Explore Route with static consists (and how to flip the Track Monitor)

[markyisri]

Hi,

I'm trying to explore the route with static consists placed but I can't find a way to do it. Using the standard "short path" method from MSTS doesn't work for me, as Open Rails instantly stops the train as I run off the path.

Also, I'd like to know when running in a reversed cab if it is possible for manual or automatic flipping of the Track Monitor, and the G/Shift-G switch changer keys. I liked the MSTSBin method better, where you wouldn't have known.

Thanks,
Mark

[Vince]

Hi Mark,
A1. In Explore Mode you cant place static consists.
You CAN however start in activity that has Static ( usable ) consists place and go to Manual Mode.

A2. In Activity Mode, look at the train direction arrow. Operation is different in Explore Mode. The Manual has answers!

regards,

[conductorchris]

Press control M to get to manual mode.

(Most of my railroading has been done on track without signals and with manual switches, so I have a hard time getting my head around the idea of a manual mode. )

Christopher

[markyisri]

The problem with Manual Mode is that I have to clear all the signals manually. I want the signals to clear automatically, except where a static consist is, and drive like Explorer.

[Vince]

I want the signals to clear automatically, except where a static consist is, and drive like Explorer.

Sure, you can do that. But you have to be in an activity to have static consists available for switching, aka shunting.

I'll speak here of an activity that I 'know' where you can do this.
On my Long Island RR route there is an activity, Central Pickups, that has you pick up about 10 different loose consists on 10 different sidings and a short (2 mile) branch line and then take them to the West Holban Yard.
The activity can be run entirely in Autopilot Mode . . . This gives you a quick intro to the activity and helps you to plan how you will run it.
You interact with AI trains along the way. I don't have you picking up ALL the loose consists but at any time you can go to Manual Mode and pick up additional cars on the many sidings in the route. (over 200)
As long as you position your train back on it's assigned path you can return to Activity Mode and continue on to West Holban (all yard tracks are clearly labeled) Here the activity will end when you tie down your train in the yard BUT you can continue operations.
I have loose consists on many yard tracks with operable loose consists!
Pick up and switch to your hearts delight to take them anywhere in the 500 track miles available in the route.
Hey! Those coal hoppers in the East yard need to be taken to Bay Ridge and the Oil cans in the West yard to Long Island City Car Floats. AND. . .there is no worry about signals . . . there are NO signals only non-operating static signals) . . . don't need 'em! You ARE required to throw any switches you need to to get you to where you want to go. I realize that will take some time for you to learn the route. Bae patient!
There are many activities for you to run in Autopilot Mode so you can learn the route. And signals can't be installed them until track is finished . . . only 700 miles to go . . . sigh...

The AI runs perfectly without signals and the indications in your F4 Track Monitor will show you where you cannot go by means of a RED BAR across the track. Thou shall not pass! It could be a closed switch or an approaching AI. Just don't proceed until you look at the dispatcher window to check for approaching traffic.

regards,

[ebnertra000]

In explore mode I will occasionally have signals that don't clear, and I will have to use dispatcher mode to clear them manually. I don't recall the key combination, but it's in the manual

[markyisri]

OK Vince, but can I run, for example, in the NECv4 in Manual Mode, have static consists, and have signals clear automatically?

[Vince]

No.