Search results
Jul 26, 2022 · In part 1 of this ongoing series on planning and building a model railroad layout, we looked at the all-important question of “Why do you want to build a layout in the first place?” In part 2, we’ll look at the tactical planning elements of a layout, focusing specifically on your track configuration.
Mar 28, 2024 · We will give you a step by step illustrated guide on how to draw a scale Model Railroad Track Plan beginning with an overview of some design basics such as location and shape, era, types of trains you want to run on your layout, and some brief operational and scenic ideas to consider.
Step 1 – Capture your goals and resources. Step 2 – Prioritize the ideas and start to design trackwork. Step 3 – Add size and detail to the ideas to create a schematic or rough draft. Step 4 – Draw your track plan in sufficient detail to allow building benchwork and laying track.
Oct 10, 2023 · It is important to choose the right scale for your model train layout as it affects the level of detail, available space, and the cost of the train cars and accessories. The most popular model train scales available include HO scale, N scale, O scale, and G scale.
- Learning to Use A Track Template
- Model Railroad Bench Tops Made Easy with Foam
- How to Transfer A Track Plan from Paper to Model Railroad Benchwork
- Tracklaying: Adhesives, Nails, Or Spikes?
- How to Cut and Fit Sectional and Flextrack
- Quick and Easy Flextrack
- Banish Derailments on Your Model Railroad
- Tune Up Turnouts
- How to Wire A Layout For two-train Operation
- An Introduction to Track Wiring Basics
A track-planning template, like the green HO scale one in the photo above, helps you transform your sketchy ideas into a buildable track plan. See article.
In many situations, extruded-foam insulation board is a viable alternative for bench tops built on either flat surfaces or open grids. With proper support, the rigid foam can easily hold anything a modeler may want on a layout. See article.
If you’ve never done this before, the first thing you’ll probably learn is that – regardless of how carefully you’ve measured – track will almost always take up more room on the layout than it did on paper. It is important to take your time and be precise, as any miscalculation will hinder tracklaying. See article.
Track and roadbed can be fastened to foam insulation board with construction adhesives made for use with the foamboard. See article.
Cutting rail is a common activity that becomes important as soon as anyone begins building a model railroad. Small layouts built with sectional track generally fit together pretty well, but when flextrack is used, it’s often necessary to trim the rail ends to fit. See article.
Gluing flextrack to plywood or other surfaces is nothing new. But laying track with DAP’s All Purpose Adhesive Caulk is – and in my opinion a technique far superior to traditional tracklaying methods. See article.
Every rail joint must be carefully aligned, properly fitted, and level. Sight along the rail to check the alignment through the rail joiner. After the track is spiked down, use a fine file to smooth the top and inside corner of the rail joint until you can slide a fingernail across it. See article.
Many modelers build their layouts with commercial turnouts with the expectation that these components are ready to install. However, building my HO Ohio Southern has convinced me that most commercial turnouts are really “ready to finish.” They may need a little tune-up to ensure smooth performance and reliable operation. See article.
The initial goal of a new model railroader flush with locomotives, track, and rolling stock is to operate two trains on his layout at the same time, each with independent speed and direction control. This milepost can be reached with cab-control wiring. With two direct- current power packs, single-pole double-throw toggle switches, and hardware-sto...
There is probably no other aspect of our hobby that creates more anxiety and confusion for newcomers than wiring. When you’re starting at absolute ground zero on the learning curve it can be daunting at times. However, at the most basic level, what we’re trying to do is get electricity from a power source to the rails so our trains will run. See ar...
Mar 20, 2024 · This beginner’s guide will help you dig deeper into the hobby and provide useful resources for your first layout. in this article, we’ll cover: How to choose the scale and era to model. How to plan a model railroading layout. How to pick the right supplies for your layout. How to build a train table.
Jun 29, 2021 · To build a model railroad, start by making a list of what can and can’t be changed, like the size of the room, your budget, and the type of trains and equipment you’re using. Next, choose a theme, including the railroad’s purpose and setting, since these factors will influence your planning.
- 255.1K
