tree.
Another probable advantage is that a Mega-Scale model streetcar's price would drop precipitously when small companies find that they can produce multiple models at assembly line costs, making it much more affordable by the average household, and spurring more people into the hobby .
Traction modellers would truly come into their own, complex and fascinating, to add still another challenge to this great aspect of the hobby . Maybe we could even eliminate the "Made in China" Syndrome and proudly place "Made in the U.S.A." on these products again.
TO BE LAUNCHED BY A NATIONAL (INTERNATIONAL?) MODEL TRACTION ORGANIZATION UTILIZING MAJOR MODERN MARKETING and PUBLIC RELATIONS EFFORTS
There is one last point that needs to be covered : This paradigm shift MUST be combined with a major, industry-wide, simultaneous marketing*** campaign extolling the virtues of this new approach to the hobby. It would provide extraordinary opportunities for family fun and hours spent together; for the acquisition of many new useful skills and historical knowledge by our youngsters; for the introduction of a new hobby and the rescue of an old one; an investment where everyone benefits . We contend that only a broad, professionally-designed marketing campaign can do the job well, and only a nationally-coordinated campaign can do the job in a professional manner.
*** MARKETING IS NOT ADVERTISING, or at least, not only advertising . Observations indicate that most small businesses are completely unaware of the distinction, and neither are most organizations aware of the possibilities, as they practice neither marketing nor advertising. Sadly, it shows !
IT'S BEEN DONE BEFORE ... AND BY RESPECTED MODELLERS
As an aside, Bruce Moffett, noted author from CERA territory, has built (and runs on batteries, I believe) a beautiful trolley model in a scale of 1:8, which he controls from a seating-car (is there a better phrase that I have missed in over 50 years in the hobby ?) coupled directly behind the traction motor; here's proof :
NO ! That's not the Moffat Tunnel behind him --- note the different spelling ! Besides, he's probably heard that at least one hundred times already .
SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE NEW SCALE AND GAUGE
We worked out the minimum radius requirement for a streetcar in the Mega-Scales . It would require a 10' radius for P Scale and a 15' radius in GH Scale to comply with prototype standards for civil engineering construction, to scale down the 60 foot minimum radius recommended by prototype transportation engineers . We can follow the lead of our British and Continental colleagues, and build "fiddle yards" and street scenes that are not locked into round-and-round track patterns.
WHAT NEW SCALES AND APPROACHES MIGHT LOOK LIKE
Here are some pictures in these ultra-scales to encourage the expansion of our vision in harmony with the ideas in this article .
The photo shows Mr. Parry, a serious British inventor, designer, and manufacturer set up at an industrial exhibition with a two-inch-to-the-foot (1:6) scale) Proof-of-Concept model to demonstrate the feasibility of his Light Rail vehicle. Parry People Movers, utilizes the inertial power of flywheels for the very short range station-to-station transit needs often found in rural England . (Image copyright not secured from Parry People Movers, UK ) .
Mr. Parry and his Parry's People Mover in P Scale (1:6), a light rail vehicle powered by an internal flywheel, which is set in motion at passenger stops by external plug-in electrical power, and whose inertial power moves the vehicle to the next passenger stop. Just the right size for 12 inch action figures and Barbie dolls as passengers.
These are photographs of an even more daring expansion in both concept and scale by Gordon Hatch, a trolley modeler from British Columbia who built a magnificent three-inch-to-the-foot (one-fourth scale) trolley layout in his backyard. We understand that the entire set-up was donated to a local museum in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada after Mr. Hatch's recent passing . (Photo was copied from the Internet with no commercial intent or benefit ; image copyright has not been secured from the family of the late builder despite best efforts, although they were published on the Internet) . Hoping that these photos stir the blood of previously-unmoved modelers .
OBJECTIONS FROM CRUSTY OLD-TIMERS
We anticipate a storm of protest at these suggestions . We wonder how Joshua Lionel Cowan's first efforts at Gauge Zero (O Scale) were received by cynical customers a hundred years ago ; probably something like "We already have all the possible gauges from #3 down to tiny #1; heck, we'd have to call that rascally peddler's trains "Zero gauge (0 gauge) ! " ... with raucous laughter in the background !
We have found, in over three-quarters of a century of looking at the world, that by a certain age most people have closed their minds about everything and then securely locked up the contents, no matter the facts or changes in circumstances . We just ask that, if that's happened to you, you open them just a bit to consider the possibilities and advantages . Meanwhile, we'll raise the drawbridge over the moat, slam shut the massive bolts on the main gates, and wait out the storm of live steamers and small-gage model traction buffs with pitchforks and torches . Just stop laughing as you watch the diminishing number of live steamers grow even smaller . Those who don't plan for the inevitable are doomed to deal with the inevitable .
This next advantage might not take hold quickly, but it's something to consider, so hold your fire until you see the general reaction to this proposal and think it through . If we built automobiles like we build live steam locomotives or model trolleys, we'd probably still all be driving teams of horses !
Picture this Alternate History : The instruction book --- 650 pages of "Build Your Very Own auto-mobile" --- begins : "Order the castings for the frame" . The instructions would continue "Lay out the main frame according to Construction Drawing # 2063 " ; "Weld Part 104 to Part 675" ; and on, until you had your brand-new (?) automobile in front of you a few years later, one of maybe six in your entire home town . Some of them might even run. It might even save on road construction and maintenance .
Our proposal suggests building and selling ready-made models at the Traction Museum : assembly-line-built, buy-it-and-run-it the same incredibly exciting day -- picture finding a two-inch scale Peter Witt trolley under the Christmas tree.
Another probable advantage is that a Mega-Scale model streetcar's price would drop precipitously when small companies find that they can produce multiple models at assembly line costs, making it much more affordable by the average household, and spurring more people into the hobby .
Traction modellers would truly come into their own, complex and fascinating, to add still another challenge to this great aspect of the hobby . Maybe we could even eliminate the "Made in China" Syndrome and proudly place "Made in the U.S.A." on these products again.
