Railworks America

Hello all! I know some of the simmers here have driven trains in their lifetime and others have not. I am of the second group. I apologize if any of these questions have been answered elsewhere or are extremely newbie-like.

When I've been playing TS2013 over the last few months (after taking a year or two off), I find myself using the F3 HUD. The F4 HUD just had too much going on and was unnecessary, but I felt like I needed to see the current speed limit, grade, when signals are coming up, etc. I tried playing a scenario yesterday with it off and it was a lot more fun and challenging. This is how I would like to play from now on.

I have a few questions though. I realize that "knowing" the line/route is how I can figure out where the signals are as well as grades. Speed limits too, but there are also signs. One thing that relates to speed limits though- How does a present-day engineer know when all of the train is in the "new" speed limit section (without a man in the caboose!)?

Another thing I noticed that might be a bit challenging is when there are very specific reverse/stop points in scenarios. I think it adds to the immersion considerably when I don't have to bring up the HUD or the F1 Markers to figure out where I need to stop. I've noticed some scenario creators are really good at this and make a long stop point so that if you stop at/near the signal where you should, you're in the right area to complete that step. Do most of you play with or without the HUD?

Thanks in advance!

Its not a dumb question. Its a good question

But anyways I do drive "Steam" with a F3 Hud to keep up with the controls I need to use. Most players use F4 or F5 depend how they use it.

Quote: "I have a few questions though. I realize that "knowing" the line/route is how I can figure out where the signals are as well as grades. Speed limits too, but there are also signs. One thing that relates to speed limits though- How does a present-day engineer know when all of the train is in the "new" speed limit section (without a man in the caboose!)?"

Remember that prototype engineers drive the same route every day for years. They learn where the signals and speed limit signs are. In fact, they must pass several tests before they are qualified to run a train over a particular subdivision. With RW, most route designers place speed limit approach signs a mile before the speed changes. Also, most interlocking signal installations have an approach signal located a mile from the plant itself. These help, but engineers must know their territory. As to passing a speed limit section, engineers know how long their consist is and can "guesstimate" when the rear of their train is in the new speed limit section. It's not exact, but the prototype railroads make it work.

Hope this helps.