Scott, I would also point out that the new S Scale SIG (an NMRA associated Special Interest Group) offers a mentoring program for those new to S. They will help walk you through some of these issues and help you get started. Here's a direct link to a page with more info: http://sscale.org/s-scale-resources/specialists-and-mentors/ You could also reply directly to me and I'd be happy to make the arrangements.
Helping those new to S is one of the major roles of this new SIG. They are there to help you. Chris Borgmeyer S Scale SIG Board of Directors
