I have a approximately 30' x 12' layout of a fictitious branch line of the PRR Bellevue Sub. It has a single mainline in a folded dog bone that you can walk into the center of the layout. I just started a 1' x 10' extension on the front of the layout to service Pennsy's LCL loads and trailers on their TrucTrain flat cars. The time frame is the late 1940's-mid 1950's.
This is a picture of the extension area. Please pardon the mess. I have already added the extension wiring and cabling that is just hanging loose now. Today I bought the wood for the job and cut to size the 4 outside pieces.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170127_123711_zpsyheqv4dz.jpg&hash=e8d18e44ecc52e0f321579e3c041c3105ab80af2) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170127_123711_zpsyheqv4dz.jpg.html)
Curt
Welcome to the forum. It's great to see another layout in the expansion mode. I look forward to following your progress and seeing more of your layout.
Welcome to the forum Curt. :) 8) Have fun working on that extension.
Stay cool and run steam........ 8) 8)
Welcome to the forum Curt
Jim
Welcome!
Thank you for the warm welcome. Since I won't be doing any modeling today I have a picture of a coaling trestle I made a couple of years ago. Since this picture was taken I have added a heating oil component to the business. Of course the oil has to come in by tank car. The piers are actually "N" scale and worked perfectly for the project.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FLocomotive%2520Models%2F20151230_130755_zpsl329xws1.jpg&hash=56e335fface4ec2b870243dd60b3af21f63ff674) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Locomotive%20Models/20151230_130755_zpsl329xws1.jpg.html)
Welcome, Curt. Looks like a nice layout.
Jeff
Nice work Curt!
John
Welcome Curt.....keep those pictures coming. ;D
Thanks everyone. Today I had to go to plan B because of the rainy weather here. I had wanted to finish the framing but instead I installed the #5 PECO Insulfrog T/O (the size and type I use for everything). Before installation I solder jumpers and paint the rails (latex rust color). When I solder it in place, I only solder the far side of the joiner so I never solder the actual T/O.
After it was installed I checked it with a level and ran a loco back and forth without issue. This was also a test of my expansion of the electrical and DCC system.
Here is a picture of the complete Hillcrest Coal and Heating Oil facility.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170129_142725_zpsa8sceoyp.jpg&hash=5f60932662cb8e7604546795613ba61cbaa6c06e) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170129_142725_zpsa8sceoyp.jpg.html)`
Quote from: PRR Modeler on January 29, 2017, 03:15:31 PM
Thanks everyone. Today I had to go to plan B because of the rainy weather here. I had wanted to finish the framing but instead I installed the #5 PECO Insulfrog T/O (the size and type I use for everything). Before installation I solder jumpers and paint the rails (latex rust color). When I solder it in place, I only solder the far side of the joiner so I never solder the actual T/O.
After it was installed I checked it with a level and ran a loco back and forth without issue. This was also a test of my expansion of the electrical and DCC system.
Here is a picture of the complete Hillcrest Coal and Heating Oil facility.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170129_142725_zpsa8sceoyp.jpg&hash=5f60932662cb8e7604546795613ba61cbaa6c06e) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170129_142725_zpsa8sceoyp.jpg.html)`
Keep up the good work, and as they say a layout is never finished!! Keep the pictures coming.
Bill
Thanks Bill.
Curt
Looks good!
Thanks John.
I completed the framing today but need my son's help to mount it. Probably tomorrow. I will post a pic when it's mounted. Instead I a have a picture of a passenger station I put in last month (not normally a passenger guy).
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20161216_143303_zpsmiw58tew.jpg&hash=f93462fd3430338221fb975763fa2360d2969b42) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20161216_143303_zpsmiw58tew.jpg.html)
Curt,
Neat layout. Thanks for sharing it with us though the forum.
