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60’s Marklin Train Layout Refurbishment

model train layout table

Aurélio asks readers for suggestions:

“I’m trying to refurbish a last 60’s Marklin train, a legacy from an uncle and that at its time, made my cousin’s and my youth quite happy. The layout suffered several “attacks” during all this years, as you can see from the attached photo. I will try to use the base and improve the layout and the details; let’s see if I’m able to do it. Suggestions appreciated.”

3 Responses to 60’s Marklin Train Layout Refurbishment

  • I am also in the process of starting up my 60’s Marklin train set. I am in the process of changing the control of the points, signals and lights to a computerized system so that I can automate the running of the trains. All Locos will stay as analog.

    Are you planning to upgrade the control of the layout or leave it as it is?

    I have found that running a bus under the tracks for the rails and center line on the M tracks with drop down feeders every 6 or so tracks makes the engines run smoother. The problem is normally at the point where the tracks join, there is not always a solid electrical connection and as the distance between the engine and the transformer increases it tends to jump forward or backwards as you try to reverse the engine.

    Louis

  • Darre English says:

    Wow! What a great project! I’m curious as to what elements you consider “unchangeable” and what you intend to change. Ie: those legs have got to stay! Will you change the scenery but keep all buildings, signs, train stock etc 60’s/mid-century era or older?

    • Aurelio says:

      For sure the legs will stay!!
      I’m just thinking to refurbish some elements that are not in good shape, like the little hill and the tunnel, and improve the layout, adding a little bit more of mountain landscape like the one in the photo.
      Besides, the control building nearby the bridge seams not in HO scale…
      Besides, one big challenge is to decide to keep this beautiful naïf layout, or move to a more consistent and realistic landscaping.

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