2x8 HO Shelf (just something to tinker with until i can start the biggen')

theskunk Jul 11, 2009

  1. theskunk

    theskunk TrainBoard Member

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    Alrighty,

    I'm trying to spend as little as humanly possible on this just because the bank apparantly hates me, and hates all I love, too....

    I've the following inventory:

    HO Code 100 Flex Track (around 50 ft of the stuff)
    2x L #4 Peco's
    2x R #4 Peco's
    1x R #4 Atlas
    1x Small Y Atlas
    1 pair of L/R small radius curved
    1 R Medium Radius Curved.

    I'll post a picture momentarily of its current configuration to see what can be salvaged. I also have an atlas crossover, but it does not look prototypical. I'm trying to do this as cheaply as possible, track wise.

    -Rob
     
  2. theskunk

    theskunk TrainBoard Member

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  3. Dave Jones

    Dave Jones TrainBoard Supporter

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    Rob - The first four HO gauge layouts I built used code 100 track. You're no doubt aware that equals extremely heavy, mainline rail, not typically found on sidings and spurs.

    On my first layout (4' x 8') I sprayed the in-place track with a flat brown spray paint. After cleaning the rail tops, that code 100 looked a lot less shiny and somewhat smaller in size. Much more in keeping with what I was trying to model. Now, even using scale size (codes 83, 70, and 55), I spray paint all of it before putting it down.

    Another method I used (especially on spur tracks) was to "bury" the rail, ties and all in
    plaster. Then, using deep-flange trucks, screwdrivers and whatever else was handy, cleared out the flange ways. I currently have a 5-pound bags of SculptaMold (which sets much slower than plaster) and some code 70 and 55 rail that I will experiment with.

    And, if you design the trackwork properly, you'll be able to incoporate your switching layout into a future, larger layout. In any case - enjoy.
     
  4. StevenWoodwardNJ

    StevenWoodwardNJ TrainBoard Member

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  5. theskunk

    theskunk TrainBoard Member

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    Thanks for the replies:

    I'm aware that the code 100 track is rediculously sized, but this layout is going to be mainly for experimentation and for something to get me through the next year or so. I've been 'allowed' access to this entire bedroom once we unpack everything. Last time around, unpacking hadn't happened for 2 years. I'm not holding my breath. I'd like to experiment with scenery, and a few other DCC type things and the such. I still might rip up all the track and re-do with code 70/83 or the like, who knows!

    I do also plan to incorporate this into a much larger layout down the line, and more or less experiment with scenery and what not as i go.

    Regarding the track plans, I've been looking everywhere for his plans! His site at photopic used to be HUGE! its a shame its been lost for good...
     
  6. StevenWoodwardNJ

    StevenWoodwardNJ TrainBoard Member

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    I had fortunately saved a lot of his plans before the site went down. He does seem to be getting things back up and running.
     
  7. friscobob

    friscobob Staff Member

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    http://www.carendt.com/

    Another good site for micro layouts.

    As for code 100, it is easy to work with, relatively inexpensive, and available at most hobby shops. Ideal for experimenting with layouts.

    I agree with the idea of painting the rails and ties, if only for esthetic reasons.

    Now, you realize we expect progress reports and pictures of your work........... ;)
     
  8. theskunk

    theskunk TrainBoard Member

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    StevenWoodwardNJ:

    Where are you seeing signs of him getting things going again?

    Friscobob:

    I fully intend on providing lots of shots within this thread -- I have two considerations -- I cannot make loud noise in that room for a few days, as I've 3 kittens that just moved into my house and they have yet to leave their litter boxes! and secondly, I fly out of town tomorrow -- but I'll have my macbook in tow and xtrkcad along for the ride to help get a design down that I like.

    -Rob
     
  9. friscobob

    friscobob Staff Member

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    IIRC, Linda Sand designed a 1x8 trackplan in HO in an issue of Kalmbach's Model Railroad Design (can't remember the year). Includes runaround, interchange, switching, etc. WIdening that out to 2 feet wide would add an industry or two.

    Either way you go, have fun with the planning. :)
     
  10. poppy2201

    poppy2201 TrainBoard Member

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    This may be the one Bob is referring to. Hope it helps.
     
  11. theskunk

    theskunk TrainBoard Member

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    RMweb View topic - layout plans

    Found this forum, which seems absolutely amazing -- creating an account over there to request a plan and see how it works out!
     
  12. theskunk

    theskunk TrainBoard Member

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    Here's progress so far:

    [​IMG]
     
  13. bnsf_mp_30

    bnsf_mp_30 TrainBoard Member

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    Was that the papermill plan? Three industry tracks, switch lead, runaround, and an interchange track and dummy crossing. I almost built that but went 18 inches and modified a segment of another of her U-shaped plans for a shelf switcher. I might incorporate it into a HOG-like plan later.
     

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