Hello, im new to this site and noticed that there is a wealth of knowledge of modeling. Im starting an N-Scale layout this week based on Dave Vollmer's Junita Division but with a modern western twist. When I was younger I had an HO layout but didnt really lay the track myself and since then ive only tooled around with the hobby and mostly running some stuff at a local club. So now im looking at getting back into it full bore and build myself a home layout. What are some tips, dos and donts for laying track or building a layout in general. Im using foamboard insulation with Atlas Code 55 on cork roadbed ran with DCC. Thanks in advance.
Welcome to the forum! A good first step for finding lots of info is to use the "Search" feature at the upper right of the forum. That way you can see all the previous threads that may have exactly the info you need (as well as some you didn't think you needed ). Another way to search is to look at the bottom of this thread under the section "Similar Threads". As for the track laying, I prefer clear laytex caulk. As you're starting out, it might be worth it to get David Popp's Building a Model Railroad Step-by-Step, as he covers, with pictures, many of the issues that you'll be dealing with. He models in N-scale and uses HCDs & foam just like Dave Vollmer. If you want to listen to David Vollmer himself talk about the shortcomings of his layout design & what he'd do different then check out this thread. In addition to some posts by him, there's a video of one of his talks on his layout. Welcome aboard & looking forward to seeing photos of your progress!
I'll join in on your question since my son and I are planning to expand our layout using flextrack, and perhaps the answer to my question might help you as well. During our previous limited installations of flextrack it seemed that we really did not know what we were doing. A big problem I noticed was that I could not figure out exactly where the rail needed to be cut (particularly the inner one) until I got it nailed down to the cork, at which point I could no longer cut it without lifting it up. Sometimes while lifting it up or cutting it I would damage the flextrack, requiring that I rip out the entire piece and start over, and it always seemed like a frustrating guessing game. Perhaps someone with more experiece can comment on a better way - for example do you install the flextrack and then use a cutting tool to get it to the exactly right length, and if so, what tools and techniques do some of you experienced flextrack installers use?
Check your PM reference the Rivarrossi motor inquiry. I sent a photo of what I have in the reply. If it is the same let me know by PM or E-mail with a shipping address, and I will give it a quick test and forward it by USPS.
Here is the best advice- Go slow and don't get frustrated. Ask questions here. You will receive answers usually within twelve hours or so. Also, there are a few basics that need to be asked about. 1. Are the layouts along the wall or free standing? 2. What switch machines will be used (if not all manual)? Make sure everything, and I mean everything, fits perfectly before soldering. Don't "bend" to fit. Temporarily affix your track where you want it and run every piece of equipment you have in your possession both ways over your turnouts and crossing. Just because one engine makes it over a turnout does not mean another will, as well. You don't need an absolutely exact plan down to the millimeter unless that is what you want. Leave enough room for building and other structure placement as you progress. As to grades- Don't think that every engine you run will make it up a grade (or even a curve if pulling a long enough series of cars behind it). Test them out first. It avoids the hair pulling later on.
It's going to be free standing so I can keep it portable. Switches will be handthrow just to keep it simple. I used the search feature and couldn't really come up with anything about basic tips and such. Btw I'm using flextrack.
First...welcome aboard ! Along with what has been mentioned....Here is my list: 1) Buy a Xuron Track Cutter. I have used razor saws, dremels, teeth, and cuss words! Then I finally bought a Xuron Track Cutter !! Sweetest tool I own. 2) As has been mentioned....just tack the track down untill you are sure everything thats gonna be on those rails will roll through everything ! 3) Permanent afixing of track. There are as many favorite ways as there are modelers. White glue, carpenters glue. latex caulk, hot glue, liquid nails etc. etc etc. Pick one ;-) 4)If you are going to have buildings...plan for that when laying the track. Pretty well suxs when you find out latter that you need 1/4 inch more for the building so the trains dont hit em going by !! ;-) 5) DO NOT solder every joint ! Leave room for expansion. It dont matter if your layout is in a temperature controlled room or not...the track will expand and contract! You will just love going out and seeing zig-zags or humps and bumps later. Leave a gap between sections of flextrack. I use an old credit card for gap distance when laying flex. Plan ahead 6) Drop Feeders. You are gonna need em...especially with DCC. Some guys will put drop feeders to the buss line every section of flextrack. Thats fine. I go every 2 sections and alternate rails. I am on DCC for the most part...and everything runs fine and I DONT see any voltage drop. YMMV. 7) It's your layout...your trains. HAVE FUN! Dont ever let anyone tell you "Thats not the way its done!" If it works for you. If it looks good to you. Then its always GOOD!!! .
