Dawn of the Genset Era

Keeping my model railroad up to date is not an easy task, but it does allow me to have constant inspiration from around my surroundings. Part of staying current is motive power. The mechanical department has recently begun a modernization initiative. This program includes adding GPS units, air conditioners, and reflective taping to units.

New additions to the fleet have also been coming from National Railway Equipment. Recently the first 3GS21B from Atlas Trainman arrived, but is currently off at Fogelsinger Rail being painted.

A unique program for modernizing the SD35 fleet has also been implemented with two directions being taken. Two SD35s are currently being converted to 3GS21C's without dynamic brakes as noted by the photo below of the unit at Bay Yard on its way to Fogelsinger Rail for painting.

The other SD35s will be converted to SD22ECO's that will utilize a NRE genset style cab with a EMD 8 cylinder 710 engine.

Our Newest Arrival

Our first child Grayson was born on November, 27th at 2328 local time. He is such a joy to have and alot of work but being a parent is such an awesome experience. I look forward to the time we will spend together working on the model railroad.

Bay Yard - Fall 2012 Update

A quick update on Bay Yard - the final track plan has been developed for the yard and should be completed by early January 2013. The yard consists of 6 through tracks that can be used for classification, blocking, or arrival / departure

Above the R-BAUH "Huron Turn" has just returned to Bay Yard after making a run to Upper Huron to drop off and pick up traffic for local delivery by the Upper Huron based switcher.

The terminal also has a 2 track diesel service facility for inspecting, fueling, and making light repairs to motive power assigned to or moving through Bay City.

Layout Update

My last update was on March 30, 2012 over 8 months ago. I do however have results to show regarding layout construction that has taken place during this time.

The biggest improvement completed over this time was the benchwork, mainline, and upper staging yard completion.

 The left side of the layout above taken from the room entrance shows the mainline banking into the super elevated curve heading toward Gray Lake, Gerhard, and Port Huron staging.

Right side of the layout from the room entrance showing the helix exit onto the upper deck leading through the Upper Huron Wye and over the Quanicassee Creek heading east. Soon a backdrop will hide the helix opening and the staging / through tracks along the back of the room by the poster.