My Switching Layout.... - The Whistle Post

TallDude · #1 (**permalink**) 05-04-2006, 06:19 PM

Since my job situation is somewhat in limbo, I've decided to build a modular switching layout in my attic instead of the railroad empire I had planned. This will allow me to do some modelling while also having a layout I can move easily and incorporate in a future layout once I figure out the job issue.

I found a nice switching plan designed by Robert Hargrave (who modified part of Dave Barrow's South Plains District) that is designed around a 18 inch x 15 foot layout. I plan on using this as a basis for a 2 foot by 16 foot (or so) layout. I have attached a picture out the track plan below (hopefully Robert won't mind).

I am currently straightening up the rest of my attic and construction will begin this weekend. The rest of the track should hopefully be here tommorrow.

I'll be starting off with the left half (two 2x4 modules). Then we'll tackle the right side (after a trip to get some more wood).

I'll keep posting updates in this thread as things progress.

Boss Boomer · #2 (**permalink**) 05-04-2006, 06:44 PM

That looks entirely satisfactory to get you started, TD! Plenty of switching action on that pike fersure. Making it wider and longer gives you a wee bit more room for scenery and a slightly longer run between each end of town. I can easily see a 44 Tonner or SW7 running back and forth shoving cars into and out of sidings and gathering cars in preparation for the local road switcher to pick 'em up on the way to points "elsewhere."

Plus, being smaller than GIGANTIC, it will go together relatively quickly and get you running trains all the sooner. Making it modular will help when you incorporate it into a larger lay-out sometime down the road a piece.

ak-milw · #3 (**permalink**) 05-04-2006, 07:25 PM

TD,
glad to here you are starting,we WILL need to see alot of pictures!!

TallDude · #4 (**permalink**) 05-20-2006, 10:00 PM

Got the forst two modules built (total of 2 feet by 8 feet), now I just need to take them up to the attic and put the legs on.. After that, I'll start laying some track and taking some pictures. Also ended up buying a new drill in the process...LOL

ak-milw · #5 (**permalink**) 05-20-2006, 10:33 PM

TD, Can't wait to see your progress!

Trainman1965 · #6 (**permalink**) 05-21-2006, 06:54 AM

You know there TD you should have took before and after shots of the attic that was a job buy it's self. But i wont to see some rails running around up there. Keep us posted

TallDude · #7 (**permalink**) 05-22-2006, 08:46 PM

Well... the first piece of track has been laid...I will probably moved the beginning of the ladder to the 2nd module as I don't like having switches over module sections. And no, the 2nd piece of flex track is not nailed down.

Using Atlas Code 83 track. You can see my small gold mine of switches in the upper right corner.

Building the first module in the basement as there is more light there at the moment, and its cooler. Will eventually be moved to the attic.

ak-milw · #8 (**permalink**) 05-22-2006, 09:06 PM

TD,
When I look at your photo I can smell the wood, great start, probably would be a good idea to move the turnouts!!

Boss Boomer · #9 (**permalink**) 06-18-2006, 12:17 PM

Hey, TD! Any progress on yer lay-out in the last few weeks that ya want to show us???

TallDude · #10 (**permalink**) 06-18-2006, 04:42 PM

Haven't had much of a chance to work on it the last few weeks. Father-in-Law passed away a few weeks ago and my boss got fired, so I've been up to my eyeballs in work. Hope to get back working on it shortly. Need to figure out a cooler place to work on it though.. Attic is way too hot at the moment. Might have to put it in a spare bedroom and rethink the track plan a bit (add a curve in the middle).