Construction
Everything on model trains, model railroads, model railways, locomotives, model train layouts, scenery, wiring, DCC and more. Enjoy the world's best hobby... model railroading!
Fascia Material
Anthony posted this question:
“The edge of my 4ftx8ft layout is untidy so I’ve decided to add a facia of some kind to smarten it up. What material would you recommend I use without breaking the bank?”
Send in your question for publication (use the ASK A QUESTION link below), or add an answer/suggestion (use the COMMENTS link below).
Bachmann Track Base Firmness
Lakshmi models HO scale and asks:
“I have set up my tracks on a strengthened glass platform (very firm and not soft). Will there be a problem of bounce and derailment, due to the firmness of the base?”
Pre-Made Benchwork
Mark posts:
“Carpentry is not my forte, and wondered if the pre-made fabricated benchwork I’ve seen sold is any good?”
Contribute your thoughts below.
Wiring For DCC
Nick is planning an HO layout and asks:
“I am starting a new layout after a 25-year absence from the hobby. I am excited to embrace some of the newer updated equipment and model railroading methods used today. I have already purchased a lot of new tracks to replace all of the old brass tracks from the ’70s. My plan moving forward is to construct my new layout using DCC. Is it good practice to do so 100% or is there a reason why I should still wire the layout in DC first? I only have one (1) good loco left from the ’70s. In addition, is it recommended that I install all the switches and turnouts in DCC?
Your thoughts please?”
Please add your comments below to assist Nick.
If you would like to have a question published, you can submit it to the Blog Moderator through the ASK A QUESTION link below. If you have a photo to publish, then please inform the Blog Moderator.
Track Attached to Plywood or Cork?
Clint writes:
“Before attaching my track directly to ply should I lay down cork first? What should I use – track tacks/nails, or glue what type?”
Add your comments below. And, remember you can have your question published too. See the ASK A QUESTION link below.
N-Scale Modular Model Railroading – The Options
If you are interested in working with N scale modules, then I want to refer you to an article you will find informative. It discusses the options starting with N-Trak which dates back to the early 1970s and since then there have been some changes to the original system. It then goes on to talk about One-Trak which is basically an offshoot of N-Trak standards utilizing the same size modules and electrical wiring setups. T-Trak is a simple module system using Kato sectional Unitrak. The difference in Modutrak is also discussed in this article on N-scale modular techniques. The article then explains how Free-MoN is different again. Finally, the article touches on BendTrak which has a somewhat similar physical standard to N-Trak with some differences. Worth a read if you are interested. Here is the link N-Scale Modular Model Railroading
Efficient Use Of Space
Paul from the UK sent in this great photo and writes:
“Thank you for making me aware of the support that is out there! I’m slowly getting there, all this has been built out of scrap wood!”
N Scale Modules
Rodney asks:
“I have been trying to find the plans for an N scale module layout. I am looking for information on building four corners and individual modules for expansion. Any help would be greatly appreciated.”
Rodney, the following resource includes 69 N scale plans and links to some other excellent modular construction resources. The pack offer also has a step-by-step ebook on modules titled “Confessions of a Mobile Layout Builder”. Recommended resource.
Hiding Joins Between Track Modules
Neil has started work on his HO railroad and posted his first question:
“I’ve built the first module on my planned 2ft x 12ft layout and have suddenly realized the problem of hiding the joins between each module. I hadn’t really given it much thought until now. I doubt I will need to move my layout much, but at some stage, I will most likely come up against the inevitable.
I’m interested in what others have done to disguise the joins between modules. Is it best to avoid a straight line join for separations between the modules… perhaps a bend, or jigsaw type join to make the lines between my modules less obvious? I know that would make the framework more complex, or should I just position scenery to disguise the joins? If so, any ideas? Also, any thoughts of correct procedure for accessories, track, signals and controls between modules? Much appreciate in advance.”