TO BE LAUNCHED BY A NATIONAL (INTERNATIONAL?) MODEL TRACTION ORGANIZATION UTILIZING MAJOR MODERN MARKETING and PUBLIC RELATIONS EFFORTS
There is one last point that needs to be covered : This paradigm shift MUST be combined with a major, industry-wide, simultaneous marketing*** campaign extolling the virtues of this new approach to the hobby. It would provide extraordinary opportunities for family fun and hours spent together; for the acquisition of many new useful skills and historical knowledge by our youngsters; for the introduction of a new hobby and the rescue of an old one; an investment where everyone benefits . We contend that only a broad, professionally-designed marketing campaign can do the job well, and only a nationally-coordinated campaign can do the job in a professional manner.
*** MARKETING IS NOT ADVERTISING, or at least, not only advertising . Observations indicate that most small businesses are completely unaware of the distinction, and neither are most organizations aware of the possibilities, as they practice neither marketing nor advertising. Sadly, it shows !
IT'S BEEN DONE BEFORE ... AND BY RESPECTED MODELLERS
As an aside, Bruce Moffett, noted author from CERA territory, has built (and runs on batteries, I believe) a beautiful trolley model in a scale of 1:8, which he controls from a seating-car (is there a better phrase that I have missed in over 50 years in the hobby ?) coupled directly behind the traction motor; here's proof :
NO ! That's not the Moffat Tunnel behind him --- note the different spelling ! Besides, he's probably heard that at least one hundred times already .
SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE NEW SCALE AND GAUGE
We worked out the minimum radius requirement for a streetcar in the Mega-Scales . It would require a 10' radius for P Scale and a 15' radius in GH Scale to comply with prototype standards for civil engineering construction, to scale down the 60 foot minimum radius recommended by prototype transportation engineers . We can follow the lead of our British and Continental colleagues, and build "fiddle yards" and street scenes that are not locked into round-and-round track patterns.
WHAT NEW SCALES AND APPROACHES MIGHT LOOK LIKE
Here are some pictures in these ultra-scales to encourage the expansion of our vision in harmony with the ideas in this article .
The photo shows Mr. Parry, a serious British inventor, designer, and manufacturer set up at an industrial exhibition with a two-inch-to-the-foot (1:6) scale) Proof-of-Concept model to demonstrate the feasibility of his Light Rail vehicle. Parry People Movers, utilizes the inertial power of flywheels for the very short range station-to-station transit needs often found in rural England . (Image copyright not secured from Parry People Movers, UK ) .
Mr. Parry and his Parry's People Mover in P Scale (1:6), a light rail vehicle powered by an internal flywheel, which is set in motion at passenger stops by external plug-in electrical power, and whose inertial power moves the vehicle to the next passenger stop. Just the right size for 12 inch action figures and Barbie dolls as passengers.
These are photographs of an even more daring expansion in both concept and scale by Gordon Hatch, a trolley modeler from British Columbia who built a magnificent three-inch-to-the-foot (one-fourth scale) trolley layout in his backyard. We understand that the entire set-up was donated to a local museum in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada after Mr. Hatch's recent passing . (Photo was copied from the Internet with no commercial intent or benefit ; image copyright has not been secured from the family of the late builder despite best efforts, although they were published on the Internet) . Hoping that these photos stir the blood of previously-unmoved modelers .
OBJECTIONS FROM CRUSTY OLD-TIMERS
We anticipate a storm of protest at these suggestions . We wonder how Joshua Lionel Cowan's first efforts at Gauge Zero (O Scale) were received by cynical customers a hundred years ago ; probably something like "We already have all the possible gauges from #3 down to tiny #1; heck, we'd have to call that rascally peddler's trains "Zero gauge (0 gauge) ! " ... with raucous laughter in the background !
We have found, in over three-quarters of a century of looking at the world, that by a certain age most people have closed their minds about everything and then securely locked up the contents, no matter the facts or changes in circumstances . We just ask that, if that's happened to you, you open them just a bit to consider the possibilities and advantages . Meanwhile, we'll raise the drawbridge over the moat, slam shut the massive bolts on the main gates, and wait out the storm of live steamers and small-gage model traction buffs with pitchforks and torches . Just stop laughing as you watch the diminishing number of live steamers grow even smaller . Those who don't plan for the inevitable are doomed to deal with the inevitable .
Friday, June 29, 2012
Blog number 4 in the series
CONSIDER THE ADVANTAGES
1. The Traction Museum can be developed into an authentic simulation of reality, using overhead catenary or trolley wire, OR deriving its power from concealed batteries, opening up an entirely new galaxy of prototypes .
2. It would minimize liability insurance issues, as the possibility of collisions or other injury to riders and spectators is effectively eliminated .
3. The public would be more likely to visit these Model Trolley Museums, now situated in more accessible locations ; visitor income would increase, providing more funding for operation and maintenance .
4. A museum, becomes a true teaching facility based on this principle, could stay open every day, not just weekends and not just occasionally as an Exhibition is, and become self-supporting . The technology of traction and the sad history of its breakdown and collapse could be taught painlessly to visitors, eliminating many questions from the vast majority of people who had never hear it before .
5. It would encourage the participation of youngsters who are familiar with the use of remote control systems similar to that employed in the radio control of airplanes, boats, and video games . The technology already exists, waiting to be adapted from those hobbies .
6. It could lead to the launching of hundreds of new small businesses --- a rare aspect of the financial picture which the Beltway Brains and the Wall Street Whizzes agree is the best basis for growing our economy .
This can mean
a. new jobs;
b. a return to local manufacturing;
c. a market for the many components and lineside scenery of electric railways ;
d. new possibilities in scenery;
e. a focus on complex track patterns --- special work, yard layouts and complex switching, instead of running aimlessly around and around in great endless loops
f. the production and sale of hundreds of accessories like, e.g., scale figurines of passengers, street figures, and railroad workers ; Main Street store fronts; trackside buildings; model automobiles; and the many other models that can be seen in the smaller gauges.
7. Displays would be at a good viewing height instead of on the ground; seeing railway equipment go by on eye-level tracks would be realistic and impressive, and more appreciated by spectators.
8. It would allow appreciation of details and construction
9. It would encourage the production, placement, display, and sale of accessories, buildings, miniature passengers and railroad employees, for sale and for display.
10 . A unique facility like this would be unusual enough to attract visitors and the income generated by tourism.
11. It would bring many new participants to the hobby, which currently is losing significant numbers of participants to age, disability, and the lack of machining and metalwork talent previously mentioned .
