[:$]]I have a N scale layout I’m getting ready to build BUT, I don’t know where to start. I have a 4x6 and a 26x5’ attachment. I want to make the attachment a big yard. But where to start I have roadbed (kork) and I’m getting ready to get some flex track. I have a DD-40AX that has to run, she like wide turns.
here are some older forum threads that may help you get started:
https://www.google.com/#q=site:cs.trains.com+getting+started+newbie
Welcome to the forums.
Don’t be araid of goof ups, they are a method of learning, we’ve all done them and sometimes they turn out better than what we had originally planned.
If you haven’t done much reading on getting started, there are books by our host that will give you some good ideas.
Getting a train running is the best way to stay interested in the hobby. First, think about what you want your trains to do: continuous running, point to point, switching. Location: mountains, plains, city. Era: early, transition or modern (with your loco, I’d say you were thinking modern). Then, what industries, businesses and customers do you want to serve. With those basic thoughts look at track plans and choose one that will fit your space and desires. Don’t think you have to follow it exactly as printed (some have only been drawn up and can present problems if you try to follow exactly). Modifying them is common pratice (that’s where I am at the moment).
There are also good books available on the various aspects of layout building you will face as you go along. Read, do and come back here and ask questions. There are many folks willing to share their knowledge. One thing to remember is there are often several ways to do something. Some folks will swear by one method, others will swear at it. None are necessarily right or wrong, it’s what works best for you. There will be places on your layout that one may work better than another. Don’t be afraid to experiment to see what works best for you.
Have fun,
Richard
Hi and [#welcome]
No matter how you slice it, a first layout will be a learning experience, and thusly will likely have faults as well as some successes.
FOr Nscale, 4x6 doesn’t sound so bad, but keep in mind your “reach range”. If you need to reach the center {for scenery making or derailments} can you actively easily reach that center on the 4 foot deep side? Many can only reach about 16"-18" which is a little short of the center at 24". ALso, if you make the 25 ’ wide attachment ALL yard, will you again be able to reach the far side tracks? If you can walk all the way aorund the layout, you may be fine.
Also, Roadbed is great, sounds like you have made up your mind there on cork, and sheet cork can work under switches and in the yard area if you like. but what about track? You say you are 'about to". Have you made up your mind on the supplier? Flex track is kind of an indication, and I would personally NOT recommend the Bachmann EZ track as it has very fussy switches and they need LOTS of adjustments {we tried it in N scale}. Atlas is gettin hard to come by, have you taken that into consideration? Many like Kato track for N scale, though I have no experience with it.
Yes, your loco will love wider curves. Great that you thought ahead for that. But will 6 foot be long enough for you? If you wnat to run long deepwell intermodal cars the 6 foot may not be 'long enough".
Have you decided on DC with electrical blocks or DCC with simpler wiring? I know the Bachmann DD-40AX does come in a DCC model.
Also, have you considered the “module type” layout for an “around the walls"layout? It could give you more space in the long run, and give you your broad curves and easy 16-18” reach.
There are plenty of track plans for 4x6’ layouts, you should find one you like if you don’t want to plan your own. Search the net.
Also, READ READ READ. That is a suggestion already menti
I have to echo what Richard said. Don’t be afraid of goof-ups; that’s how we learn. I once made a mountain that had a removeable top. I made it with a cardboard lattice method, then covered it with plaster. It LOOKED great, but weighed close to 30 lbs; made for an awkward removal and installation. I replaced it with a mountain made with pink insulation foam; BIG difference in weight!!
Tongue-in-cheek response: "your “fist” layout? “kork” ??? Check your spelling before posting- or immediately edit when you see a word error- that posting title is a bit “misleading”[:P].
Cedarwoodron
I’m sorry for the spelling mess up. I will work on that. I just need help on where to start with my first N-scale lay out.
Don’t worry about your spelling, we all know what you meant. Read and google any questions you have, every one here will help and guide you, don’t worry about making a mistake in your layout. We have all made mistakes. Good luck.
If this truly is your first layout ever, you might want to learn on something smaller. I tried to start on a larger layout and was quickly overwhelmed. I am now building a simple 28"x48" layout–an oval with a couple of turnouts. It is much more managable the the mistakes are not as severe. Just a thought.
Tatertrainbuff,
You have been given some helpful tips already, but what is sometimes overlooked by a lot of people, is just a click away. The BLACK bar at the top of this thread, labled, Get Started, click on that and things will be explained, on bench work, track, wiring and video’s, also terminolgy used.
Have Fun!
Frank
Ten days since the one and only post by the OP. Not a good sign. Must be Spring Break !
Rich
Rich, some of them may not know to post updates, thank-yous, or ask for additional advice in the thread.
Others may get discouraged after someone lambasts them over spelling or grammar, like above.
Others may have posted “in the moment” and haven’t yet gotten back to “the moment”.
Others may just not want to post further as are SHy.
Sometime we, as a community, often discourage newbies as we expect them to be a ‘professional modeler’ the moment they sign on to MRRing. {Notice I am not naming names as to who we refers to!}
SO, cut the guy some slack.
[8-|]
Why?
It has been 10 days.
Rich
So?
Would 10 days more make any difference?
If/when he feels like posting again, or has the time to do so, he will.
What do you expect him to say?
I noticed except your scathing post here lambasting him for not “posting enough to your liking” that YOU have offered him nothing to post an answer to.
Interesting, very interesting.
And you wonder why they don’t come back.
[8-|]
galaxy, you need to calm down.
My initial reply to this thread was not even addressed to the OP.
I merely pointed out that we had not heard back from the OP in 10 days.
Nothing more.
Rich