Before I begin my own project...

[ryehill]

Gentlemen.
I have a few queries I'd like help with from your greater knowledge before I start work on my first project.

1. I wish to utilise a trackplan in the Peco Setrack plans book that is remarkably similar to the location I wish to model. This plan is designed for code 100 Peco set track but, I want to use Peco code 75 for it's finer scale appearance. Is code 75 track sections the same as code 100 with respect to straight-section lengths and point turn-out/curve radii?

2. My layout is to be called "Ryehill" an actual LMS West Yorkshire branchline set in about 1938 to it's closure in the mid 1960s. It is to be DCC. Would the LMS mainline and suburban coach kits produced by Ratio models be happy running on code 75 rail, built from the box?

3. Would there be any problems with Hornby RTR Black 5s and Bachmann Fowler/Fairburn 2-6-4 tanks now available, running on code 75 with at least 2nd and 3rd radius curves?

4. Which is the best, practical DCC system to use. Bachmann? Hornby? Another?

This is an all-from-new layout that will be built on a 7ft x4ft baseboard and take full advantage of the latest DCC technology and I have yet to purchase track, Locos and rolling stock. And that's why I joined the forum. I don't have the money to waste on too many mistakes.

Thanks you all in anticipation of your sound suggestions.

Simon

[Flashbang]

Hi
AFAIK Peco Code 75 track is only available from their Streamline range.
The track plan you have is based on their Setrack code 100 range. Setrack is fixed sections of track in curved and straight lengths. Streamline is flexible track sold in 36 inch lengths which is cut to suit the location if needed or simply joined end to end to make longer lengths.
The points in Streamline are to a different geometry and larger in length than Setrack and the distance between tracks is differently too. Setrack is 67mm while Streamline is at 50mm centre to centre.

Your plan won't convert directly to the Streamline track range, but it could be modified to suit Code 75 Streamline if you're careful.

All modern rolling stock (say after 1990) will run on Code 75 rail profile without a problem

As for DCC I would advise you to avoid 'Train set' manufacturers items of control. Look closely at the NCE PowerCab. Its an excellent starter system and receives very good reports from all users. Example of the PowerCab PowerCab example link (http://www.bromsgrovemodels.co.uk/pd-670066615.htm?categoryId=98)

You may find this web site and especially its electrical and DCC pages of interest?.....http://www.brian-lambert.co.uk

[ryehill]

Thanks very much indeed for this Flashbang. You must now get the idea of how small my knowledge is!! Since posting this plea, I saw something else on the NCE Powercab DCC system here, from someone else who sang it's praises so, this I will look deeper into as my powersource. Thanks for providing the link.

As for the trackplan, I could extend the baseboard dimensions to accommodate the differences with Streamline code 75 over setrack code 100 rail. It's basically a single track branchline oval with a station and run-round loop and goods/locoshed sidings and heavy on scenic details. But if it proves beyond my skills to build the layout with cutting code 75 flexitrack to fit, I'll compromise with code 100.

Mainly though, it's a relief to hear that my intended loco and rolling stock models can negotiate the finer scale track without a problem at least.

Thanks once again
Simon