Tom ;D
Thanks Tom I appreciate it. Today I got the extension mounted on the front of the layout with son's help. I also mounted the main power buss. I stumbled on a different top than plywood. I found a wood plank in my garage that is 1"x12"x4' that fits almost perfectly, so instead of buying a sheet of plywood I will buy another plank and save some money.
Tomorrow after fitting the new wood I plan on mounting the electronics on the front of the extension. I should be able to use the old fascia on the extension.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170131_140605_zpskiuvcoz9.jpg&hash=abbb35a57d46c145390230f41926ceb164c5270b) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170131_140605_zpskiuvcoz9.jpg.html)
Nice work on that addition Curt. Have fun with it... :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam.................. 8) 8)
Thanks Bob, I appreciate that.
Progress report (no pictures): The table top is cut to size but not attached. I put up the new fascia today after deciding not to reuse the old stuff. The cutouts are made for the UP5 and UR92 and I have mounted a shelf in front for my base station. Tomorrow first thing I will paint it, then after it's dry I will mount everything.
I have ordered the 2 extra T/O's that I need and am waiting on them so I can take actual measurements for track and roadbed needed. Then off to the LHS for them.
Today I painted the fascia, installed the electronics and toggle switches and tested everything without issue. I also bundled and cleaned up the snake pit of wires and cabling.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170203_151310_zps7mutvopc.jpg&hash=54a0dfe8c29564e15e9199faaeba37645fa11c20) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170203_151310_zps7mutvopc.jpg.html)
Looks great Curt. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam........ 8) 8)
Thanks Bob.
Here are 2 TrucTrain flat cars that I built. They started out as Tichy 40' flat car kits. I built the ramps and other details. The trailer stand is from Details West. The sign is W/S rub off lettering. The trailers are from Mini Metals (I already had them). I made these a couple of months ago. A friend of mine (Jon Schubert) painted and decaled them for me since I am horrible at both them tasks.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20160929_133026_zpsq4utir0z.jpg&hash=26f5e28a62a7ebc610bf344d57d11dc2f37ad7d8) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20160929_133026_zpsq4utir0z.jpg.html)
Nicely done Curt. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam........ 8) 8)
Nice TOFC cars.
Jeff
Thanks Bob and Jeff. It is truly appreciated.
Nice layout Curt and welcome.
Thank you Jim.
The only thing I accomplished today was to attach the table top. I think I will receive the T/O's I'm waiting on tomorrow. After that I can finalize the track plan before purchasing track and roadbed.
This is my Roundhouse/Turn Table area. The Turn Table is the Walthers DCC 130 ft table.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170205_112951_zpsdtrlroh3.jpg&hash=d925df9a8ae5a05c5bbc89cc70f9a63ef7e81fd0) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170205_112951_zpsdtrlroh3.jpg.html)
Curt:
I really like your Turntable and Roundhouse module Well done. :) 8) I have a Walthers 130' turntable in N scale. This turntable works nicely.
Stay cool and run steam........ 8) 8)
Curt
I'm really enjoying the tour of your layout - thanks for sharing it with us. Love the roundhouse area.
Bob and John thank you for your kind words.
Today the 2 T/O's came in so I soldered jumpers on them and weathered them. I also finalized the track plan, tapped it out and painted the table top brown. I would post a picture but Photobucket is not loading today for some reason. The app works on my phone but not on the computer >:(. Maybe it's just as well since 1 of the tracks is crooked (I noticed after painting).
Tomorrow I am going to the LHS for flex track and road bed.
Everyone take care.
