I am a novice model railroader and have built your average flat 4x8 layout. I want to move on to something bigger and better with grades and reverse loops and double-track mainline(I love running 2 or more trains at once). So I’ve gone through Atlas’ “Fantastic Layouts” and I’ve decided on attempting one of the layouts from
Ho-23 to Ho 36. I have my eye set on number 23 (Folded Dogbone with Branch) and was just wondering if anyone has either built the Ho-23 or any of the other more complex Atlas Layouts(HO-24-36). As well if anyone can send me some pictures of their “Fantastic Layouts” or even their Own track plans for their design…It would be GREATLY appreciated as I need some ideas!!! If anyaone is familiar with HO-23 any TIPS or ADVICE on this layout would be great.
BTW: Also HO-23 is a 5&1/2 by 8 footer so any ideas on how I could build the base for the layout…as the Lumber Yard does not carry plywood or Rigid Foam in this size.
get a copy of the KALMBACH book “BUILDING MODELL RAILROAD BENCHWORK”. It’s exellent, as are ALL their model railroad books! You can buy them online at www.kalmbachbooks.com or at a hobby shop.
After you purchased the books earlier quoted,get out your Rule,Electric tools and have fun.Purchase your 4’x8’ sheets of plywood and cut to fit your layout needs,you will find that you will become a carpenter,architeural engineer,electrician and many other work related positions.Good luck with your project.And remember to have fun.
About your BTW: You need to make two sections that together will get you your 5-1/2 X 8 size, for example one 4 X 8 piece and one 1-1/2 X 8 piece. Use some the leftover plywood from the second piece to make a splice to join the two plywood peices together. Also, probably the joints in the plywood and in the foam should not be at the same place, easy enough to do.