I don't know how to draw up track plans on the computer, basically I use excel (I'm a beancounter) and make rudimentary track plans.
Anyway, my idea for a layout is as follows.
First some background:
I'm not a very good modeler and really don't enjoy the modelling aspect of model railroading as much as the collection of trains. This might change in the future, but for now I could be characterized as a "model railroad railfan". I just love to watch the trains!
I mentioned in another thread that I have started collecting Bachman's On30 equipment. They run great and look really good as well. I also have a small collection of HO gauge stuff that I like to run as well.
My idea is to create a simple shelf around the walls layout, very similar to Jim Kelly's Wildcat Central that I found in "Basic Model Railroad Trackplans". I propose to use Code 100 HO track for the layout as I am not really concerned with realism. This way I can run both the On30 trains and the HO trains on the same layout. (I understand there can be a problem with turnouts when operating On30 on code 83.) I will make models of buildings and place them on removeable panels on the layout, to get experience in the modelling aspect of model railroading and to make the layout more interesting. This way I can enjoy both HO and On30 in a 10 X 12 area. I know this goes away from what many of you enjoy most about modelling, but for me its all about the trains, and I love both HO and On30! What do you all think?
Mike
Anyway, my idea for a layout is as follows.
First some background:
I'm not a very good modeler and really don't enjoy the modelling aspect of model railroading as much as the collection of trains. This might change in the future, but for now I could be characterized as a "model railroad railfan". I just love to watch the trains!
I mentioned in another thread that I have started collecting Bachman's On30 equipment. They run great and look really good as well. I also have a small collection of HO gauge stuff that I like to run as well.
My idea is to create a simple shelf around the walls layout, very similar to Jim Kelly's Wildcat Central that I found in "Basic Model Railroad Trackplans". I propose to use Code 100 HO track for the layout as I am not really concerned with realism. This way I can run both the On30 trains and the HO trains on the same layout. (I understand there can be a problem with turnouts when operating On30 on code 83.) I will make models of buildings and place them on removeable panels on the layout, to get experience in the modelling aspect of model railroading and to make the layout more interesting. This way I can enjoy both HO and On30 in a 10 X 12 area. I know this goes away from what many of you enjoy most about modelling, but for me its all about the trains, and I love both HO and On30! What do you all think?
Mike