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Altering Train Layout Configuration
Patricia has an N scale layout and asks:
“I have my dad’s train set which I have had since before his death in 2002. It is on a 3’x8’piece of plywood with mountains and buildings. The central part of the display is a mining town and this takes most of the display. On one end is a very small New England town and the other end has a more modern residential area. The mountains are along the rear 8′ length. My dad was very creative and he made the mountains. The two residential area are slightly elevated over the mining area and have a Styrofoam base. Because of the space the train occupies, I have been trying to think of a way to make the display take less space, possibly by moving the two cities upward to a higher level, but this would entail redesigning the track. I have never actually worked on a model train set and I have no idea how to proceed. Also, there may be a time in the future when the train has to be moved again and I would like for it to be somewhat more portable. We had to rent a U-Haul to move it to my house. Any ideas”
4 Responses to Altering Train Layout Configuration
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If you’ve never worked on a model railroad before, I doubt that you will be able to modify the layout reliably. There is so much involved in your plan, you need to have an experienced model railroader come over and consult with you on the project.
You’re thinking he needs to gain some experience try building something simple?
Most of us start off with the simple stuff, then work up to the more challenging stuff. What he wants do to sounds like a challenge for experienced model railroaders. It is going to involve cutting up the existing layout, bench work, laying track with grades, wiring, scenery…He risks damaging much of the existing layout’s mountains etc. It would almost be easier to start from scratch. Laying out new track work involves consideration for radius curves, gradients, electrical connections, may be way too much for an un experienced modeler.
go to your local train hobby store. Talk to them. they most likely will be more that willing to help you. also you might want to get in touch with a local model railroad club. the hobby store should be able to put you in touch with one.
good luck with your new adventure. and enjoy the hobby