12. An entirely new sub-unit of the hobby could arise --- it can be thought of as truly Miniature Engineering --- a significant segment of which would be a new focus on bridges, tunnels, under- and over-passes, viaducts, etc., capable of carrying heavy (but not impossible) weights, as passenger-carrying miniature railways in trolley museums are expected to.
13. Cooperation with engineering colleges could be encouraged in the design-and-build aspect of miniature infrastructure. It is easy to picture a contest with respectably-sized prizes (meaningful and helpful to serious students at engineering schools) in various categories with local and national press coverage .
14. As bridges could now permit much smaller clearances, layout tunnels and bridges would no longer have to be designed to allow the passage of full-size engineers or motormen, and interesting new track plans could be designed .
15. In addition, interesting and complex arrangements of overhead wires (either or both catenary and trolley wires) for the propulsion of models of streetcars, electric locomotives, box cabs, trolleys, heavy electrics, third rail transit, and light rail, etc.) could develop into a special interest.
16. It could bring participation by trolley buffs, a population that arguably exceeds the current number of live steamers . Many fans of full-size traction, recruited from the many trolley museums, might dip their toes into the hobby of model traction as a sidebar to their prototype work in the trolley museums .
17. It would bring the excitement of a close-up view of model traction to children and adults alike
18. The Museum would consist of much more than merely running continuously in identical, never-ending circles. A yard layout or a trolley barn could be an interesting variation on a theme, allowing much more realistic operational variation. It would increase interest and encourage the design, construction, and very careful placement of large and complex trackside signal systems .
19. Model traction enthusiasts, who might resent bringing their models to annual club exhibitions, unloading them, and bringing them home again after the exhibit, might be willing to lend their models to legitimate, non-profit museums so that the public has a chance to share the trolley experience, provided that the exhibit is truly a loan --- much as the process of lending expensive, irreplaceable fine art to art museums has been established and recognized. Most people do not realize that, often, the greatest art museums do not own the paintings or sculptures that they display; many of these works of art are on extended loan from wealthy art patrons, who enjoy seeing their names prominently displayed in the exhibit halls, and who are, as a reward, invited to galas and exhibition openings, so that they are perceived as Patrons of the Arts. It would be rewarding if similar opportunities to be recognized were available to fine modelers.
1. The Traction Museum can be developed into an authentic simulation of reality, using overhead catenary or trolley wire, OR deriving its power from concealed batteries, opening up an entirely new galaxy of prototypes .
2. It would minimize liability insurance issues, as the possibility of collisions or other injury to riders and spectators is effectively eliminated .
3. The public would be more likely to visit these Model Trolley Museums, now situated in more accessible locations ; visitor income would increase, providing more funding for operation and maintenance .
4. A museum, becomes a true teaching facility based on this principle, could stay open every day, not just weekends and not just occasionally as an Exhibition is, and become self-supporting . The technology of traction and the sad history of its breakdown and collapse could be taught painlessly to visitors, eliminating many questions from the vast majority of people who had never hear it before .
5. It would encourage the participation of youngsters who are familiar with the use of remote control systems similar to that employed in the radio control of airplanes, boats, and video games . The technology already exists, waiting to be adapted from those hobbies .
6. It could lead to the launching of hundreds of new small businesses --- a rare aspect of the financial picture which the Beltway Brains and the Wall Street Whizzes agree is the best basis for growing our economy .
This can mean
a. new jobs;
b. a return to local manufacturing;
c. a market for the many components and lineside scenery of electric railways ;
d. new possibilities in scenery;
e. a focus on complex track patterns --- special work, yard layouts and complex switching, instead of running aimlessly around and around in great endless loops
f. the production and sale of hundreds of accessories like, e.g., scale figurines of passengers, street figures, and railroad workers ; Main Street store fronts; trackside buildings; model automobiles; and the many other models that can be seen in the smaller gauges.
7. Displays would be at a good viewing height instead of on the ground; seeing railway equipment go by on eye-level tracks would be realistic and impressive, and more appreciated by spectators.
8. It would allow appreciation of details and construction
9. It would encourage the production, placement, display, and sale of accessories, buildings, miniature passengers and railroad employees, for sale and for display.
10 . A unique facility like this would be unusual enough to attract visitors and the income generated by tourism.
11. It would bring many new participants to the hobby, which currently is losing significant numbers of participants to age, disability, and the lack of machining and metalwork talent previously mentioned .
12. An entirely new sub-unit of the hobby could arise --- it can be thought of as truly Miniature Engineering --- a significant segment of which would be a new focus on bridges, tunnels, under- and over-passes, viaducts, etc., capable of carrying heavy (but not impossible) weights, as passenger-carrying miniature railways in trolley museums are expected to.
13. Cooperation with engineering colleges could be encouraged in the design-and-build aspect of miniature infrastructure. It is easy to picture a contest with respectably-sized prizes (meaningful and helpful to serious students at engineering schools) in various categories with local and national press coverage .
14. As bridges could now permit much smaller clearances, layout tunnels and bridges would no longer have to be designed to allow the passage of full-size engineers or motormen, and interesting new track plans could be designed .
15. In addition, interesting and complex arrangements of overhead wires (either or both catenary and trolley wires) for the propulsion of models of streetcars, electric locomotives, box cabs, trolleys, heavy electrics, third rail transit, and light rail, etc.) could develop into a special interest.
16. It could bring participation by trolley buffs, a population that arguably exceeds the current number of live steamers . Many fans of full-size traction, recruited from the many trolley museums, might dip their toes into the hobby of model traction as a sidebar to their prototype work in the trolley museums .
17. It would bring the excitement of a close-up view of model traction to children and adults alike
18. The Museum would consist of much more than merely running continuously in identical, never-ending circles. A yard layout or a trolley barn could be an interesting variation on a theme, allowing much more realistic operational variation. It would increase interest and encourage the design, construction, and very careful placement of large and complex trackside signal systems .
19. Model traction enthusiasts, who might resent bringing their models to annual club exhibitions, unloading them, and bringing them home again after the exhibit, might be willing to lend their models to legitimate, non-profit museums so that the public has a chance to share the trolley experience, provided that the exhibit is truly a loan --- much as the process of lending expensive, irreplaceable fine art to art museums has been established and recognized. Most people do not realize that, often, the greatest art museums do not own the paintings or sculptures that they display; many of these works of art are on extended loan from wealthy art patrons, who enjoy seeing their names prominently displayed in the exhibit halls, and who are, as a reward, invited to galas and exhibition openings, so that they are perceived as Patrons of the Arts. It would be rewarding if similar opportunities to be recognized were available to fine modelers.
