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Post by ednadolski on Mar 19, 2024 9:28:40 GMT -5
I know there are several module standards for Z-scale, but as a noob to the scale I was just wondering, is there a version of the Free-Mo standard for Z scale? Has anyone considered or tried this?
AFAICT from looking at Free-MoN it seems to me that the same thing ought to work just fine for Z, tho it could also be useful to add something like alignment pins for modules. That, and probably allow a choice of either DC or DCC operation (depending on the setup) (and dropping LocoNet which IIUC has a bit of disfavor in some circles).
Thoughts?
TIA, Ed
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Post by dazed on Mar 19, 2024 10:20:25 GMT -5
I am not aware of any Free-moZ groups.
I have considered it.
I think the reason it hasn't a following in Z (yet?) is because of your second paragraph, which is sort of a summary of the challenges all modular spec's face. I do think that if you don't require DCC, that would be huge mistake.
I split my time now between Z and also in N as a member of a Free-moN group in Texas. I have mixed feelings about modular groups. I do think modular railroading is great...my ultimate goal with Free-moN is to be able to build a series of modules as my "dream layout" and be able to set it up temporarily at home for ops sessions but otherwise don't have a massive footprint of a home layout.
My goal is Z is the opposite. I want to build that home layout in Z. I can build my " reasonable dream layout" in a small bedroom. One of the two options (Free-moN modules setup on a whim, or the Z home layout) will eventually win out. We are anticipating moving in 3-4 years and I'll see what type of space I'll have then. (which will be our "forever home" until we hit the retirement community phase)
The great thing about Free-moN is that it is ops-focused and "holds a higher standard" all across the board. (or at least it is supposed to) In Z, ops is less of a thing currently. Do I think Free-moZ, with focus on ops and pushing the envelope modeling-wise is possible? Yes. Are we there yet? Maybe. I do think Z is seeing a resurgance so we'll see.
The things I don't like about the modular concept is (a) politics, (b) lack of congruity on modules, and (c) as the modules get smaller you get more people which means less windows for running trains, more politics, and more of the congruity problem. When our Free-moN group started, it was supposed to be a small group that would setup a few times per year to do ops, *generally* in the D/FW area. It took about 5 minutes to spiral out of control and guys wanting to be part of massive setups across the US. Not really my cup of tea.
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Post by rvn2001 on Mar 19, 2024 11:27:37 GMT -5
One of the reasons the MidweZt HaulerZ chose the Z-bend Track concept is that it has 2 mainlines. One can be DC and the other can be DCC.
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Post by dazed on Mar 19, 2024 11:40:54 GMT -5
One of the reasons the MidweZt HaulerZ chose the Z-bend Track concept is that it has 2 mainlines. One can be DC and the other can be DCC. The Free-mo concept only specifies/requires a single track, and thus having two control standards would not be wise. And, it wouldn't follow Free-mo spec. So if one wants to do that it's perfectly fine, it just would not be Free-mo. |
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Post by BAZman on Mar 19, 2024 13:11:04 GMT -5
About 90% of modules are orthogonal (most are 90, then 45, etc.)
About all are 2 parallel tracks, spaced from a fornt edge.
Zmod of Norway has same front offset as Z-Bend Track [ZBT for ease of typing] but ‘half’ the ZBT (using only one side, similar to T-track.
About 25 years ago, the Bill Kronenberger formed the ZBT as ‘standard’ for many of us to get together. Fairly successful. The ZoCal group (Southern Cali) has Dozens of ZBT modules. But many did not have room or desire so just maid their own. I have now had my zbt modules for 22 years but have only taken them only to shows, a real waste. So now with permanent housing (the past 5 years) I am deconmising them for house use. Some that are just scenic will be cut in half (lengthwise) whereas Modules with a lot of components and End modules will make up the Corners.
The only Z ‘Free-Mo concept I have seen was Daniel Baechtold of Switzerland, modeling single track Canada.
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Post by marmot on Mar 22, 2024 23:21:48 GMT -5
I noticed that the European Z scale group uszlines.de has a Free-mo look to it. There's a YouTube video here that shows it:
The Z scale portion starts around 10:50 into that video.
The video also points to the YouTube channel z220bahner
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