avoid layout building burnout

[davido]

recently, i have read several posts from members having a difficult time getting started on a layout. some have been trying for over a year.

i have been there!

if others have an idea please post your ideas!

here is what kept me going (n scale) the temporary g shape track plan:

get a piece of 2' x 4' or even better 3' x 4' 3/4" MDF, what ever you can leave in place to run trains on.

draw out an oval with one siding to the outside along the length and on side.

cork roadbed is cheap glue down the cork. on this nail (do not glue) your flex track and turnout. run the track wire right on top.

once done you can modify this thing a hundred ways. put a 2'x3' on top of a 3'x4' and have the siding depart on a grade. you don't even have to support the track on the grade.

even if you mess up big time you can have trains running again in no time. when your a;; done on this practice layout you can use the track and turnout on the real thing.

in the mean time come home turn on the power supply and watch yoour train run while building the real thing.


respectfully

david

[Pete Nolan]

David,

I have a big layout that I've been working on since Sept 2002. It's fancy with DCC and bridges and ships.

I also have a 2 x 4 layout on my desk, which can be either DC or DCC. Many times I have more fun on my little loop than I have on the big layout!

[Espeeman]

David,

I am working on a 2' x 4' N-Scale layout while I'm deciding what to do with the rest of the room. I think you have found the key, have SOMETHING to run trains on! I'm trying to work the 2x4 into the room sized layout (similar to what John Allen did with his Gorre & Daphetid, although not nearly as artistic graemlins/220.gif ). In the mean time, I have a "canvas" to work out ideas, improve skills, and run trains.

[BALOU LINE]

I don't know what I would do without my little double loop race track. Not only does it give me a spot to run trains, but I can break in new engines as well. It was a great place to exsperiment with all sorts of building techniques and materials on all elements of layout construction. Considering my big layout may not have continuous running for years I don't know what I'd do without my racetrack.

[BoxcabE50]

What I wish was still in my possession, is a styrofoam store bought layout base. It had a loop that crossed over itself. And I'd added a spur. Glue on some scenery, and slide it under any bed, in it's box, when not in use.... Can't recall who was the manufacturer. It saw a lot of use for break in, and simple fun.

:D

Boxcab E50

[jimbeer]

Boxcab,

I had that about 30 years ago! I think it was sold by Lifelike. Came with 3 houses and a church, which i still have but aren't going on my new layout. I incorporated that foam piece into my first layout. Yep, lots of fun! Actually, I've seen them on e-bay now and then, but don't remember for how much.

[davido]

a lot of good testimonies. since the hurricane my layout has been disassabled. i can't even get to my little practice layout now.

but there is a building kit with some paint and ground foam on a tv tray in front of my recliner.

think i will build a 12"X30" diorama to go on the bookcase behind my desk at work. yep, a little country/station with a few shacks and plenty of junk.

couple of skeleton log cars on a siding and a
4-4-0 with some overton cars.

david

[Grey One]

Great! Thanks a lot guys. Now I'm thinking about a 3rd! layout . A nice little 2' x 3' "work bench / layout". Maybe I can hang a 1' x 4' yard off of it. hamm, and then a ....
// Runs, grabs layout builders support line.
Help, Help, I have cravings, I can't control mys....

Seriously. I _think_ I'm going to do it.