Noel

Just On-off switches on our set up. Only need isolation breaks on one rail side. It means only single wire needed for each block section. For quick conversion to DCC just flick every switch to on and connect DCC in parrallel to former DC controller output pairs (ie after disconnecting DC controller physically or via switches).

Each layout continuous loop is split into 4 switchable block sections with a split in the middle of stations so two locos can be isolated on the same track. Most sidings have a switchable isolation block at one end, and engine shed, service roads have isolation blocks ever 12inches. All wired up to a switch panel with switches located over a schematic track diagram. Terminus switch panel Level 1 switch panel (2 x continuous loops) Electric schematic of Level 2 (2 x continuous loops)

Happy Easter and Blessings to all.

Just an idea Kevin, but have you thought of renumbering models that are still available from sources such as CD and others?

+1 John has done custom finishes for me recently at no extra cost.

If it has on board wifi I could be very interested Seamus!

Hi Rich, Yes I have quite a stable now of MMs incredible 141/181s, a few 071s and a single 201. I've decided to operate more of the baby GMs on our layout than the 071s as they are so versatile for mixed traffic 60s/70s use with shorter coaching stock, 2 axel loose coupled goods wagons, etc, and can double head for longer pax trains and long good trains. The 071s are also very nice especially the IE/IR tip-pex livery, but I only need two mainline express locos. The 201 looks quite out of place on our layout simply because of the era we are operating the models, and I find it just too long a loco as well as not being a fan of the prototype. I just hope any future 121 has a chassis that runs as smoothly and geared as perfectly as the MM 141/181s. I had considered cannibalising my single super train livery MM 141 into a 121 by building a cab and nose out of plasticard, adding deeper side frame panels, and respraying black and tan livery. But if MM release a 121 any time in the next 5 years, I'm happy to wait for that and buy a pair to run nose2nose. Noel Noel

121 in Black'n'Tan or 124 in IR/IE Orange livery

Very fair comment. The glass is more than 90% full as far as I am concerned with this vendor. Changed the whole hobby here in Ireland for the better. Ok, there can be ups and downs, and when there is a problem its fair to highlight it, but there have been vastly more positives than negatives. However in the future I would prefer to pay significantly more for a Bachmann produced 121 loco model than the plant in China that produced the more recent 201s. IMHO, the MM/Bachmann manufactured 141/181s have not been equaled nor surpassed for supreme running and quality detailed finishes - they are sublime in every respect. Business can be full of risks and one can only wish MM well.

Best of luck with such an exciting and interesting project. The space opens up many possibilities. Really looking forward to watching your layout evolve and progress.

At last I have collected a full house of superb MM 141/181 black'n'tan locos and a b&t 142 in the making! 141, 142, 165, 181, 188 I just love this livery with b&t coaches, mm cravens and ifm park royals. Now about to attempt a respray of LMS stainers into CIE b&t laminate look-a-likes.

Superb. Love the cracks on the tarmac road surface.

There are some amazing historic maps. Point depot: http://maps.osi.ie/publicviewer/#V1,717943,734617,7,9 LNW&R north wall station: http://maps.osi.ie/publicviewer/#V1,717264,734696,7,9 Amiens Street: http://maps.osi.ie/publicviewer/#V1,716837,735140,7,9

Your welcome. It was fun and interesting to do. Might try and team up with clubs to run a more comprehensive survey in the future (e.g. 25 questions).

Kingsbridge main yards and terminus (copyright OSI) Kingsbridge link to Guinness sidings (copyright OSI)

Thanks Dave. Might try and get a hi-res copy of that sometime. Looking Have a look at the OSI online map viewer using some of the historic maps. Depending on the zoom level you choose different maps come up. The one below is an old track plan. Interesting how big the Guinness broad gauge goods yard was across the road (i.e. via the siding that used to run along St John's road west). http://maps.osi.ie/publicviewer/#V1,713232,734195,7,9

Superb Richie. She looks great.

Great paintwork. Looks great.

Great stuff

Given the 'alleged' black overspray and 'alleged' variability of the black panel positioning around the windows, would spraying the IE/IR white stripes above and below the black panel correct most of the problems? Ok decals would also be needed for intercity logos on the lower panels, but if these couches can be got for under €30-40 such an inexpensive modification could make sense for folks looking for IE/IR orange roofed mk2ds.

Looks like a few brand new super train coaches may be going for a keen price on ebay. The photographs being perpendicular in the box make the black panels look parallel unless you look at them right way up. Might be a good deal for those who wish to respray tip-pex white stripes on. http://www.ebay.ie/itm/131464071319?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2648

Yes I did, well it was looking that way after their staggering points difference win against Italy. Never been more delighted to miscalculate probability.

Yes and they did a river dance haka just before the trophy presentation SCO 3 - IRE 73 Well done ladies

Wonderful atmosphere in there served with a perfect portion of Black and Tan.

Some really nicely composed shots with excellent lighting. Love the 1st shot where the footbridge frames the railcar.