The layout is from the book titled “N Scale Model Railroad That Grows” published by Kalmbach Books. This layout is small enough to fit the space that is available and large enough to learn new skills. If anybody can suggest another layout. I will be more than happy to look at the possibilties. I am planning to us DCC with under the layout switch machines. I need to know if there is any pitfalls that I should be aware of and what type of DCC equipment to purchase. The plan of this experience is to build the projects and apply the methods that I have read in Model Railroader Magazine.
Take a look at these -http://www.naisp.net/users/mfischer/m_train2.htm
If you have more room, Do a search for MRR’s Clinchfield in “N” It’s an interesting Coal field based layout. Dave
Take pbj’s advice and check out Mike Fishcer’s site.
I too have purchase this book and am planning on building the layout. Here’s what I have noticed after reading through the entire book. The first chapters are very detailed on laying out the track sections, however later in the book it only gives a part list, and these do not match the layout. I’ve tried laying out the plan using Atlas’ Track planner, RTS 5, (free from their web site) and it does not connect. I’ve also found that they substitute components, this is only mentioned in the text not in the part list. The number of electrical blocks vary from chapters. These is also a substitution of turnouts in the yard from manual to remote, again mentioned in the text. These are some potental pitfalls I’ve observed. I do like the idea of “phases” for the project. And the book does cover a wealth of topics. I wi***here was a final track plan with complete list of material, rather than piece-mealed.
I still think I’ll give it a whirl.