Nice going Chris. I know how much time you've spent getting that yard functional. Now onto the rest of the layout.
Doug, Here is a link. I used the single circuit blocks part number 7641K921, you can order the colors you wish. I also use the jumpers, end sections, and DIN 3 rail, part number 8961K15 . I just cut the din rail in 6" sections. They ship it in 3' pieces. McMaster-Carr Hope this helps. This method is working out really well for me for all phases of wiring this layout.
Guys, I have a new post on my blog, I welcome you to comment on my progress. I like how things are going. Your feedback is always appreciated.
Hutch I like the rock wall you are modeling where did you get the mold for it Thanks wendell p.s great job on the layout! Just starting on mine hope it comes out as good as yours
Looks good...you could turn that area into Natural Tunnel, VA. Rock formations there look just like that. Jamie
Wendell, These are just Woodland Scenics rock molds with any form of plaster I could find. Hydrocal is too hard to come by these days.
Hutch ,, Great job so far,,I love the neat wiring,,,I wonder if you can get a bulk discount on the terminal blocks. Did you use birch or blondewood? , for that section of backdrop. Seeing your progress, along with other people has me wanting to do some work on my pike,, I have two 7 turn helices waiting for me to lay cork and track. Adios, Wyatt
Yes, you can get a bulk discount at Automation Direct... they are .38 each there. That is paint grade birch on the back drop. Thanks for the comments.
Looks good Chris. Have fun filling in the voids in between the rock castings. I remember that well when I built the original JJJ&E. Take your time doing it. The final results will be worth the extra time taken here.
Hey I have been following your blog and forgot to post this when I saw you ran your first train: Jamie
Hey, New to Trainboard. First post, your layout is going to be awesome. I look forward to seeing updates on it. JSL
Thanks for the comments, I just upload a few more progress pictures on my blog. Check them out if you have time. The Appalachian Southern
Funny, I liked the way it looked yesterday, but I hate how it looks today. I might have to start over with this...
Just my 2-cents, but if you do start over, even somewhat, you might want to alternate the directions of the cast some more; some vertical, some horizontal. Or a different mold. At first, I really liked what you had, but as I studied it, my eye became drawn to the same pattern being repeated. You could also break it up, visually, with random foliage on the cliff face
Chris: Before you make any rash decisions, spray the mountain with a base wash of ochre and blue windshield wiper solution. Then hit it with a wash of black and blue windshield wiper solution. You can change some of the rock surfaces with some old dental instruments. On the "old" JJJ&E I used about 8 different types of rock molds. Some of them were repeating but I changed that by carving into the rock formations to change and vary them. A small amount of carving will make all the difference. You have to hit the white plaster with some washes which will give you a different perspective, instead of seeing a "mass of white plaster". Don't forget you have a lot of work to do with "seaming' the individual rock castings. Also adding foliage in the crevices will give you a much different perspective after you finish with the seams and washes.
