Finally got a 2' x 8' section built and some track laid out. It's a start and something to do some switching and scenicking on until I get the basement cleared out some more.
Got all the feeders soldered on and wired it all up.
Then I ran the first train into town and did some switching. It's a bit challenging to switch, but it works okay.
The turnouts are all hand built using the Fast Tracks system. They all turned out pretty well. I need to run a few more locomotives and cars through them to make sure everything is all good.
The frogs are fully insulated and powered using Tam Valley Frog Juicers. This is the first time I've used Frog Juicers and they seem to 'just work'.
Finally got a 2' x 8' section built and some track laid out. It's a start and something to do some switching and scenicking on until I get the basement cleared out some more.
Wow, look at all them handlaid turnouts!! I use the same system and have used several of them on consecutive layouts. They are durable and work really well if built to the correct tolerances. In fact, I have built custom turnouts on each of the last two layouts, critical ones meant for a wye-split, but at track speed. I tested mine with numerous locomotives, trailing and shoving, passenger and freight, forwards and backwards, but always at speed. I mean 90 scale mph! If I couldn't back my Niagara and six heavyweights through those turnouts at 70+, it had to be fixed. I'm pleased to say that both turnouts performed like champs, and as a result, so did all them speedy consists.
Moved the layout down to the basement last night and put it on some legs.
Also added the extension to give it a fiddle yard.
Eventually all the stuff on the shelves in the background will be dealt with and go away. Then the shelves will come out and the layout will go along the wall.
I use the same system and have used several of them on consecutive layouts. They are durable and work really well if built to the correct tolerances. In fact, I have built custom turnouts on each of the last two layouts, critical ones meant for a wye-split, but at track speed. I tested mine with numerous locomotives, trailing and shoving, passenger and freight, forwards and backwards, but always at speed. I mean 90 scale mph! If I couldn't back my Niagara and six heavyweights through those turnouts at 70+, it had to be fixed. I'm pleased to say that both turnouts performed like champs, and as a result, so did all them speedy consists. 