The Track has been lifted.... The new beginning so version Mk 2.0

Ok, so last year was a washout.... After a promising start we had rain and more rain.   However, I kept shopping on ebay, waiting for the reasonably priced bargains after I ran out of larger curves and longer straights.  This year we are starting to see a glimmer of normal summer (i.e. sun and no rain) and I've lifted all the track.  There is nil, nada, zilch in the garden at the moment.

Why ? Basically to clean, test and check (e.g points - I already think I have a suspect 3 way point) track, motors and levers etc.   (Also to get the garage sorted but that is another issue).  Get my SPROG working and test (and re-number) the second hand decoders I've bought.  If I'm really clever I'll get my (second hand signal) to work and control track (at the moment I don't fully understand the instructions).

So, pictures of the track in boxes etc....  Some of it still could probably do with a wash, and some of it certainly still needs a clean and a fishplate check.

I've discovered that HP laserjet cartridge boxes from work are the ideal size to take second hand unboxed R1 points.  

So, we move to version 2.0.   This will be nothing more than a simple oval (single track) with passing places and the odd shunt siding, so that I can have trains run around the garden whilst I deal with cleaning etc what is left and planning.  The most tarnished track and points (R1) will get chosen for this task.   Even bought a surveyor's (30m) tape measure yesterday so I can  accurately measure the distances in the garden before playing around with the rail modeller software. 

Essentially, try and learn to walk first before trying to run, even if running is the eventual aim......

Whilst also having the track design sketchplan with the ideas and comments and work through the issues that it raises.  

(And I'm waiting excitedly for a new -well s/h - loco purchase to arrive.....)