Finally Photobucket works.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170206_134350_zpsqjacqw6y.jpg&hash=7fa23e646dc6bce0ca4a04cfd907a5a889559ab1) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170206_134350_zpsqjacqw6y.jpg.html)
Looking forward to your laying down the track Curt. ;) ;D :)
Stay cool and run steam.......... 8) 8)
I installed the roadbed today. Although I model HO the road bed is N scale to give a lower profile. In the picture the roadbed looks crooked but it was measured and is even.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170207_140604_zpspfreg79k.jpg&hash=e3021fc10a3d34972bf8f354bff80bfe9b69f99d) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170207_140604_zpspfreg79k.jpg.html)
This is a print that a friend gave me Saturday. It's on the wall in the train room now.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170204_214803_zps3ufrewzj.jpg&hash=7d3d90fedc876d548c27f70ccade4d53ca73827b) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170204_214803_zps3ufrewzj.jpg.html)
Quote from: PRR Modeler on February 07, 2017, 03:41:10 PM
I installed the roadbed today. Although I model HO the road bed is N scale to give a lower profile. In the picture the roadbed looks crooked but it was measured and is even.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170207_140604_zpspfreg79k.jpg&hash=e3021fc10a3d34972bf8f354bff80bfe9b69f99d) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170207_140604_zpspfreg79k.jpg.html)
Looking good Curt. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam........... 8) 8)
Today I laid the track, soldered the connections and added feeders to the entrance ladder. I will add the rest of the feeders tomorrow most likely. I put in feeders on both sides of a T/O, and because of their length two sets of feeders will be placed past the T/O's on each track. There will be a total of 8 sets.
I ran a RS1 through the ladder and the 2 outside tracks without issue, but for some reason the loco dies when the rear truck leaves the end of the T/O. The feeders should fix that issue. ???
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170208_141823_zpsugt9ck1o.jpg&hash=5f793fc68d4f9e312833b4966bc872fae6180b07) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170208_141823_zpsugt9ck1o.jpg.html)
The track looks great Curt. Feeders are the key to successful electrical connections. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam....... 8) 8)
Today I hooked up the power feeders on the 3 tracks and started testing it by pushing and pulling 3 loaded gondolas without issue. I started drawing out the roads and platforms I need to build.
Laying things out using trucks, rail cars and crane I realized where I was planning on having a road for loading/unloading containers won't work. I was planning to do it between rails 2 & 3, but it will work on the left side of track 1. Because of it being there the 2 buildings and road that is already on the left side have to move and will most likely turn into trees. I haven't decided if the hobo scene will move or not (My wife really likes a hobo scene with a lighted fire).
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170209_135643_zpssh3zs5tb.jpg&hash=e4dfe03b444e649f333886333b66d75e6ebfb12c) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170209_135643_zpssh3zs5tb.jpg.html)
Nice work Curt. Now you're ready to roll. :) ;) 8) I also have a hobo scene on my layout.
Stay cool and run steam........ 8) 8)
Thanks Bob.
Today I weathered the tracks in the siding and cleaned them. I started working out how I'm going to do the two platforms. I discovered that 2 cheap wood yard sticks stacked on top of each other and scale "wood planks" on that, work great. This will be easier and cheaper than building the very long platforms with only scale wood. ;D
The picture doesn't show the weathering on the track. A friend on another forum asked about the truck traffic flow.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170210_122052_zpsktjgkvsn.jpg&hash=3c7b06b525bf610cec04566642c98067c87c59af) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170210_122052_zpsktjgkvsn.jpg.html)
Curt,
This addition to the layout will certainly give you a few more switching opportunities. Looking forward to seeing how you finish this area.
Tom ;D
The switching yard is starting to take shape Curt. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam.......... 8) 8)
Thanks Bob.
I was feeling under the weather for a couple of days, but today I put together one of the platforms and the glue is drying. Tomorrow I need to add some "planks" on the ends and make a ramp.
I will post a picture tomorrow.
Quote from: PRR Modeler on February 14, 2017, 02:37:35 PM
Thanks Bob.
I was feeling under the weather for a couple of days, but today I put together one of the platforms and the glue is drying. Tomorrow I need to add some "planks" on the ends and make a ramp.
I will post a picture tomorrow.
Looking forward to see the platforms Curt. Hope you're feeling better. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam.......... 8) 8)
Today I built the platform for track 3 along with a people ramp and a truck ramp. Of course it looks really bare without any detail parts on it, but those will have to wait.
