N scale throughout the world is 1/160, but in Japan it is 1/150. All Japanese N scale trains run on tracks with 9 mm spacing between the rails, be it the Shinkansens, which run on the standard gauge of 1,435 mm or the regular trains, which are actually narrow gauge trains, running on 1,067 mm or 3´6" track.
To make things worse, in UK N scale is 1/144.
Confusing?
Kevin,
I did something like what you are proposing for my most recent N scale layout, which had to fit atop two Ethan Allen modular base units in my summer condo. One module is 30" long and the other is 40" long. They are only 19" deep. It’s the Cha-Cha Chesapeake Industrial RR.
My first module was a simple switching puzzle that combined a version of Inglenook Yards with the classic Timesaver. I call it a “TimeNook” and had a lot of fun with it. It measured only 12" x 36" and fit on a stair tread board from Lowes. Here’s the schematic:
The second phase filled the entire 19" x 70" space on top of the two base units. I used Liquid Nails to laminate 2" thick building foam with Homasote and got a very strong, lightweight (about 3 pounds) structure for the track base. I made it in two sections, one to fit each base unit. This is the layout right now:
As the Ginsu Knife ads say, “But wait! That’s not all.” We just bought a larger house and I’m expanding the layout to look like this with another module to add onto the end. It will be 19" x 96". The operating possibilities are extensive, with lots of industries and point-to-point or continuous running. There’s not much space for scenery and the buildings are background kits, but I like the crowded urban landscape:
I hope the image files come through OK, as they’re shared files on my MobileMe account. If not, can somebody tell me how to post them better?
Tom
I have been an N-scaler since 1977 ! Currently building the Port Morris & Western (free-lanced) empire about 400 sq ft. A Few points (standards) to consider: 1. convert all rolling stock to MICRO TRAINS Couplers - the rapido type couplers are a complete failure - cannot back up with them in use ! 2. Add WEIGHT to all your cars as per NMRA (National Model RR Assoc) standards. Most cars off the shelf are 50 to 75 % under weight . These 2 points will improve your operation immensely. 3. Invest in a DCC system for operation - fun, powerful and makes wiring the layout - even a small one - much easier !!. 4. Be extra CAREFUL when laying your track – no kinks in the curves, use a ruler for the straight sections and most of all - check you joints 3 times to make sure you have not missed and slid one rail on top of the rail joiner causeing a ‘step up’ to the next rail – this is very easy to miss esprecially if your eyesight is not perfect - trust me - I know from experience !!! N- scale track is a little tricky due to its small size - but laying good track is certainly doable - just be careful about checking your work as you go. 5. Use the braodest curves possible and if you can , keep your grades to less than 2% - 0.5 to 1.5% is pretty good. Follow these points and you should have lots of fun building your N scale empire and your project should be a positive effect on your life !
Alot of great suggestions so far. I dont think im gonna go with the n trak. Im a bigger fan of atlas snap/flex track and placing my own roadbed/ballast.
Bolaro, I like the designs that your working with. Might be some pics a use for reference.
WM, Im more of a freelancer. I dont like to go off a layout design completely. I usually take a few aspects of one or more. Im a big fan of the CSX line because it extends all the way back to B&O, C&O, and Chessie system.
Maddog, I appreciate the module specs. Im most likely gonna go that route.
I had and oval out and running one of my good engines the other day and im definetly gonna make the switch. Im just having a hard time letting go of my HO stockpile. Drawers full of track, 2 2x4 sheets with what I had started, several engines and cars, along with buildings. I was leaning on selling it to fund my switch but I find it difficult to part with it.
Thanks for the suggestions, keep them coming.
How about T-Trak modules? Where can I find more information on these. Thanks.
Sent you a message about this BP. For any others that want it heres the sites
http://ttrak.org
http://ntrak.org
I actually came across a pamplet on ttrak that I picked up at the last show I was at. I had forgot how small the module is 8 1/4 x 306mm(12in). Im thinking of using that as a starting point, maybe making the module a little bigger. I will probably just use that as a reference and still use snap/flex track and the old fashioned way of doing modules and leaving a few inches on each end for the connecting track. Heres a curious question, and if it requires another thread then let me know.
Have any of you out there used HO building on N scale layouts? And if so how do they look? Silly or not to bad?
Just a few comments to T-Trak.
T-Trak is a simple modular system, based on the use of Kato Unitrack. Connection between the modules solely relies on Kato´s Unijoiner system, there are no other means to link the modules. Using a different track would require other means of joining the modules, making the system much more complex.
T-Trak modules require some sort of table to support them, which is not part of the system.
T-Trak is a good choice for people who have limitations in space and funds - a straight T-Trak module will cost you about $ 10 and can easily be stored on a shelf when not in use.
T-Trak layouts are somewhat limited when it comes to operation. Designing a multi-track yard is impossible within the size limits of a module.
Still, I will be going down that route. I am finishing the design for a desktop layout, which is basically a roundy-rounder with a passing siding (station) and some industry spurs. It is not going to be my dream layout, but it gets me back into model railroading in a time, when I don´t have the space and the funds for a more permanent layout.
KevinOxford - HO scale buildings on a N scale layout??? That´s a no-no, unless you want your layout look like the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway in the UK.
I also started N-scale in the 70`s and can assure you that things have improved significantly. All the points raised in paying special attention to car weights , track laying etc. will make your experience more rewarding and the newer landscape materials will also add to your enjoyment and layout success. I personally have a freelance layout based on the operations of Canadian Pacific in Western Canada so n-scale lends itself well with limited space requirements and more operational opportunities. I have not attempted DCC at this point but intend to in the near future.I think that it will be very useful in yard situations. Prior to my jump to n-scale I had a 4X8 HO layout which I enjoyed a great deal but limited space and greater operational possibilities made my decision clear. Improved equipment has certainly inhanced the experience and the computer information hiway can certainly help you !