Modeling Commuter Trains

[conrail1973]

I was wondering if anyone models commuter trains on their layout.  While my current layout is switching layout (ideas for another layout might be discussed in another post), I am beginning to build up a roster of Metro North equipment for the time period of '83-85.  This includes a FL9 and B23-7 for Metro North and 2 Phase 1 Amtrak coaches.  I'll probably pick-up a PC 8600 coach as Metro North was running  a-lot of older steam heated coaches before new coaches came on board in '85-86.  Anyhow, I would like to know how people model and operate commuter trains on their layout.  I am curious to see if anyone models high-level platforms on their layouts.

Thanks,

Adam

[MetroRedLine]

I sort of do, I own a few Athearn Bombardier Metrolink coaches + cab car and F59PHI, though not seriously, as my layout's geography is outside of Metrolink's system and despite me modeling the current Modern Era, the Metrolink livery on the Athearn trains is already outdated. But I run them as if they were purchased/loaned from Metrolink for a regional line in Central California. Though not high platforms, I did make my own standard-height platforms out of evergreen styrene. By measuring the prototype's loading gauge dimensions you can make high-level platforms, just try to avoid curved platforms (unless your curves are very broad).

[johnb]

yes I do...still need poles

[jereising]

Take a look at Daryl Kruse's Geneva Sub - http://genevasub.blogspot.com/

He does Metra rather nicely...

[conrail1973]

I like the touches on the Geneva Sub with regards to the Kato station kit and the parking area around the station.  That has given me some ideas for the next layout.  By the way, I just received my B23-7 for Metro North, and I have a complete train set for the shuttle trains they ran from Croton to Poughkeepsie.  From the information that I gathered, the B23-7's  were used for every purpose from passenger runs to work trains.  Now it's time to plan a layout that I can properly run them on. 

[Rossford Yard]

On my last layout, and IHB theme, I had a static Metra commuter on the old RI over my version of Blue Island Junction.  As a Chicagoan, who grew up a block from the CNW NW line, I had to have some of that, even if they didn't run on IHB.  I did run my Kato versions very unprototypically around my main when no one was looking, though.     Station wasn't modeled, but some of the platforms, which extended to the bridges were.

[dougnelson]

Not exactly a commuter train, but here is the LIRR Canonball:

[Cajonpassfan]

I've since sold this Metrolink trainset (obviously a wrong era for me) but plan to replace it with a three car, steam powered commuter local that made two round trips between LA and San Bernardino. Commuter trains can add interest in that they run on more or less precise schedules and "get in the way" of revenue producing operations. It can be fun working around them...
Otto K.

[RRRover]

Cajonpassfan,

My old hangout was San Berdoo. Back in the 80s the ATSF carpenter built an S scale replica of the depot and other wooden railroad art pieces in the depot's basement woodshop on his breaks - I got to see him in action. I think the depot model may be on display somewhere in the area.

[Cajonpassfan]

Well, there is a very nice professionally built HO scale model in the lobby area, inside a lexan case. There will be a swap meet inside the depot this Saturday if you're still local.
Otto K.

[Joetrain59]

Doug, love the LIRR modeling. Lived on LI for many years. Always good to see the home road modeled.
 Joe D

[OldEastRR]

Brass C-liner?

[nickelplate759]

Looks like a seriously upgraded Atlas/Rivarossi C-liner to me.  Well done!

[Ed Kapuscinski]

I've got a PC RS1, RS3 and GP7 and I plan on getting the MTL PC coaches. Does that count?

I've also got a pair of Kato RDCs and some MARC decals that are going to meet sometime soon.

[Point353]

I've got a PC RS1, RS3 and GP7 and I plan on getting the MTL PC coaches. Does that count?

What you really want is an E8 and a single streamlined car to model the Baltimore-Harrisburg via York train: