Are you running or operating your trains?
Your layout looks great. Your trains are running and look well used. It is now time to decide if you are going to run trains or operate a railroad.
So what is the difference between running a train and operating a railroad? Well, running a train means you turn the power on, increase the throttle and let the train go around the layout. Now, while running a train, you might accelerate on the straight away, slow on the curves and even toot a whistle at a grade crossing.
Operating is a bit more complicated. You have a schedule, set stops and a timetable to observe.
Now, many folks have small layouts. There may only be a foot or two between stops. So, modellers often create a sense of distance, by running the train around the tracks two to three times between each stop. A lot depends on whether you are running a passenger train or a freight train.
Passenger trains need announcements. You can pre-record the announcements or make the announcements as you go. You have to tell the passengers when the next stop is.
Once the stop is finished, you have to say “All aboard.” Then announce the train and where it is going to ensure everyone is on the correct train: “This is the 10:15 to Union Farm with stops at Dutch Quarter and Middle Region.”
If you are running freight, you have to pull up to the stop. Throw a switch, back up, and hook up to the empty cars. You have to pull forward to clear the siding. Throw the switch, back up and park the empties. Then it is forward again, past the switch. Throw the switch, back up onto the siding and drop off the full cars. Disconnect, pull forward, then throw the switch again, back up, hook up to the empties and off you go to the next stop and another pickup and delivery.
Both running trains and operating a railroad can be a lot of fun. Just enjoy what you do. Also, attend train club meetings. Most train clubs have an online presence and even broadcast club meetings for maximum attendance.
Meet other modellers and share your successes and ask advice about the things that did not work so well. One source of interest is photographers who enjoy taking photos of trains. These clubs record both old and new trains. It is a great resource of information about railroads.
Most of all, enjoy running and/or operating your trains, and, most important, do not be afraid of change. Look for ways to improve your layout. Explore running a freight train between passenger trains.
Until next time, hope to see you around the tracks.
