The wonderful Woodhead Route!

[OldProf]

I bought this route yesterday. So far, I've run one scenario successfully and started another. I've not encountered any problems running it and everything looks just fine. The route is a bit hard on the FPS rate, but 14-25 is good enough to allow everything to operate smoothly.

The Class 76 engine has some interesting controls that are fully explained in the route's manual; among other features, it includes user-controllable class code, cab and instrument lights, as well as an undocumented working window shade. A driver can select to use front, rear, or both pantographs: I'm not yet sure why one would be preferable to both, but intend to research this engine.

One feature that I and other scenario writers will appreciate is that this is the first route offered as DLC (or almost anywhere else, for that matter*) that breaks away, at least partially, from the unfortunate end-to-end siding markers. The manual states, "Please also note that not all sidings contain markers. Coupled with the use of the abbreviations [for track areas] above the intention is to make the views as uncluttered as possible." What this means, in addition to the obvious, is that in large yards -- and there are some monsters on this route -- some tracks are marked end-to-end, others are split into two marked lengths, and yet others have no markers at all. I would still prefer markers just long enough to indicate a destination or siding's designation, but this is certainly a step in the right direction.

By the way, the manual itself is practically a work of art. It has been laid out to look like a paper-bound, typewritten manual that I can easily imagine as typical of the period. In addition to well-done historical information and full description and operating instructions for the Class 76, it includes track layout and elevation diagrams and excellent illustrations of its truly immense yard areas. The Class 76 requires a 3-piece placement similar to that of some of the large steam locomotives, so be sure to read the instructions before grumbling.

The only drawback I've noticed so far is the by now typical lack of a passenger view from the coaches.

And now... back to Woodhead!

* One exception is Bob Artim's new NERW route: thanks, Bob! There may be others in routes unknown to me.

[Griphos]

Yeah, Tom, this is a great route, especially for freight enthusiasts like me. Lots of shunting potential as well, with many side areas to explore. Fantastic atmosphere, impeccable track work. It runs fine on my system. Better than HSC or WCML, but I haven't been to Manchester yet.

I've been spending more and more time on the UK routes. Still can't really get fired up by those passenger scenarios trying to keep to a timetable and stopping and going fast, then stopping again. But the freight scenarios are fun, with the added interest of weaving in and out of so many passenger trains. :-) WCML is a beaut, and I REALLY like the China Clay route (thanks again John for pointing that one out), but Woodhead is a new must have track for me. Maybe I'll find some problems as I run it more, but what I've seen so far puts it at the top of the pile. Love that 76!

[Abco]

I agree ! Woodhead Line is a must have route.

For a fan of old european electric locomotives like me, this class 76 is a dream. Even regenerative braking and paralel-series modes are simulated.
The route itself is really interesting to ride, there is the class 08 and the 8F for the same price, and the framerate is good.

Very happy !
Can't wait class 77 ...

[micaelcorleone]

Agree, a great piece of work by Derek.

I especially like the setting with the old-fashioned electrics running together with steamers and diesels.

[johnmckenzie]

Yes, agreed - I'm very impressed with the Woodhead route addon so far.

Beautiful route, utterly believable and as with the best routes out there it just "feels" right. And I should know, I live not a million miles away from the areas covered!

It's a must-have for me as well.

[johnmckenzie]

The Class 76 engine has some interesting controls that are fully explained in the route's manual; among other features, it includes user-controllable class code, cab and instrument lights, as well as an undocumented working window shade. A driver can select to use front, rear, or both pantographs: I'm not yet sure why one would be preferable to both, but intend to research this engine.

As with all early electric loco designs I can think of, the EM1 was provided with 2 pantographs - in theory one to use and one spare in case the one in use failed. I think I remember reading that the rear panto quickly became default for railways as the theory was that if it failed and also damaged the cable then the forward one had already passed the damaged area so you at least had some chance of continuing your journey. I do know that single panto use was what was intended for the EM1 and EM2 designs however the low voltage of the Woodhead electrification (1,500v dc) made current supply quite uneven to the locos. It was found that running with both pans raised reduced this effect greatly and this quickly became the norm. Because of the experience of the Woodhead electrification when BR decided on a standard for overhead supply they chose 25,000v ac instead. They were right to do so; it has proven far superior in use than the older system.

The Woodhead retained non-standard electrification right up to the end. As a result, the electric traction on this line was restricted to this route alone. It was the life expiry of both the locos and the overhead equipment which dictated it's closure, in the early 1980s it was deemed simply too expensive to replace the infrastructure and the rolling stock. Bye-bye, Woodhead route.

Hope this helps
John

[Marleyman]

If you have not seen the route yet, here it is in 15min flat!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=pl ... dgJCCmAi9U

[rninrvr]

Looks good, I will wait until the next sale and purchase it. With both Fort Kent and Ohio Steel 2 recently purchased, I have a lot to run right now so don't need anything else.

[OldProf]

Looks good, I will wait until the next sale and purchase it. With both Fort Kent and Ohio Steel 2 recently purchased, I have a lot to run right now so don't need anything else.

Who are you kidding? We always need new DLC ... this isn't just a railroad simulator, it's an addiction ... well, at least an obsession. Unlike the folks who post "I can't wait for this" messages every time new DLC is announced, I can wait ... until a short time after the actual release. I found myself checking and rechecking the RSC web site on the release date scheduled for Woodhead. My only excuse is that I'm retired.

[Griphos]

I don't even have that excuse!

[Chacal]

I like how you ease the train in motion by subtly jamming the throttle at 79%.
Coffee drinking passengers must love you!

If you have not seen the route yet, here it is in 15min flat!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=pl ... dgJCCmAi9U

[Griphos]

It's electric! It don't start fast no matter what you do. :-) It don't stop fast either. A passenger's delight...as long as the driver starts braking early enough not to drive right past the platform. Don't ask....

[Marleyman]

I like how you ease the train in motion by subtly jamming the throttle at 79%.
Coffee drinking passengers must love you!

They have lids on the coffee cups... honest :P

[OldProf]

They have lids on the coffee cups... honest :P

How do you know that without a passenger view? Aha! You've been peeking into coach windows at stations again, haven't you?