How much does it cost to have somebody build a N Trak Module for you, when the person doesn't have wood building skills or just lazy. I'm in the same situation, lol.
The cost of having an Ntrak module built for you would depend on its size and complexity. It could range from around a hundred dollars for a POFF (plain old four footer) without scenery to you name it. Often Ntrakers want to surplus off their modules so you may be able to find one that is already made and has seen some use for a reasonable price. BTW: Building an Ntrak module is relatively easy and if one starts out with a POFF the necessary skills are acquired rather quickly.
TabascoTrain- Welcome aboard! Grant is correct on all counts. I was going to suggest the same ideas. Join an NTRAK club. get acquainted. See if anyone has a module to sell. Maybe someone can help you build that POFF. Also, wiring harnesses used to be available pre-made. May still be? NTRAK is great fun. An excellent place to hone skills, make friends, and more. I moved five years ago- I wish there were some people near to me. But there is nobody active. Can't even find an N scaler. So my 6 footer mountain module is just collecting dust these days. Boxcab E50
Are you wanting to participate in NTrak or do you want to use the modules for a home layout? If a home layout is what you seek, you should look at the plastic molded T-Trak modules from Shapemaster.
Here is a link to building a "POFF" by one of the members of our local HOTrak club. What goes on top is up to the owner, but the construction is all the same... http://www.railwaybob.com/Modules/ModuleConstruction/ModConstr01.htm Lots of good pictures, and really easy to follow step-by-step. Andrew
There's really not much to building a module. Most anyone can do it if they want to. If you can use a tape measure, a saw and a screwdriver you're pretty much good to go. A 2'x4' module would basically consist of 5 boards with a plywood or styrofoam top. Two 48" boards for the front and back, two 21" boards for the ends and one 21" board in the middle. That is, assuming you're using 2x4's for the module. Screw them together at the joints, stick the plywood or foam on top, throw some legs on it and you're good to go.
Hoss- Actually you don't need that center cross piece. I've built and used in shows, a bunch of NTRAK modules over the years. 4, 6, and 8 footers. None had it. The standard lumber is 1 by 4. Not 2 by4. using two bys could add a bit of weight.... Believe me, 1 bys are plenty strong. Boxcab E50
I've never built an N TRAK module so you'd probably no better than me. I was mainly speaking of how I would build....or have built....modules in general. I like using 2x4's because they hold screws better and on a 2' x 4' layout I'd have a board right smack dab in the middle. That's just me though.
Hoss- I believe you. And I recall seeing some photos you posted of some healthy framework you'd built for that new layout. As for holding screws, that's true. On an NTRAK module, you have corner glue blocks of 2 by 2. And can drive a screw into that. Once the top plywood is on, they come out quite sturdy. After shuffling mine to many shows, none ever developed a problem. Those guys who came up with the concept back in the mid-1970's, did an excellent job. And what a benefit to the hobby NTRAK has been! Boxcab E50
My N-Trak club is making an effort to encourage members to build new modules. A team of experienced members have volunteered their time to pre-build the module frame for the cost of the materials alone. They will even provide the rough electrical (for the additional cost of wires alone). That way, you get the module ready to place the track and scenery. I think it’s a great idea for those who do not have the confidence in their woodworking & electrical skills.
When I first saw the T-Trak moduals from Shapemaster I thought this would be great for an aroud the Christmas tree train. It could be set on the floor, and still be up out of harms way. Also a great way to do winter scenery without commiting your layout to perpetual winter. Too many ideas, not enought time or money!
You, too? Ha ha. They do have a nice looking product. I could easily be tempted. Where did I put that winning Lotto ticket.......... Boxcab E50
Looks like I did forget something, doesn't it. Thanks for adding the link Mike. As far as Christmas tree use goes, I would worry about the Shapemaster modules being too high and running afoul of the lower tree limbs.