Tomorrow most likely will be a non-MRR day as I have family commitments. Friday I should be able to finish the platform between track 1 & 2 after I buy some more scale wood. I have already cut about half of what I will need. I will also be using the same wood for the track crossings (the next project).
I have been experimenting to see how I can use code 83 rail for the crane wheels (to allow crane to move down rail cars), but have to do more thinking on it before I decide.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170215_141336_zps4ojytrtv.jpg&hash=9c9e00368bde46f127381b49144d9aed1dbd1660) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170215_141336_zps4ojytrtv.jpg.html)
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170215_141428_zpsrzvstwmj.jpg&hash=f40bbf53afc8d35a5000f11571bdf433fb71b88b) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170215_141428_zpsrzvstwmj.jpg.html)
Nice work Curt. :) 8) Its coming along nicely.
Stay cool and run steam......... 8) 8)
Thanks Bob.
Finished about half of the second platform before running out of modeling wood. It will probably be several days before I'm able to get anymore. I also did some maintenance on a couple of box cars that needed it.
No modeling tomorrow. Grandson has a karate program that we are going to, then the train club for awhile. Sunday I hope to get started on the crane rails it will (simulated) run on.
Curt
The layout is looking good. A modeler without strip wood - can't let that happen. ;)
My wife surprised me last night after supper. She said let's go get your modeling wood! What a great wife.
Today after grandson's karate program I cut the remaining boards and glued it together. Hopefully tomorrow I will be able to sand the edges and weather it.
Have fun Curt. :) :D ;)
Stay cool and run steam........ 8) 8)
Today I finished the second platform, painted the edges, weathered it and made the people ramp. To weather it I use a India ink and rubbing alcohol mixture. It seems to soak into the wood well giving it a worn, grimy look.
Tomorrow I hope to get started on the 3 railroad crossings.
Here is a pic of both platforms but it doesn't show the details very well
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Curt:
I really like what you've accomplished so far on that new addition. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam........ 8) 8)
Today I got started on the 3 grade crossings. I still need to fix the sides, and of course paint and weather them. The "roads" are made from a styrene "For Sale" sign.
I will probably work on the sides tomorrow.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170220_134837_zps9okrwt12.jpg&hash=d79ff29fc1caf65dab365a9cb56583e5dec6a134) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170220_134837_zps9okrwt12.jpg.html)
Looking good Curt. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam............ 8) 8)
Today I modified my track crossings. After looking at them last night I decided I wasn't happy with them. I glued the sides to the road portions and weathered the wood portions.
Tomorrow I plan on painting the road portions. I will start out with black then finish a second coat with W/S Asphalt.
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Right decision to change them Curt , this looks much better.
I like the changes Curt. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam................. 8) 8)
Thanks guys. I thought it was the right thing to do.
Today I gave the road 3 coats of paint. I also decided on the track rails I'm going to do for the crane. I got a old piece of flex track and cut out the middle section of ties (both rails have a small lengths of ties under them). I also painted 4 PRR style concrete bumpers for the ends of the crane tracks and painted a electrical supply box that will go next to the dwarf signal when it goes in.
Question: I'm not sure about putting white lines on the road I painted today...thoughts?
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Curt,
The roadway looks good. If this is a busy road across the tracks, I'd add the lines between the tracks but only on the pavements.
Also, if I may be so bold to make another suggestion. Your crossings between the tracks look good but they shouldn't be square on the ends. The railroads usually rounded these off. You are correct in that they extend beyond the roadway. Here is how I did some of mine.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-181016182646.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-181016182646.jpeg)
It still needs weathering.
Tom
Nice work Curt. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam........ 8) 8)
Thanks for the pointers. I will definitely take a look at wood crossings.
Today I glued down the crane rails and started putting down "asphalt ". I also now have a working concept of the container yard office layout.
