Layout resources needed: books, web, whatever!

Model Railroader Layouts and layout building
1

I want to design a layout, either HO (preferably) or N scale, but I’m at a bit of a loss as to where to start. I have a lot of ideas, but I want to approach this carefully. There is much more information, layout options, equipment, etc, etc, since I last built a layout 20 years ago.

Does anyone have any recommendations on good books on layout design, benchwork, and the other “core” ideas? What about websites?

Any recommended good sources for layout plans? What about layout design SOFTWARE? I see there are several packages… any recommendations?

I’m not sure what period I want to model, nor can I even figure out what lines ran what locos at what times! :smiley: Can anyone recommend a good book on locomotives of North America that covers who ran what and when?

Thats about it. I’m looking forward the replies I get to this posting. I believe the planning and research is going to be half the fun with this project!

  • Tim
2

Don’t buy 48 Top Notch Track Plans. Look at 101 track Plans, Classic Railroads you can Model, and Mid Size and Manageable Track Plans.

Track Software I use CadRail ok but could be better!!!

3

“Track Planing for Realistic Operations” by John Armstrong. Try the library then when you see that you can’t get along without it you can buy a copy.

http://www.sillub.com/

XtrkCad It is free however be sure you register it. There is a steep learning curve when you first use the program but when you reach the crest it is worth the effort.

Read everything you can get your hands on. Have fun.

4

Ideas for very small layouts that can stand alone, many ideas that can be incorporated into larger layouts too

http://carendt.com/

5

[#ditto] on the Track Planing for Realistic Operations by John Armstrong that bukwrm suggested. Iain Rice also has a nice book called Medium-sized and Managable Track Plans that is good. His layouts tend to really “flow”, as compared to some of the other authors. Definitely two worth looking at/picking up.

Kalmbach Publishing also puts out some other good books and references worth mentioning:

  • Basic Model Railroad Benchwork - Jeff Wilson

  • Basic Trackwork for Model Railroaders - Jeff Wilson

  • Maintaining & Repairing Your Scale Model Trains - Jim Volhard

  • The Model Railroader’s Guide to Locomotive Servicing Terminals - Marty McGuirk

  • DCC Made Easy - Lionel Strang

As far as layout software, Atlas has a FREE one called RTS that you can download off their web site. It can be a bit quirky to work with. X-Trk CAD is also a FREE program that a number of folks here on the forum have used and highly recommend.

For purchased software, 3DPlanit! and CADRail are two powerful programs that will render drawings in 3D. You should be able to pick them up for under $100 each.

Tom