GRVS Show Setup Task list:

Prior to Show:

The following should be done in a timely manner to allow the show coordinator time to plan for our layout in their show.

• Inform club members of the show.

Ask club members the following:

• Do you want a module in this show?
• Will you be there for setup and takedown? (these are mandatory if they have a module in the show)
• What days will you attend?

A schedule with all pertinent show information is usually kept on the GRVS website.

• Based on available modules – figure out a layout plan.

• Make drawing of layout plan.

• Contact the show coordinator and arrange a space for the proposed layout. This is usually in the form of registration paperwork.

• Include the layout size and additional space needed for crowd barrier
• Request number of tables needed.

• Before the show (usually at the meeting just before the show), remind people of the show Checklist. Repeat this request as needed.

Show/Layout Setup:

Arrive early to allow 3 to 4 hours of setup time.

• Contact the show coordinator and locate the space they have for the layout.

• As people start arriving, have them setup and preparing their module(s).

• Did they remember to bring the items outlined on the Checklist?
• Adjust legs to achieve a rail height of 40 inches.

• Using the layout drawing, start arranging the modules into the general layout shape without clamping them together.

Once the layout shape has been defined, the following tasks can be started:

• Pick a starting module and level (verify 40 inch rail height).
• Working from the "starting module", clamp and level the next module.
• Keep working around the whole layout until the whole layout is clamped together.

Once the whole layout is clamped together, the following tasks need to done:

• Mark block boundaries by placing “cards” at each boundary if the layout is large enough to require multiple blocks
• Install connecting track (use color-coded track, in GRVS "Track Box").
• Connect all Red, Blue, and Yellow Cinch connectors at each module joint. Except at marked block boundaries.
• If DCC is being used, install the loconet wires before hanging skirts.
• Do not collect block boundary cards until track power has been tested on all three lines.

Module owner should provide the following to finish setting up their module.

• Install (hang) curtain on module.
• Install backboard.
• Install Light.
• Power strip (6 foot cord or longer).
• Crowd barrier pole.
• Throttle

Finish Setup

When the layout is all clamped together, the General layout tasks can be started:

• Determine where power is coming from.
• Install GRVS GFCI pigtail extension cord at power source.
• Run extension cord (if needed) and tape to floor.
• Route power around layout using member supplied power strips.
• If layout is larger than 16 modules: use fewer lights, as power consumption will be less.

• Arrange crowd barrier poles around layout: usually 20 inches in front of modules.
• Feed rope through poles to form the fence.

• Connect throttles as per layout plan.

• Verify Lines:

• Clean all tracks.
• Verify all throttles and tracks are functional (test run locomotive to verify).
• Troubleshoot and fix any problems before show time.

• Store excess equipment under the modules

Layout Takedown:

DO NOT take down early if show does not allow it.

• Take down is pretty much opposite of setup.

• Remove rope crowd barrier.
• Remove module curtain.
• DCC team removes Loconet wires if DCC was used.
• Remove power cords.
• Disconnect Cinch connector at each module junction.

• Remove connector tracks and return to track box (observe color code) before unclamping modules.
• Unclamp modules and prepare for transport.
• Make sure equipment is returned to the proper owner.
• Verify area is clean before leaving.

At a following club meeting discuss "likes" and "dislikes" to help with the next show effort.