Since I have weights on the crane rails while the glue dries I don't have a picture today. I will post one tomorrow.
Today I finished painting the asphalt in the track area. After that I put in fencing around the office area, built the office, lighted the office and put some cars in the parking lot. (not in the photo)
Today I also ordered almost $100 in detail parts for the project (of course with authorization from higher authority--the wife!).
I want to figure out some way to be able to slide the crane down the rails. Give me a couple of days and I will figure it out.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170224_115514_zpsznfloeih.jpg&hash=dbdaa90147ae715fed597c40332f6c57f6dd6b5b) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170224_115514_zpsznfloeih.jpg.html)
Your project for the addition really looks nice Curt. Great job. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam........ 8) 8)
Thanks Bob.
Today I pretty much finished the office area. I still need to add details and I'm going to put in a larger office. Also I put in some ground cover and fixed the ballast on the main I messed up (on purpose) when I was attaching the wood framing.
Tomorrow I hope to lightly (emphasis on lightly) ballast the yard leads.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170226_132847_zpsm6vsipbl.jpg&hash=112dda59d641f4273a112f9b47414b7c4060d381) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170226_132847_zpsm6vsipbl.jpg.html)
This is the sign I made for the office area.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170226_132414_zpsglwlc8q4.jpg&hash=8129b35a318cc060b972c0e8eb266bcdeab6b142) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170226_132414_zpsglwlc8q4.jpg.html)
Today I didn't have much time so all I did was ballast in between the rails on the 3 yard leads. More ballasting tomorrow of the approach track and 3 T/O's.
Quote from: PRR Modeler on February 26, 2017, 10:29:32 PM
Today I pretty much finished the office area. I still need to add details and I'm going to put in a larger office. Also I put in some ground cover and fixed the ballast on the main I messed up (on purpose) when I was attaching the wood framing.
Tomorrow I hope to lightly (emphasis on lightly) ballast the yard leads.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170226_132847_zpsm6vsipbl.jpg&hash=112dda59d641f4273a112f9b47414b7c4060d381) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170226_132847_zpsm6vsipbl.jpg.html)
The office area looks great Curt. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam................ 8) 8)
Today I finished the approach tracks ballasting. Tomorrow I need to experiment with the bottom of the crane so that I can slide it down the crane rails.
I still have a section of the addition that I have no clue what to do with it.
I will post a picture of it tomorrow.
Quote from: PRR Modeler on February 28, 2017, 03:05:53 PM
Today I finished the approach tracks ballasting. Tomorrow I need to experiment with the bottom of the crane so that I can slide it down the crane rails.
I still have a section of the addition that I have no clue what to do with it.
I will post a picture of it tomorrow.
Curt,
Looking forward to the photo update.
Tom ;D
Today I painted crates, steps, and a bigger yard office (still needs assembly). I also worked on the beam crane and made another small ramp that goes on the opposite end of the platform from the trailer removal end to give some flexibility if I bring a Merchandise Service boxcar there so crates can be loaded on delivery trucks by forklift.
Tomorrow morning I'm driving up to see a friend that made me a Pennsy dwarf signal on a pole (from a reference photo). Jon is the one that built and helped install the Pennsy signal bridges and stand alone signals for Bill (6 miles west of Altoona layout tour). He does excellent work.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170228_173032_zpsshi2ny1h.jpg&hash=08f024ec23c8f31868c3ead70d1269c89e477384) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170228_173032_zpsshi2ny1h.jpg.html)
The dimensions of the area that I am scratching my head about is right side 40" and the bottom is 12". Any ideas will be welcomed. Honestly right now I am thinking about putting in a small hill.
The ballasting looks good Curt. I would put in a small hill with fir trees of various sizes on top of that hill. That will give the addition some depth as one looks into the addition from any viewing point.
Stay cool and run steam............ 8) 8)
I would put a warehouse district.
