So this is happening... This is a new to me N-Scale layout that I picked up locally from an older modeler who was getting out of the hobby. It is an incredibly well build and planned layout that I now have the pleasure of bringing back to life in my own space and adding my own influences. My hope is that I will be able to build and model to the same level that the previous owner did. BTW, for those that are interested, this layout was featured in Model Railroader Magazine in the July 2013 edition as the "Carlyle Division." Sent from my SM-G973U1 using Tapatalk
Looks like you got your work cut out for you! And the first 5 years of work already completed. Can’t wait to see your progress on getting it back together.
Yes, indeed. I have lots of work ahead of me, but it should be fun. I've been wanting to build a model railroad since I was a kid, and I finally have the space, time, and money to do it, so here I go. Sent from my SM-G973U1 using Tapatalk
Count me jealous on two counts: the layout and the space to unfold/expand it! You have a great example of excellent modeling to start with; now make it your own. Since he is getting out of the hobby, did you get his trains too? Is it wired for DC or DCC? I didn't see a massive control panel, and given the date of its appearance in MRR, it was likely set up for DCC (no DC blocks/controls.) Especially on a layout this size, DCC allows so much more flexibility in running trains. Looks like the track plan originally boiled down to a twisted, folded dogbone, which is a very versatile plan. However, I don't see any provision for reversing. You may have the opportunity to add that (a simple crossover track between the two tracks of the 'bone would do it), and the operating interest it provides (like out and back running), in addition to the continuous running and operations it provides now. Have fun, and keep us up to date with your new work on it!
Wow! Just wow! Instant layout and running! Many of us take years to get to that point! BTW, I see empty spots for buildings. Did it come with any?
Thanks for the comments everyone. I really feel very fortunate to have picked up such a well built example of a model railroad. And I feel a bit of responsibility too, as I want to keep this going and honor all the time, dedication, and hours that have been put into this work of art by the previous owner. As far as how it's set up and what I got with it, it was originally wired for DC and block control, but has been converted to DCC. I also got the Digitrax DCC system with it. The track is all Micro Engineering Code 55, and the turnouts all have switch machines with micro switches to control power to the frogs. The guy I got this from had been in the process of parting it out, so many of the buildings and other structures had been previously sold off, but not all. I got all the buildings in the main town of Caryle as well as the roundhouse and most of the associated yard buildings. But this was perfectly fine with me as I'm planning on changing this from a Great Northern themed railroad set in the '50's to a Denver and Rio Grande Western themed railroad set in the '70's and '80's. Plus it will give me more to model. As far as engines and rolling stock goes, I purchased one Mountain steam locomotive and a handful of freight cars, and he sold off all the rest. Which is also fine with me as they were mostly from the wrong road and era to be of much use to me. Sent from my SM-G973U1 using Tapatalk
I have been getting rid of a lot of my old printed magazines but I still had the July 2013 issue of MR and re-read the article on this layout and yes, it was very well done. How wonderful it is that this layout has a new home. That does not happen as much as it should for a variety of reasons.
Yes, rereading the 2013 article, this is a fine layout built with a lot of care. The ME Code55 track looks really good and it has fantastic scenery. - Tonkphilip
Hey All, I thought I'd post a quick update on my progress with the rebuilding of the Carlyle Division as a proto-freelance D&RGW Railroad in the Colorado Rockies. Currently I am at the point of building out the model railroad room. I have added lighting and am now adding backdrops. I wanted to do this before I started putting the layout sections back together again as they are still easy to move around for the installation and painting of the backdrops. And for those of you who might be interested in following along, I have also created an Instagram account to chronicle this project. It can be found on IG at trainsplanesnthings . Sent from my SM-G973U1 using Tapatalk
"Instagram?" What the heck is that? More new - fangled stuff to try to keep up with..... And, what an awesome deal! This is going to be a lot of fun watching you pull the pieces together and make it your own! Then you should let MR and or RMC know so they can put you out there later! But we here will have front row seats!
I have been working with the owner of PnP trains to do much of the same thing as you are doing. He acquired a layout from someone who is planning to travel around the world and the house and trains had to go. His layout was also featured in a magazine, but not MRR. His layout was in N Scale Modeler. I have been working on rewiring the layout and he has been fixing the scenery. This last weekend we finally got the wiring good enough to run trains across the entire layout. Some of the switch motors and other features are still wonky but we are getting there. My next task is to remove the NCE system and install a Digitrax system.
From me, no, not at the moment but I will ask if he doesn’t mind, and I will post them on their own forum and not hijack this one. I was just comparing notes as I’m involved in the exact same project just in a different space.
No, those are independent with their own logic provided by these odd relay boards located all around the layout. This layout was designed in the early 2000’s and has been moved twice now, so things need some help. I may be building new logic with a microcontroller over the “analog” logic it has now. The majority of what I need to do is simply replace the command station and boosters with Digitrax versions. It already has an AR1 and 2 PM4s for power management and auto reversing and that all seems to work good now that most everything is hooked back up.
I'll add more pics here in the future when there's more to show, and videos on my IG channel. Sent from my SM-G973U1 using Tapatalk
I have thought about doing that, but I've got a long way to go before I get to that point. But it might make an interesting story. Sent from my SM-G973U1 using Tapatalk
