After 15 years with the old HCD layout and 6 moves, it was time to rebuild. I decided to go with three modules that I could split for further moves. I chose Unitrack this time for ease of install and resilience compared to my last one with code 55. it will be wired for DC block operations since I haven’t made the jump to DCC. Not yet ready to convert 25+ steam engines. Here are some pics I used a torch on the foam to form the riverbed and lake, I’ll fill the bottom and level with hydrocal in the future. Still roughing out the foam for the logging line and mountain backdrop that will cover staging.
Torch? What a neat idea? You do that outside? 25 steam locomotives? This steam only guy would like to see that!
I opened the windows and basement door to the backyard before starting. It does add a certain aroma to the space for a bit.
I did not use any planning software for the layout. Just pure guesstimating as I laid out the Unitrack. Once roughed in, I ran my most finicky locomotives to test. I’ll get some additional photos this weekend.
Kept it controlled and well ventilated. Only once did it try to flame up, it is rather fire retardant. It wasn't any worse than using a hot wire cutter.
More progress this weekend. Roughed out the mountain and placed various structures to finesse the scenery locations. I decided to forgo the logging line over the mountain, it will become a future extension instead. I’ve finished most of the feeders, using unijoiners with 22 gauge wire. Intend to start gluing down track by weeks end.
Looks great so far. I like the track layout and how it flows with the buildings. Do you have access under those mountains in the back corner?
It’s been a while since updating this thread. We moved again and it gave me a room for the layout, split with an office. I used some excess shelving units for the base, they have 13” openings that mirror IKEA shelves so there is a plethora of door, drawer and other insert options for the shelves. Once scenery and the fascia is done, it should look like a nice bit of furniture.
Going to install the fascia this weekend. I plan on using black corrugated plastic sheets, looks decent and is easy to replace if damaged in future moves. It is also easy to cut contours in with a hot wire cutting tool for scenery elevations.
Added some Ikea drawers and boxes to the shelf for storage along with adding a 3 track staging area. I didn’t get to the fascia yet.
Started on the fascia last night. Will contour it with the hot wire cutter once I’ve placed all the stock sized pieces. I used hot glue, it makes the corrugated plastic easy to just pull off for repair if needed but still sturdy enough for what it’s intended for. Further, it’s easy to bend around corners by slicing through just one side of the panel and makes the corners look nice and neat. Close ups to follow when done.
Looking at the 'torched' creek/lake beds, it actually looks a lot like the mix of large and small rounded rocks in a mountain stream bed. Once covered with moss and other growth, they become fairly uniform in color, which could be easily brush or spray painted on in your case. Maybe throw in some scale gravel too. Awesome layout; keep posting your progress!