Blog number three in the series
A NEW PARADIGM FOR AN OLD HOBBY : THE SCALES
TAG-LINE : Where is it Written in the Sacred Books that the Only Acceptable Model Traction Scales are N, H0, 0, and G ???
WARNING: The following section of this Proposal contains material that may be considered controversial, and may upset or anger some readers, while others may find it offensive. Reader discretion is advised. An open mind is always welcome .
WATCH 'EM, DON'T RIDE 'EM
In contrast to electric traction, the operator of a model live steam locomotive has to ride aboard, generally for some of the same reasons as engineers of full-size locomotives :
It was necessary to keep an eye on the water gage, to make sure that adequate feed water was being supplied to the boiler. In running live steam locomotives, the conventional approach has been to run the engine around and around some continuous circuit, replicating the classic early toy trains circling the Christmas tree. Continuous circuits mean keeping an eye out for objects and people on the tracks, much as in real life, and requires a very large area on which to build the trackage.
As the hobby evolved, a large part of the activity consisted of giving rides to visitors --- adults and children --- on rail cars specifically designed to accommodate riders. These riding cars detract from the realism of the train, so that keeping to scale was not considered of critical importance, as the illusion was already destroyed by the scene of a giant's backside perched on the tender (or thereabouts).
In earlier times, the electronic technology required for the mechanisms that control speed, direction, engine sounds, bell and whistle blasts, and so on had not yet reached the degree of sophistication that it has today. Therefore, hands-on control by an onboard engineer was necessary. Building and running trolley, traction, tram, and streetcar models would mean straddling the roof and destroying the trolley poles or pantographs (or else riding on a following, coupled-on, riding car, complete with seat cushion).
VIEWER EXPECTATIONS
Seeing a giant human being (the engineer) astride a tiny tender, with his knees tucked underneath his chin, destroys the illusion for many of us. We are reminded of circus clowns who try to be humorous by posing as a large adult perched precariously on a tiny child's tricycle, trying to balance himself and pedal the cycle at the same time. The visual analogy is almost inescapable.
The use of models --- electrically-powered, unmanned, remote-controlled motive power --- of our prototypes eliminates most, if not all, of these objections .
Electronic control systems are now very highly developed, so much so that much of the war in the Middle East was coonducted using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles ---drones --- operated by personnel hundreds, even thousands, of miles away. We envision realistic dioramas, the model equivalent of a stage setting, allowing full scope to the imagination and skills of builders, bringing many different craftsmen to the hobby, for overall realism .
NEW SCALE POSSIBILITIES and THEIR ADVANTAGES
This Paper suggests avoiding the pitfalls and expenses of full-size, restorations of trolleys by introducing realistic electrically-powered giant scale models. Build layouts in a scale of 2 inches = one foot (1:6) [DisPlayScale] or 3 inches = one foot (1:4) [GH Scale] to be displayed at about chest-level , powering our T-to-the-Fourth-Power remotely controlled models by electricity --- truly Remotely Operated Vehicles --- much as the smaller gauges are, with all the many possibilities that this scenario suggests to the imagination.
Setting the base of the benchwork at chest level raises the entire layout high enough so that the eye level of the spectator is set at the eye level of the miniature inhabitants of the landscape, producing an unmatched equality of viewscape between visitor and model, enormous enhancing reality .
TAG-LINE : Where is it Written in the Sacred Books that the Only Acceptable Model Traction Scales are N, H0, 0, and G ???
WARNING: The following section of this Proposal contains material that may be considered controversial, and may upset or anger some readers, while others may find it offensive. Reader discretion is advised. An open mind is always welcome .
WATCH 'EM, DON'T RIDE 'EM
In contrast to electric traction, the operator of a model live steam locomotive has to ride aboard, generally for some of the same reasons as engineers of full-size locomotives :
It was necessary to keep an eye on the water gage, to make sure that adequate feed water was being supplied to the boiler. In running live steam locomotives, the conventional approach has been to run the engine around and around some continuous circuit, replicating the classic early toy trains circling the Christmas tree. Continuous circuits mean keeping an eye out for objects and people on the tracks, much as in real life, and requires a very large area on which to build the trackage.
As the hobby evolved, a large part of the activity consisted of giving rides to visitors --- adults and children --- on rail cars specifically designed to accommodate riders. These riding cars detract from the realism of the train, so that keeping to scale was not considered of critical importance, as the illusion was already destroyed by the scene of a giant's backside perched on the tender (or thereabouts).
In earlier times, the electronic technology required for the mechanisms that control speed, direction, engine sounds, bell and whistle blasts, and so on had not yet reached the degree of sophistication that it has today. Therefore, hands-on control by an onboard engineer was necessary. Building and running trolley, traction, tram, and streetcar models would mean straddling the roof and destroying the trolley poles or pantographs (or else riding on a following, coupled-on, riding car, complete with seat cushion).
VIEWER EXPECTATIONS
Seeing a giant human being (the engineer) astride a tiny tender, with his knees tucked underneath his chin, destroys the illusion for many of us. We are reminded of circus clowns who try to be humorous by posing as a large adult perched precariously on a tiny child's tricycle, trying to balance himself and pedal the cycle at the same time. The visual analogy is almost inescapable.
The use of models --- electrically-powered, unmanned, remote-controlled motive power --- of our prototypes eliminates most, if not all, of these objections .
Electronic control systems are now very highly developed, so much so that much of the war in the Middle East was coonducted using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles ---drones --- operated by personnel hundreds, even thousands, of miles away. We envision realistic dioramas, the model equivalent of a stage setting, allowing full scope to the imagination and skills of builders, bringing many different craftsmen to the hobby, for overall realism .
NEW SCALE POSSIBILITIES and THEIR ADVANTAGES
This Paper suggests avoiding the pitfalls and expenses of full-size, restorations of trolleys by introducing realistic electrically-powered giant scale models. Build layouts in a scale of 2 inches = one foot (1:6) [DisPlayScale] or 3 inches = one foot (1:4) [GH Scale] to be displayed at about chest-level , powering our T-to-the-Fourth-Power remotely controlled models by electricity --- truly Remotely Operated Vehicles --- much as the smaller gauges are, with all the many possibilities that this scenario suggests to the imagination.
