The New Layout

Classic Toy Trains Forum
1

After a lot of brainstorming Ive come to the conclusion that I dont have the room for a big permanent layout at this time. Instead Im going to build a smaller, sectional layout. Im planning a 6x10 foot postwar style layout that will divide into 3 sections (3.3 x 6 feet) so it can be moved if needed.

First, a few things I learned from the old layout:

  1. As stated above, a sectional layout is better than a permanent one.

  2. Size isnt as important as quality. I dont have enough accessories to cover a layout with 100 foot mainlines in 2 rooms.

  3. Put costs into consideration before starting a layout. I ran out of spare cash way to often to keep progress going… and unlike the government, I dont have the liberty of borrowing from social security. [oX)]

  4. I love postwar and dealer display layouts, but tried to go to far to the model railroading side on the last layout. Now Im building the layout that fits me most.

  5. Dont take shortcuts when building benchwork. My new Benchwork will be real sturdy because the old layout’s benchwork didnt cut it and this one is going to be on legs, not a shelf.

  6. If you have any questions on wiring, ask bob nelson.

Finally, heres a few things a wanted in the new layout. Ill have a trackplan and other info in a few more days.

  1. The ability to run 2 trains or have one train be able to take alternate loops.

  2. A track for the #50 gang car

  3. Some form of a frieght yard, a crossover, and sidings that all have a purpose (each siding has an accessory)

  4. Dealer Display Layout scenery with mountains, tunnels, billboards, and lots of lights and action. Perfect with my postwar trains and accessories.

  5. A postwar backround… maybe an old catalog cover?

2

Your plan sounds very solid. I had a similar situation in that I had limited space. I used a layout from an American Flyer flyer for my basic plan.

Keep us posted with progress pics!

Jim

3

Right now, I’m planning on almost the exact same thing! Sturdy benchwork, postwar style scenery, and I want to run 3 trains at a time. I’m hoping I can make it look like a piece of furniture that matches the rest of the trim in the house, with trains running on top. As much as I love making realistic scenery, I’m thinking grass mat with an accessory about every 5 inches, and completely modular. I’m also going to organize the wiring. I’m also going to organize the wiring, I’m also going to organize the wiring… Probably won’t, but I wish I would.

4

Jim, your style layout is similar to what Im looking to accomplish. I love the old catalog picture. Lionel should have more father son pictures in the catalogs and advertisements. Gives ya a nice warm feeling inside (which usually ends in a trip to the LHS)

You got the right idea mpz. Accessories are the key to any good postwar layout IMHO. PW accessories are louder than the modern ones and ones like the 364 and 397 give off that nice ozone smell.

5

Here are a couple flat track plans I had messed around with at some time in the past…Its a 6x11.5. Build the mountains over the crossings.

2 trains and plenty of room for accessories. Pretty long train can be run in figure 8 mode with the use of the crossings.

Two Trains running on separate loops

Busier version with 3 trains.

Have fun!

Wes