Tag: Track dimensions

Layout Construction, Layout Planning, Planning BookLeave a comment

Build #07: Flex Tracks as Planning Tool

traiNmaster

In my previous post – Build #06 Track Laying Visualisation – I started working on the track laying for 2 segments, or to be exact, marking the lines for the tracks. This might should overboard or too much planning but I liked the overall process of the hobby. The hobby is not just about collecting trains and running them in circles or whatever configurations. As I build my layout, I am also learning more about railway operations and how for example tracks were laid and why they were laid in certain ways. I do some research and talk to modellers … Continue reading Build #07: Flex Tracks as Planning Tool

Benchwork, Layout Construction, Layout Planning, Planning Book3 Comments

Build #02: Lots of Measuring and Cutting for Module Parts

traiNmaster

This year’s weather was rather unusual. It was a relatively “warm” winter, between 5C and 12C, and occasional shower. The last 2 weekends were wet; thus, disrupting my plan to work outdoor. I do not have a proper workshop (note to self: make sure there is a small room for workshop when looking for new house) so I have to be satisfied with a makeshift workshop under 5C. In 3 hours, I managed to measure and saw module parts for Segment F, G and H and base for Segment A. This was my second time using Dremel DSM20, still more … Continue reading Build #02: Lots of Measuring and Cutting for Module Parts

Layout Construction2 Comments

Build #01: Plywood for Segment Modules

traiNmaster

Hello 2o14! It is time to start building. I spent the last quarter of 2013 building a diorama from actual plywood instead of carton cardboard and it was definitely good learning experience for a newbie. Most importantly for me is to be comfortable in handling the power tools (thanks Dremel for the DSM20 and Dremel 3000) and to work with woods. The next question would be why don’t I finish the diorama first before starting something – the idea of leaving something half done. As I mentioned before, the diorama is my test lab. The purpose was and is to learn as I … Continue reading Build #01: Plywood for Segment Modules

Layout Planning, Planning Book, Product ReviewLeave a comment

2D-Turnout Rapid Prototyping with 3D Effect

traiNmaster

As you can see I am picking up speed with my layout. The track plan is decided and fixed. Yesterday I had a good chat with Dirk over parts of the track plan and we looking into many areas such as positions and configurations of turnouts, positioning of signals and turnout mechanisms, how to build the layout and special considerations for vertical distances, tight curves and superelevation. As explained before in my earlier post on turnouts jigsaw puzzle, I printed out all the 45 Peco turnouts for my layout from their drawings and cut them to shape. I tested with … Continue reading 2D-Turnout Rapid Prototyping with 3D Effect

Layout Planning, Product Review2 Comments

Turnouts Jigsaw Puzzle

traiNmaster

I have convinced myself that I would go with Peco code 55 Universal Fine Streamline turnouts and tracks for my layout. Although code 55 is actually code 80 rails embedded onto the ties, Peco is the only manufacturer that makes flex tracks with concrete sleepers for N-scale. It is a pity that other such as Minitrix, Fleischmann, Piko and even Atlas have not being able to convince themselves to offer flex tracks with concrete sleeps. For the US model railroad manufacturer Atlas, it is understandable as most US tracks do not have concrete sleepers. But for the European/German manufacturers, hmm ….. … Continue reading Turnouts Jigsaw Puzzle

Product Review2 Comments

Peco Streamline Universal Fine Turnouts

traiNmaster

Most N-scale manufacturers produced their own commercial ready-to-run N-scale tracks and turnouts but none came close to the quality produced by a few manufacturers such as Atlas, Fleischmann and Peco. As for the handlaid versions, Canadian Fast Tracks makes quality ones that worth the investment. Recently I bought all the Peco Streamline Universal Fine (N-scale code 55) turnouts and tracks that are available in the market. I am impressed with their quality and look forward to run them on my layout. I could not find a 1:1 Peco turnout template despite claimed to be sold or available online. Nonetheless, it … Continue reading Peco Streamline Universal Fine Turnouts