I've been thinking about building a layout for several years now and after being frustrated with lack of room available for a HO layout, I've decided to go N scale.
Plan is pretty basic, but I had a few requirements.
- A double main line (of sorts)
- Bridges and a river bed (ending in a creek and culvert)
- A small yard and engine house
- Some inclines
Here is the plan...
Exciting stuff I know, but my kids will go ballistic, they love running the little N scale loco around my desk with the set track forming a basic loop.
I had a 2 1/2' x 4' base board built (was going to be a HO module) so I bought some 2" thick styrene foam (hot knife compatible) and laid out the track plan on top.
I've then pinned the 2% grade inclines and risers. The outer track is 1" above the foam base and the inner will be 1/2"
Next the outer track was pinned down and adjusted, including adding the viaduct pieces (except not at the right height, so a slight bump up and down)
Lastly a couple of loops with a BNSF GP-9 and some carraiges. (the requisite building shot sign1)
Over the next few days I will be gluing and forming the foam base on some 3.6mm ply, so the river bed and creek will take shape. I'll also start gluing the risers and inclines in place.
Hopefully I'll have an update after that.
I know this is basic, but it is a start. I'm keen to try my hand at some of the building and landscaping aspects. With any luck I'll be able to learn a few things and apply them to a larger and more complex layout. One which will be more prototypical and realistic in operation. Until then, it is double loop time for me!
Plan is pretty basic, but I had a few requirements.
- A double main line (of sorts)
- Bridges and a river bed (ending in a creek and culvert)
- A small yard and engine house
- Some inclines
Here is the plan...
Exciting stuff I know, but my kids will go ballistic, they love running the little N scale loco around my desk with the set track forming a basic loop.
I had a 2 1/2' x 4' base board built (was going to be a HO module) so I bought some 2" thick styrene foam (hot knife compatible) and laid out the track plan on top.
I've then pinned the 2% grade inclines and risers. The outer track is 1" above the foam base and the inner will be 1/2"
Next the outer track was pinned down and adjusted, including adding the viaduct pieces (except not at the right height, so a slight bump up and down)
Lastly a couple of loops with a BNSF GP-9 and some carraiges. (the requisite building shot sign1)
Over the next few days I will be gluing and forming the foam base on some 3.6mm ply, so the river bed and creek will take shape. I'll also start gluing the risers and inclines in place.
Hopefully I'll have an update after that.
I know this is basic, but it is a start. I'm keen to try my hand at some of the building and landscaping aspects. With any luck I'll be able to learn a few things and apply them to a larger and more complex layout. One which will be more prototypical and realistic in operation. Until then, it is double loop time for me!
