Starting a new smaller layout

Chartiers

Still plays with trains
Hi Guys,
Just starting my third n scale layout. I had a garage size and then a room size layout before downsizing in space and cost to the current one. Like previous layouts, it will focus on the PRR and try to represent the Chartiers Branch which was just south of Pittsburgh. Jim
 

Chartiers

Still plays with trains
This is the plan:
plan.jpg
 

Chartiers

Still plays with trains
I tried without success to post some pictures here. Not sure what I'm doing wrong, but the pictures are on my web site.
 

bigsteel

Call me Mr.Tinkertrain
i checked out your website,looks like you got some good progress goin for ya.great trackplan and if you want to learn how to post pics check this out the tutorial on posting pics.I'm not sure if there up and running due to the upgrade but it wont hurt to try :thumb: good luck --josh
 
Switch Throw

Hi,
Looks great! I use custom line switches on my layout as well, but I use Caboose Industries ground throws. I would be interested in seeing an alternative to them, especially one that has electrical contacts.

Can you post more pictures and details about how you are constructing your switch throws?

Thanks
-Mark
 

Chartiers

Still plays with trains
Thanks.
The Custom line of turnouts need something to hold the points against the stock rail. A switch machine or Caboose throw will work, but I wanted to try something small and cheap since they will be used on turnouts that are within easy reach. I think I found what I’m going to use but have only tried it on the bench. The test will come next week when I lay the turnouts on the front of the layout and insert the slide switches. I’ll take some pictures then but I don’t know how close I can get with my cheap digital camera.

Basically they are SPDT mini slide switches that are pretty small. I wish the throw was black instead of white but I think a little black or brown paint will take care of that. I plan to add a small cork roadbed pad where the switch is to be placed. When the glue on the cork is dry, I’ve made a template out of brass that will be used to make the cutout for the switch in the cork. It’s a form fit so I think just a touch of glue on the switch side will be all that’s needed to keep it in place. I’m trying different widths of wire to run from a hole in the slide switch to the throwbar.

I should have some pictures on my site next week and let you know how it went.
 

berraf

Member
The new layout looks great!
Personally I love creeks with many bridges and you planned for four. That's good :)
Glad you are on your way with the styrofoam and the roadbed. Soon there'll be some tracks too. I'm certain :thumb:
 

Chartiers

Still plays with trains
Thanks BerraF. The track is done except for one siding in the back. I just finished the wiring for the track and turnouts to a small control panel. Next will be the slide switches for the Atlas Custom turnouts. Good feeling to be able to move trains again...
wiredone.jpg
 

jesso

Member
I like it, even in temp paper you have a very nice looking control panel. Can't wait to see how it all progresses.
 

Chartiers

Still plays with trains
I really like doing scenery when the time comes. Starting a layout this time of year with yard work, house painting, and the wife's endless todo list is not the smartest thing I've ever done, but I'll take what I can get.
 

bigsteel

Call me Mr.Tinkertrain
looks like great progress there jim :thumb:,i still have yet to get ANYTHING started on my layout :mrgreen:.cant wait to see'er finished.--josh
 

CAS

Member
Real nice progress there Jim. I wish i could be that productive on my layout.
Is the water done yet? When doing the water, will it be done in sections, or do you need to mix enough solution for the whole thing?

CAS
 

Chartiers

Still plays with trains
Thanks for the nice comments guys.

No, the water is not done yet. What you see is just black paint down the middle of the creek for now. The creek bed when finished will contain a blend of black, blue/green, brown and tan colors. I'm currently working on the fasica which also provides a dam for the water at the three locations where it comes to the edge of the layout.

I'm planning to pour the entire creek at one time with Envirotex. I may do a second pour after the first cures, if it looks like a total depth of 1/4" would be the thing to do. I used Envirotex on the old E&A layout and it worked out fine.
 

jesso

Member
Looks really good! :thumb:
Did you put in the bridge on the other side of the hill that is hidden in the picture?
I really like your control panel! That is a great idea to have it go in and out.
 
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