Is N Gauge Suitable for 76 Year Old Restricted to 6ft x 3ft Space?
Howard K asked:
“In my last home I had a big space for a layout and got about a quarter way through constructing a 12ft x 5ft HO layout. Unfortunately I got health issues and so we moved to a warmer climate and because I hadn’t spent much on trains etc I sold everything. That was 5 years ago. Now my health is much improved, but at 76 I don’t want to start a big new project, and don’t have the space. Maybe enough space for a 6ft x 3ft layout at a push. With the smaller space I have been thinking about maybe going N gauge instead, but wonder if it might be too fiddly for my shaky old hands and not so sharp eyes? Has anyone of my age got N gauge? What’s the general view on which way I should go. I do want an interest and want to get back into the hobby. Advice please.”
Add your comments to assist Howard, or use the ASK A QUESTION link to submit your own question for publication.
Construction a Drop Leaf Access For Middle of Layout
Mike models HO and asks the following question. Readers are welcome to post diagrams, or photos in the COMMENTS under Mike’s post:
“What is the best way to build a drop leaf for access to middle of layout? We will be running 2 tracks across about 2 foot span.”
Building a Display Case for Trains
Ed models HO and asks readers:
“I have a shelf to use for display case? What should I make it out of? I have about 10 foot shelf, and I will display a single train on the entire shelf length. It’s an H O Marklin peat train, Peat locomotive and peat wagons.”
Plywood or Foam Insulation Board?
New member to the Online Model Train Club Chris Peterson has this question for readers:
“Quick question – is foam insulating board better than using ply-wood? I will be building height on top using layers of extruded foam so I can carve into it. Is this the right way? I like that it’s lightweight. Is there any fire danger?”
If you want to submit a question to the Blog Moderator for publishing here, use one of the **ASK A QUESTION** links on this blog.
Richard Shares Photos of the Models he Constructed
Richard sent in these photos to share with readers and says:
“I mentioned I would send a few pictures, this is first shots of section before getting put on the layout, I still have some more details to do, but thought you might like to see these.
Yes, I cut the windows out and used non glare tape inside of houses. Because of space I had to hang a few near the edge of cliff and so with the texture sheet that came with the plans I made the decking, and cut wood to make the railings.”
Richard used these plans:
Sharp-eyed readers will note that Richard has cleverly adapted and extended a couple of the backdrop factory plans to suit his own personal requirements. He’s done a great job!
Setting Up a Layout Using Old Equipment
Richard is seeking advice from others:
“I am about to set up a layout and I have only old equipment that was bought in the 1970’s-1980’s and I am wondering if I will have any problem adding modern trains or electronics to an old equipment layout? I am going to start building soon. I have a room about 10 feet by 8 feet.”
Set Up Two Tier Layout
Lou has O gauge and asks:
“I’m using a 4 by 8 sheet of plywood. How do you set up a second tier. Thanks.”
Small space???
Downloaded Plans Constructed and Positioned on Layout Ready for Final Detailing
Rich W kindly sent in these photos of a couple of house plans he downloaded from the modelbuildings.org website
First photos of houses before final detailing. Photos courtesy Rich W.
Here’s what Rich had to say – “I mentioned I would send a few pictures. These is first shots of section before getting put on the layout. I still have some more details to do, but thought you might like to see these. Yes, I cut the windows out and used non glare tape inside the houses. Because of space I had to hang a few near the edge of cliff and so with the texture sheet I made the decking, and cut wood to make the railings. Thanks again.”
http://www.modelbuildings.org/scale-houses-8-house-models-to-make.html
Track Bedding Help
Kent lists his scales as HO and N and asks:
“I bought two 8 ft. H x 8 ft. W Spruce Pine Fir Dog-Ear Fence Panels for an eight foot split gate. I have two 8×4 panels. Is it too heavy to work with? Also what about pool table felt for bedding? Green felt for grass? Any thoughts please.”
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