Setting the base of the benchwork at chest level raises the entire layout high enough so that the eye level of the spectator is set at the eye level of the miniature inhabitants of the landscape, producing an unmatched equality of viewscape between visitor and model, enormous enhancing reality .
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Blog number TWO in the series
What is the answer ? ... or rather, what is a solution? Follow the course set by maritime museums, which often have to become satisfied with --- and flourish with --- model ships !
Arguably the largest percentage of trolley museums provide a passenger ride for several miles on hard-to-maintain track laid on difficult-to-come-by land. It occurred to us that many of the huge "Big-Box" stores, industrial sites, and supermarkets are going belly-up in this economy, leaving enormous empty spaces that, in our own experience lie vacant for --- in many cases ---years. They could be turned to good and interesting use.
Dictum One : Don't Ride 'em, watch 'em
Take into consideration the tremendous impact that size has, and how it can convert our model thinking . Here's GH Scale, named for the late Gordon Hatch of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Picture these one-quarter-full-size models that can run both outdoors and indoors because they are safely powered by electricity, like any model railway equipment . With one stroke, costs have been reduced to manageable proportions.
Dictum Two : Size Matters
Suddenly, the concept of a museum like this becomes readily manageable.
1. Youngsters, eager for new experiences and without the funds or physical strength of adults, can become viable candidates for both membership and internship as working members;
2. retired adults are an enormous untapped resource. One Florida retirement community alone --- No ! not a nursing home, not a managed care facility --- may have over 2,000 residents, both working and retired. They can participate or volunteer; the operating budget no longer matches that of the Pentagon ; and retired workers often carry with them the very skills and work ethic required for restoration, light construction, and old-new ideas.
3. the scope of both display and operation is within everyone's capability.
4. Convenient location of, and access to, many of these vacant properties translate into many more visitors and easier access by volunteers and staff.
5. The cost of exhibits and trolley barns drops dramatically.
6. Non-availability of replacement parts is much less of an issue.
7. A modest machine shop can serve dual purposes : it can be used to manufacture metal and wood parts on site for its own use and for sale to the public, Made in the U.S.A., they can be used as a basis for training youngsters in the use of serious machine tools under adult supervision.
8. Some of these might even become adjuncts of school systems that are strapped for money and that (coincidentally) are not building a knowledgeable labor base for the future of manufacturing in America (North and South).
9. In that last regard, a recent survey indicated that a large majority of our youth don't even know which way to (ready for this one?) turn a screwdriver ! Now, there's a selling point for a private education initiative ! Our education systems (of which we ourselves have been members for many years) always lag many years behind our country's needs, and fail to provide adequate career guidance to both students and workers alike.
It doesn't take much to start a traction museum along the lines suggested above, one that would match the best of the maritime museums. It does take good sense, initiative, and will.
Arguably the largest percentage of trolley museums provide a passenger ride for several miles on hard-to-maintain track laid on difficult-to-come-by land. It occurred to us that many of the huge "Big-Box" stores, industrial sites, and supermarkets are going belly-up in this economy, leaving enormous empty spaces that, in our own experience lie vacant for --- in many cases ---years. They could be turned to good and interesting use.
Dictum One : Don't Ride 'em, watch 'em
Take into consideration the tremendous impact that size has, and how it can convert our model thinking . Here's GH Scale, named for the late Gordon Hatch of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Picture these one-quarter-full-size models that can run both outdoors and indoors because they are safely powered by electricity, like any model railway equipment . With one stroke, costs have been reduced to manageable proportions.
Dictum Two : Size Matters
Suddenly, the concept of a museum like this becomes readily manageable.
1. Youngsters, eager for new experiences and without the funds or physical strength of adults, can become viable candidates for both membership and internship as working members;
2. retired adults are an enormous untapped resource. One Florida retirement community alone --- No ! not a nursing home, not a managed care facility --- may have over 2,000 residents, both working and retired. They can participate or volunteer; the operating budget no longer matches that of the Pentagon ; and retired workers often carry with them the very skills and work ethic required for restoration, light construction, and old-new ideas.
3. the scope of both display and operation is within everyone's capability.
4. Convenient location of, and access to, many of these vacant properties translate into many more visitors and easier access by volunteers and staff.
5. The cost of exhibits and trolley barns drops dramatically.
6. Non-availability of replacement parts is much less of an issue.
7. A modest machine shop can serve dual purposes : it can be used to manufacture metal and wood parts on site for its own use and for sale to the public, Made in the U.S.A., they can be used as a basis for training youngsters in the use of serious machine tools under adult supervision.
8. Some of these might even become adjuncts of school systems that are strapped for money and that (coincidentally) are not building a knowledgeable labor base for the future of manufacturing in America (North and South).
9. In that last regard, a recent survey indicated that a large majority of our youth don't even know which way to (ready for this one?) turn a screwdriver ! Now, there's a selling point for a private education initiative ! Our education systems (of which we ourselves have been members for many years) always lag many years behind our country's needs, and fail to provide adequate career guidance to both students and workers alike.
It doesn't take much to start a traction museum along the lines suggested above, one that would match the best of the maritime museums. It does take good sense, initiative, and will.
NATIONAL TRACTION : A PUBLICATION OF THE ELECTRIC RAILWAYS NETWORK, VOLUME ONE, 28 June 2012
T⁴ MUSEUMS : A RADICAL NEW APPROACH TO TRACTION MODELLING AND TROLLEY MUSEUMS
WHAT ?
First, probably many of you are wondering what T⁴(T-to-the-Fourth-Power) means. It's our abbreviation for the four T's :
Trolleys (in North America : streetcars, not shopping carts)
Trams (essentially, European, Australian, and Asian trolleys, streetcars, and light rail)
Traction (the old professional name for rail equipment powered by electric traction motors, such as trolleys and box cabs), and
Transit (Light Rail, the New York subways, the Chicago El, the London Tube, the Paris Metro, interurban electric railways, etc.).
WHY ?
Second, why an organization of this stuff? We already have model trolley groups, trolley museums; the famous Tich tram museum in the U.K. (England) ; the many fine local trolley museums in the United States, and many others. Do we really need to organize more ? ... and why now ?
