Scratch Built Crossing

April 27, 2009

Here is something really interesting. Subhash is a keen model railroading enthusiast from India, but the problem is train supplies are expensive and hard to get. So, Subhash not only manufactures his own rolling stock, he also builds his own track.

When you think about it, most of us would never dream of scratch building track, let alone a locomotive. We simply go out and buy it. So, Subhash is to be congratulated for his efforts and persistence. He is an inspiration to us all!

Subhash tells me his whole train layout is scratch built including scratch built tracks and crossings. He has made dies for sleepers, and aluminium strips for tracks. Subhash admits it is difficult as he has to search hard to get the raw materials.

Subhash builds to TT scale because he says you get more space work in TT than HO.

For the tracks Subhash has used Aluminum sheets 4ft x 8ft, gauge 1mm, trimmed in 3mm height. He creates rails of 3mm x 8ft. He has also made a die for sleepers for HO & TT now he can make as many sections of track as he wants.

Subhash uses normal tools as he doesn’t have any high end tools. He just uses whatever tools he has available at home. He says if you have diagrams the track is easy to build. And, the important thing is; the track and the trains work!

Subhash has two locos and some passenger carriages, different kind of wagons, a caboose, and two suburban EMU trains and all are scratch built. I’m sure you’ll agree they look very authentic.

I’m sure Subhash would welcome your comments and questions. Click on the green comments link, register and then add your feedback.