Add a another switch coming back toward camera ( Outermost track) and you can have street running to service warehouse
Thank you all for the suggestions.
Today I went up to Jon's and picked up the Pennsy dwarf signal and you really can't get much closer to the photo than he did. After getting home I mounted it and hooked it up electrically. I also placed a SPST in line so I can turn it off when I want to.
I have decided to add some small hills and a road in between them. The warehouses are a great suggestion, but I really like "green space" and the layout needs some. The plus of doing the hills, is that if in the future if I decided to do warehouses the hills are easy to remove.
This is the small ramp I made yesterday to give a little more flexibility with box cars. I will post a picture of the signal tomorrow.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170301_162234_zpsnzhqkdhj.jpg&hash=ba8a869b4bc028e69a5642fa0a041f6bfd24793c) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170301_162234_zpsnzhqkdhj.jpg.html)
The ramp looks good Curt. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam........... 8) 8)
Well nothing got done on the layout today because our visit to one store turned into 2 Outlet Malls and Wally World. I really should of wore tennis shoes! Probably no progress until Sunday.
Here is the dwarf prototype. The pole looks thicker because of the angle of the photo.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170303_152457_zpsgu4ibecf.jpg&hash=2feaf0385a4acbe85783c27dc7fc254275a11700) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170303_152457_zpsgu4ibecf.jpg.html)
Here is what Jon made for me.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170303_152335_zpsvgnxfuve.jpg&hash=d44bdd63c6aeb29bf107dc7a9b768a50a5d45ebb) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170303_152335_zpsvgnxfuve.jpg.html)
Nice signal, Jon S. does some fine signals.
Tom ;D
He sure does. I built a 2 track signal bridge and Jon wired it for me. It's one of the focal points of the layout.
Quote from: PRR Modeler on March 03, 2017, 06:24:34 PM
He sure does. I built a 2 track signal bridge and Jon wired it for me. It's one of the focal points of the layout.
Curt,
The Pennsy signal bridges he did for Bill and Kris are absolutely the best. Great looking signals on a great awesome layout is even better.
Tom ;D
Great looking signal Curt. Jon did a fantastic job. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam....... 8) 8)
Today I hot glued the small hills lattice work together and covered with plaster cloth. Tomorrow after I paint them I will take a photo. Right now they would just look like white blobs.
Quote from: PRR Modeler on March 04, 2017, 12:34:10 PM
Today I hot glued the small hills lattice work together and covered with plaster cloth. Tomorrow after I paint them I will take a photo. Right now they would just look like white blobs.
Sometimes a photo of the "white blobs" will give one a perspective of how the hills will look on the layout. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam....... 8) 8)
Today I painted the hills before lunch then after lunch I put down ground cover. Tomorrow I will "asphalt" the road, add trees and make a sign "Next Left Container Terminal". Depending on the time I may put down a bunch of detail parts down. After that the project will officially be complete.
When I was at my MRR club last night I got a building for free ;D that works for the terminal office. The front had a big hole in it, so I put in large windows that I had. They cover the hole and I figure the office would want to be able to see what was going on in the terminal area.
I also made a deal with the club president. The club layout has 2 PRR trailers like I have for my current TrucTrain flats. I'm going to bring in 2 Non Pennsy trailers and swap them. They are the large ticket items for my next project of building 2 more flats (for a total of 4).
As you can tell the ground cover is still wet. I use Scenic Express because I like their mixture of different materials.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170305_141849_zps0nauircb.jpg&hash=ee82a3762c6a51706bb66f39536b36a7f9150024) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170305_141849_zps0nauircb.jpg.html)
Here is the new terminal office. I may replace it in the future but it is fine for now and I love the cost.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170305_141953_zpscsugqsmq.jpg&hash=e113d1e7994cac4b51636670fa894d28083679b4) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170305_141953_zpscsugqsmq.jpg.html)
Nice work Curt. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam........ 8) 8)
Curt,
Free stuff is good. I really like the traveling crane look.