BECAUSE :
Questions with easy answers, once you consider the broad perspectives of Time and Space Available .
1. Our North American trolley museums are delightful, nostalgic collections of antique and vintage traction equipment. BUT, they need very large budgets which will undoubtedly increase with time and inflation, large amounts of decreasingly-available space, and many volunteers, who are much more concerned these days with finding money in the budget for food and shelter than with repairing old rail equipment.
2. Equipment maintenance is a difficult labor-intensive task , requiring large financial expenditures, time, shelter for the equipment, machine shops, as well as highly specialized fittings and replacement parts.
3. Volunteers --- for any optional activity --- are becoming less and less available because of economic times, an older labor force that needs to spend its time in more financially rewarding ways, the increasing lack of knowledge about "streetcars", how they work, and the mission, ethic, and function of museums, [we know; we've been there].
4. The ride provided to visitors is overshadowed -- in many visitors' minds -- by the ubiquitous thrill-based "rides" available at theme parks and amusement parks. One might call it "The How-Fast-Can-It-Go Syndrome" .
5. Grant money, local government appropriations, and private donations are becoming increasingly difficult to obtain.
6. Much information regarding traction, and appreciation for its historic role, is fading from the public consciousness.
7. This entire Tractatus was, and in a sense, still is, primarily addressed to TROLLEY MODELERS, the forgotten Majority.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EDITORS' NOTES and COMMENTS : A BOLD NEW IDEA
Faithful readers may find some of this repetitive of some of the material previousy written. Still, this beats sending Thoughts and Ponderings to an entire mailing list, given the escalating costs of sending anything anywhere these days.
If you think it's really worthwhile, send five dollars (much of which goes to the US Postal Service) and the recipients' names and addresses for every recipient you deem worthy (head of a model traction group, of a trolley museum, of a transit advocacy group, Publisher of a trolley publication, Editor of a museum newsletter, or even just a Trolley Buddy), and I'll send him/her/it/them a copy of all 26 pages. NOT COPYRIGHT, SUITABLE FOR REPRODUCTION AND FRAMING, ON RECYCLABLE PAPER, MADE IN THE U.S.A.
Any time you want, you can change your mind and ask to be demitted from any and all mailing lists, and keep the material you already have .
Fair enough ????
WHAT ?
First, probably many of you are wondering what T⁴(T-to-the-Fourth-Power) means. It's our abbreviation for the four T's :
Trolleys (in North America : streetcars, not shopping carts)
Trams (essentially, European, Australian, and Asian trolleys, streetcars, and light rail)
Traction (the old professional name for rail equipment powered by electric traction motors, such as trolleys and box cabs), and
Transit (Light Rail, the New York subways, the Chicago El, the London Tube, the Paris Metro, interurban electric railways, etc.).
WHY ?
Second, why an organization of this stuff? We already have model trolley groups, trolley museums; the famous Tich tram museum in the U.K. (England) ; the many fine local trolley museums in the United States, and many others. Do we really need to organize more ? ... and why now ?
BECAUSE :
Questions with easy answers, once you consider the broad perspectives of Time and Space Available .
1. Our North American trolley museums are delightful, nostalgic collections of antique and vintage traction equipment. BUT, they need very large budgets which will undoubtedly increase with time and inflation, large amounts of decreasingly-available space, and many volunteers, who are much more concerned these days with finding money in the budget for food and shelter than with repairing old rail equipment.
2. Equipment maintenance is a difficult labor-intensive task , requiring large financial expenditures, time, shelter for the equipment, machine shops, as well as highly specialized fittings and replacement parts.
3. Volunteers --- for any optional activity --- are becoming less and less available because of economic times, an older labor force that needs to spend its time in more financially rewarding ways, the increasing lack of knowledge about "streetcars", how they work, and the mission, ethic, and function of museums, [we know; we've been there].
4. The ride provided to visitors is overshadowed -- in many visitors' minds -- by the ubiquitous thrill-based "rides" available at theme parks and amusement parks. One might call it "The How-Fast-Can-It-Go Syndrome" .
5. Grant money, local government appropriations, and private donations are becoming increasingly difficult to obtain.
6. Much information regarding traction, and appreciation for its historic role, is fading from the public consciousness.
7. This entire Tractatus was, and in a sense, still is, primarily addressed to TROLLEY MODELERS, the forgotten Majority.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EDITORS' NOTES and COMMENTS : A BOLD NEW IDEA
Faithful readers may find some of this repetitive of some of the material previousy written. Still, this beats sending Thoughts and Ponderings to an entire mailing list, given the escalating costs of sending anything anywhere these days.
If you think it's really worthwhile, send five dollars (much of which goes to the US Postal Service) and the recipients' names and addresses for every recipient you deem worthy (head of a model traction group, of a trolley museum, of a transit advocacy group, Publisher of a trolley publication, Editor of a museum newsletter, or even just a Trolley Buddy), and I'll send him/her/it/them a copy of all 26 pages. NOT COPYRIGHT, SUITABLE FOR REPRODUCTION AND FRAMING, ON RECYCLABLE PAPER, MADE IN THE U.S.A.
Any time you want, you can change your mind and ask to be demitted from any and all mailing lists, and keep the material you already have .
Fair enough ????
Sunday, June 24, 2012
F GAGE TROLLEY, ALL BRASS
One of my correspondents sent us a most pleasant set of comments, for which I thank him here, publicly, and --- in addition, sent along a clear, detailed photo of a model trolley, brass, in F Gage, that he purchased. With his implied consent, I'm publishing the picture, below.
If anyone has any information as to the original source, the prototype, manufacturer, or any other useful data, please send it to me at HNILS@MSN.COM, and I'll be pleased to pass along the word to the proud new owner.
For those of you --- and there are probably quite a few --- who may not have encountered F Scale / F Gage in their previous surfing, I am appending to this Blog some details on this burgeoning gage , as carefully crafted by one of its founders, Iron Creek Shops, which would be delighted to hear from you :
Almost all garden railways in North America operate on #1 gauge track (45mm between the rails.) Many different prototypes and scales are found among these "large scale" trains; but nearly all of them share one thing in common: they operate on #1 gauge track.
Scale and gauge are actually two very different concepts. Scale refers to the proportional relationship between a given model and the prototype it is supposed to represent. Gauge, on the other hand, refers to the distance between the two rails upon which our model trains operate.
One Gauge - Many Scales - Much Confusion
Ideally model trains built to a particular scale should also run on a model track gauge proportional to that of the prototype. Historically, as garden railroading has evolved, this has not been the case. Concern for scale has generally taken a back seat to the expediency of one almost universal track gauge - 45mm - and the result has been a cacophony of scales, mismatched models, and confusion, all trundling down the same track under the vague heading of "G-scale". On many garden railroads, one can find models of American standard gauge trains (4'-8 1/2") operating right alongside (3') narrow gauge, European meter gauge, and even Maine 2' gauge trains - all on the same track. As many as six different scales (1:32, 1:29, 1:24, 1:22.5, 1:20.32, and 1:13.7) now populate the large scale scene!
The F-Scale Solution
Unlike the smaller model railroading scales, where each major scale has its standard gauge as well as narrow gauge counterparts ( for example: O, On3, On30; or H0, and H0n3), each scale making use of several different, proportional track gauges, large scale has not had this option - until now.
The 1:20.32 Scale Revolution is ON
Probably the majority of large scale railroading is devoted to modeling such classic 3' narrow gauge lines as the Denver and Rio Grande Western, Rio Grand Southern, ET&WNC (Tweetsie), and others. These lines have each been modeled in several scales for operation on #1 Gauge track; however, 1:20.32 scale (what the NMRA has now finally recognized as "F-scale"), most accurately represents 3' narrow gauge prototypes operating on 45mm gauge track. Over the past few years, most of the smaller manufacturers, brass importers, and Bachmann have committed themselves to this scale and hence to accurate 3' narrow gauge modeling.
Standard Gauge Modeling in F-Scale
Of course, accurate narrow gauge models are best complemented by accurate standard gauge ones. F-scale solves the garden railway scale and gauge dilemma by creating a new track gauge of 70.64mm (2.781") Now both narrow and standard gauge trains can be accurately modeled together in the same scale.
F Gauge and Fn3
To use the nomenclature of the small scales, F Gauge (70.64mm) accurately represents 4'-8.5" standard gauge trains in F Scale (1:20.32), whereas Fn3 (45mm gauge) accurately represents 3 foot narrow gauge trains in F Scale.
To arrive at any actual model dimension in F Scale from a prototype dimension, simply divide the prototype dimension by 20.32. Or if you prefer to work in the metric system, in F Scale 15mm = 1 foot. F, then, is just a shorthand for 15mm scale. It's that simple.
©2009 Iron Creek Shops™
I know that this material is copyright by IRON CREEK SHOPS, but I believe (and pray) that publishing this information right from the source will help a significant number of modelers obtain the correct story and, if you are really interested in pursuing this further, the owners of this Intellectual Property right wouldn't mind if you Googled "Iron Creek Shops" and went right to their web site, which has detailed track drawings and dimensions. IRON CREEK SHOPS is precisely one of the small manufacturers to which I refer in my previous blogs. It's worth a visit !
Hal Pelta HNILS@MSN.COM
If anyone has any information as to the original source, the prototype, manufacturer, or any other useful data, please send it to me at HNILS@MSN.COM, and I'll be pleased to pass along the word to the proud new owner.
For those of you --- and there are probably quite a few --- who may not have encountered F Scale / F Gage in their previous surfing, I am appending to this Blog some details on this burgeoning gage , as carefully crafted by one of its founders, Iron Creek Shops, which would be delighted to hear from you :
What is F-Scale ?
Almost all garden railways in North America operate on #1 gauge track (45mm between the rails.) Many different prototypes and scales are found among these "large scale" trains; but nearly all of them share one thing in common: they operate on #1 gauge track.
Scale and gauge are actually two very different concepts. Scale refers to the proportional relationship between a given model and the prototype it is supposed to represent. Gauge, on the other hand, refers to the distance between the two rails upon which our model trains operate.
One Gauge - Many Scales - Much Confusion
Ideally model trains built to a particular scale should also run on a model track gauge proportional to that of the prototype. Historically, as garden railroading has evolved, this has not been the case. Concern for scale has generally taken a back seat to the expediency of one almost universal track gauge - 45mm - and the result has been a cacophony of scales, mismatched models, and confusion, all trundling down the same track under the vague heading of "G-scale". On many garden railroads, one can find models of American standard gauge trains (4'-8 1/2") operating right alongside (3') narrow gauge, European meter gauge, and even Maine 2' gauge trains - all on the same track. As many as six different scales (1:32, 1:29, 1:24, 1:22.5, 1:20.32, and 1:13.7) now populate the large scale scene!
The F-Scale Solution
Unlike the smaller model railroading scales, where each major scale has its standard gauge as well as narrow gauge counterparts ( for example: O, On3, On30; or H0, and H0n3), each scale making use of several different, proportional track gauges, large scale has not had this option - until now.
The 1:20.32 Scale Revolution is ON
Probably the majority of large scale railroading is devoted to modeling such classic 3' narrow gauge lines as the Denver and Rio Grande Western, Rio Grand Southern, ET&WNC (Tweetsie), and others. These lines have each been modeled in several scales for operation on #1 Gauge track; however, 1:20.32 scale (what the NMRA has now finally recognized as "F-scale"), most accurately represents 3' narrow gauge prototypes operating on 45mm gauge track. Over the past few years, most of the smaller manufacturers, brass importers, and Bachmann have committed themselves to this scale and hence to accurate 3' narrow gauge modeling.
Standard Gauge Modeling in F-Scale
Of course, accurate narrow gauge models are best complemented by accurate standard gauge ones. F-scale solves the garden railway scale and gauge dilemma by creating a new track gauge of 70.64mm (2.781") Now both narrow and standard gauge trains can be accurately modeled together in the same scale.
F Gauge and Fn3
To use the nomenclature of the small scales, F Gauge (70.64mm) accurately represents 4'-8.5" standard gauge trains in F Scale (1:20.32), whereas Fn3 (45mm gauge) accurately represents 3 foot narrow gauge trains in F Scale.
To arrive at any actual model dimension in F Scale from a prototype dimension, simply divide the prototype dimension by 20.32. Or if you prefer to work in the metric system, in F Scale 15mm = 1 foot. F, then, is just a shorthand for 15mm scale. It's that simple.