Tom ;D
Today I finished the project. I started by brushing the road on, added trees and made 3 signs. After lunch I added the rest of the details such as crates, people, and vehicles. Tomorrow I will try to shoot a short video.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170306_121815_zpsjx87lts7.jpg&hash=7a9686f386b2b55640a9118e96b8386594d9ce87) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170306_121815_zpsjx87lts7.jpg.html)
These are the signs I made.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1082.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fj372%2Fcurtwbb%2FMisc%2F20170306_114828_zpsrujartru.jpg&hash=1acd4d24d6ebfba78f0fa778cf5507aeffb6d89b) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/curtwbb/media/Misc/20170306_114828_zpsrujartru.jpg.html)
Nice work on the signs Curt. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam........ 8) 8)
Curt,
I have plenty of pine trees I won't be using - small, medium and large ones. Added to your scene will really make it look like a forest.
These are free and free is a good thing. Let me know and I'll either get them to you or leave them with Jon.
Tom ;D
Thank you Bob and Tom.
Tom- That is a very generous offer, but I actually have a lot of trees that are not on the layout. I only put a few trees on because I thought too many would look funny right next to the terminal.
I will rethink the area tomorrow. Once again your offer is very generous and I appreciate it greatly. Thank you.
Quote from: PRR Modeler on March 06, 2017, 06:21:57 PM
Thank you Bob and Tom.
Tom- That is a very generous offer, but I actually have a lot of trees that are not on the layout. I only put a few trees on because I thought too many would look funny right next to the terminal.
I will rethink the area tomorrow. Once again your offer is very generous and I appreciate it greatly. Thank you.
Curt,
You are very welcome. You know where to find me if you need any. I only have a couple hundred.
Tom ;D
Based on what Tom recommended yesterday I added a bunch more trees. Here is a short video I shot this morning. It's a little dark and of course you can hear Zazu the Timneh (a bird rescue) in the background.
I ordered the flat car kits (2) from Tichy and the trailer stands from Details West for the 2 car TrucTrain project.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_LqhyXXpbpo
Curt,
Nice video of the new addition. The added tress make the scene look better. Good job.
Tom ;D
Enjoyed the video.....thanks Curt. 8)
Nice Video Curt. The trees really make then scene look good.
Jim
Tom, Gregory, and Jim thank you for your kind words.
Looking great Curt.
Curt:
You did a nice job planting the trees. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam........... 8) 8)
A nice looking addition to your layout.
Jeff
Andy, Bob, and Jeff thank you for your kind words.
Today was the second day of cleaning track which is now complete. While cleaning track I found a 3 ft section adjacent to the new addition with no power. Somehow I must have broke a feeder wire, so I soldered a new pair and problem solved. I wish all problems were that easy to fix :o.
Tomorrow I hope to do a video from rail car level of the layout. Fingers crossed. The Tichy flat car kits came in really quick so I should start on them this weekend. I have already made three flat cars from the same kits so I can probably do them in my sleep.
Cleaning track is always a chore Curt. ::) I have two track cleaning cars that work well in N scale.
Stay cool and run steam........ 8) 8)
Well so much for the best laid plans. I was messing with the camera trying to get it to work while running a train. I finally figured out the camera and was getting ready to do the video when the wife lets the birds out of their cages and the screech fest began. At that point I figured that it was a waste of time.
For some time I have been hearing a thunking sound when a train runs over one spot on the layout. Of course it is in a hard area to get at mainly because of scenery. Since the video was out I decided to finally try to figure what was going on.
I figured that it was T/O problem. The area has a 4 ft gradual curve that has a T/O on each. The area forms a very gentle S curve. Only occasionally would there be a derail because I usually run at low speeds but I could always hear the thunking noise. Looking at it there was nothing obvious. I was looking at different perspectives and in one you could see a very slight kink :o.