©2009 Iron Creek Shops™
I know that this material is copyright by IRON CREEK SHOPS, but I believe (and pray) that publishing this information right from the source will help a significant number of modelers obtain the correct story and, if you are really interested in pursuing this further, the owners of this Intellectual Property right wouldn't mind if you Googled "Iron Creek Shops" and went right to their web site, which has detailed track drawings and dimensions. IRON CREEK SHOPS is precisely one of the small manufacturers to which I refer in my previous blogs. It's worth a visit !
Hal Pelta HNILS@MSN.COM
Monday, June 18, 2012
MEGA-SCALE TRACTION TRUCK AS DISPLAY PIECE
MEGA-SCALE TRACTION-TRANSIT-TROLLEY-TRAM TRUCKS : AN ATTRACTIVE AND VERSATILE DISPLAY PIECE
Many years ago, we purchased from an advertisement in a model magazine, an easy-to-put-together model of an arch bar truck, in shiny brass finish, mounted on two short lengths of track which I carefully hand-spiked to the ties that were included. I don't recall any mention of a gage, but I just miked it and track gage comes out to 2.125 inches (the old Lionel Standard Gage). When assembled, it was fully sprung and, at my tender age, it was enough to keep me gleefully hand-testing the springing over and over again.
I don't recall who the manufacturer was, but the product was, in the terminology of that long-ago time, nifty .
As I was idly sitting in my train room recently, it struck me what a perfect test market the sales of that truck-and-track assembly made. At a minimum investment, and frankly I wouldn't know what that was in 1960 dollars, the manufacturer was able to judge how much interest there might be in expanding the market line to include, for example, an old wooden gondola and couplers.
From there, the sky was the limit.
AHA, I yelped quietly . What an interesting, eye-catching statement a pair of freight trucks --- Bettendorf or arch bar --- similarly mounted on rail to match either of the gages that I proposed --- P Scale (1:6, with track gage at 9 1/2 inches) OR Gordon Hatch Scale (1:4, with track gage at 14 inches, more or less) .
If armchair sailors can decorate their business offices with model ships, and they do, why can't we MegaScale T⁴ modelers --- for those of you who haven't been reading these blogs regularly, that stands for Traction, Transit, Trolleys, and Trams --- do likewise and decorate our homes and offices with, at least, a pair of giant traction trucks to keep those memories alive during our business day and tempt visitors to ask questions.
I'll state the advantages, mostly obvious :
1. You have something to gaze at while you're daydreaming of a traction empire.
2. It looks nice and does not take up as much room as, say, a trolley barn in those gages.
3. You can fasten the trucks to the ties (as in my sample) or you can allow it to roll freely to support your giant traction empire.
4. People, including you, yourself, can begin to judge what an impressive model the Full Monte, including a street scene backdrop, a turnout or two, and the overhead wire would make.
5. The model can serve as a recruiting tool for other potential Mega-scalers in your group.
6. You can order a second pair from the same maker and begin to build a model streetcar.
7. As alluded to above, it serves the manufacturer as a trial balloon --- a measure of market interest ; as a test product to determine final cost ; as the basis for a full streetcar model, if he opts to do it; and as something to put before the public, both in advertising images in traction publications and in its full glory at traction conferences, with minimal risk
Please let us know what you think by using the Comments feature in Blogger.Blogspot.
P.S. I use GAGE rather than GAUGE, to prevent myself from misreading --- in my head --- GUAGE, the all-too-common misspelling, which makes me want to say "Goo-age" . Thank you for bearing with my quirks.
Many years ago, we purchased from an advertisement in a model magazine, an easy-to-put-together model of an arch bar truck, in shiny brass finish, mounted on two short lengths of track which I carefully hand-spiked to the ties that were included. I don't recall any mention of a gage, but I just miked it and track gage comes out to 2.125 inches (the old Lionel Standard Gage). When assembled, it was fully sprung and, at my tender age, it was enough to keep me gleefully hand-testing the springing over and over again.
I don't recall who the manufacturer was, but the product was, in the terminology of that long-ago time, nifty .
As I was idly sitting in my train room recently, it struck me what a perfect test market the sales of that truck-and-track assembly made. At a minimum investment, and frankly I wouldn't know what that was in 1960 dollars, the manufacturer was able to judge how much interest there might be in expanding the market line to include, for example, an old wooden gondola and couplers.
From there, the sky was the limit.
AHA, I yelped quietly . What an interesting, eye-catching statement a pair of freight trucks --- Bettendorf or arch bar --- similarly mounted on rail to match either of the gages that I proposed --- P Scale (1:6, with track gage at 9 1/2 inches) OR Gordon Hatch Scale (1:4, with track gage at 14 inches, more or less) .
If armchair sailors can decorate their business offices with model ships, and they do, why can't we MegaScale T⁴ modelers --- for those of you who haven't been reading these blogs regularly, that stands for Traction, Transit, Trolleys, and Trams --- do likewise and decorate our homes and offices with, at least, a pair of giant traction trucks to keep those memories alive during our business day and tempt visitors to ask questions.
I'll state the advantages, mostly obvious :
1. You have something to gaze at while you're daydreaming of a traction empire.
2. It looks nice and does not take up as much room as, say, a trolley barn in those gages.
3. You can fasten the trucks to the ties (as in my sample) or you can allow it to roll freely to support your giant traction empire.
4. People, including you, yourself, can begin to judge what an impressive model the Full Monte, including a street scene backdrop, a turnout or two, and the overhead wire would make.
5. The model can serve as a recruiting tool for other potential Mega-scalers in your group.
6. You can order a second pair from the same maker and begin to build a model streetcar.
7. As alluded to above, it serves the manufacturer as a trial balloon --- a measure of market interest ; as a test product to determine final cost ; as the basis for a full streetcar model, if he opts to do it; and as something to put before the public, both in advertising images in traction publications and in its full glory at traction conferences, with minimal risk
Please let us know what you think by using the Comments feature in Blogger.Blogspot.
P.S. I use GAGE rather than GAUGE, to prevent myself from misreading --- in my head --- GUAGE, the all-too-common misspelling, which makes me want to say "Goo-age" . Thank you for bearing with my quirks.
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