I figured it would be easy to fix...yeah right. I ended up ripping up the entire curve and relaying it. It took a couple of hours to redo it and make sure that both ends were perfect. After tacking it down I ran a MU set of loco's and a flat car (light weight) about 30 times in both directions at various speeds without issue. I also made sure the track was level going into the T/O's.
Of the best laid plans....
Good luck fixing the switch/turnout problem Curt. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam........ 8) 8)
Here is a video run through of my layout, such as it is.
https://www.youtube.com/edit?video_id=loBJKqkGdz8
Great video Curt.
Neat video, thanks for the tour.
Jeff
Great video Curt. :) ;) 8) Very nicely done.
Stay cool and run steam............ 8) 8)
Curt nice video, thanks for the tour of your layout.
Cool video!
Tom ;D
Thank you Andy, Jeff, Bob, Tom and Jim for your kind words. I feel like a rookie when I look at all your pictures and layout work.
I wanted to start building the flats but was O.B.E. (overtaken by events). We used to say that a lot in the Navy. ;) Probably tomorrow.
Enjoyed the video Curt.....great work. 8)
Thank you Gregory for the kind words.
Here is a video of the layout going in the opposite direction from the previous one.
I recommend turning the volume off.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=njmeT_UnJ7Q
Great video Curt. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam......... 8) 8)
Thanks Bob.
Bill Fagan videotaped my layout the other day and the following videos (4) are what he produced.
Flyover
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xP9_WzynEJg
Southbound
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ErG50fCicso
Northbound
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UiTfl-UNHp4
Slideshow
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v5KEmOZkb5Q&t=27s
Curt & Bill,
Wow, man that's some cool footage of your simply awesome workmanship on this layout. Excuse me, I'm going to watch these again. Thanx Thom...
Curt,
WOW, what a neat layout. I didn't realize the size of it until Bill's videos. I love that high trestle scene.
Very nice young man, very nice!
I'm happy Bill was able to see your layout and do the videos.
Tom ;D
Neat videos and wonderful layout Curt.....looking forward to seeing it in person. 8)
Curt,
Thanks for letting Bill visit and film your work.
Particularly liked the PRR prototypical aspect signals. Regular signals are difficult to do. Aspects must be tougher.
Thanks again.
Chip Stevens
Thank you Thom, Tom, Greg, and Chip for your very kind words.
Chip- I can't take all the credit. I built the bridge and hooked up to the logic boards (LRT) and put in the IR sensors. Jon Shubert wired the heads (too small for me).
The grandkids are playing with the neighborhood kids so I decided to post pictures of my completed Monster Modelworks Tower. I started it before the build contest so I didn't want to post it in the kit building threads since Dave (S&S RR) is building one there.
The first picture is the ground floor. I moved the roof chimney to the back wall from the side wall (made more sense to me) and added a chimney on the outside using MMW brick columns I purchased separately. The switch machine is from AMB, and the detail parts are from Builders in Scale. I used Hunterline Med Brown on the interior floors after laying individual boards for the flooring.
One more side.
Great work Curt..... 8)
Now that's a good looking Tower.
Jim
Curt,
Very nicely done my friend. Love the lever action and interior lighting. A+
Tom ;D
Curt, that's one fine build...!!
Greg, Jim, Tom, and Donato thank you very much for your kind words.
Here is the tower finished and in place on the layout.
Last picture
Curt,
Great build and scene. Interior details really add to the scene and tower. The tower looks right at home in that spot.
Well done my friend.
Tom ;D
Thank you for your kind words Tom.
Fits the scene perfectly Curt.....love the lighting. 8)
Thank you Greg.
Nice job Curt.
Jim
Thank you Jim.
The tower looks great. The interior detail and lighting really put it over the top.
Jeff
Thank you very much Jeff.
Very nice build..that tower screams "Pennsy"
Thank you for your kind words John.
Hey Curt:
Great job thank for the photos.
Karl
Thank you Karl.