View attachment 64240 View attachment 64241 Making a few changes to the layout. I'm building a bridge where the mountain cutout was located. I think it will look better. It adds some open space in the valley.
So I'm making a lot of changes. I wasn't really happy with the upper half so I'm redoing it. Pics to follow...
I wasn't at all happy with how the layout was put together so I raised the lower section even with the upper which took out a huge incline that ran the length of the lower board. The loop will still be coerced by a mountain and the bridge will still be in the same spot. I added a styrofoam board under the upper section for strength when I move it around for shows. This will be a much sturdier design. The mountain will be cardboard with plaster cloth. Here's a few pictures that might give you an idea as to what's going on. View attachment 64414 View attachment 64413 View attachment 64412
Got some work done tonight on the mountain. The bridge is just sitting in place, it needs tone completed but it gives you an idea. View attachment 64555 View attachment 64557 View attachment 64556
Layout update. I hated the position of the coal mine. It wasn't in a convenient or practical location so it was moved. I love the new location. It just flows so much better and looks like a more realistic location because a train isn't going into a coal mine mountain. In doing this I was able to save money too by locating the switches back to the yard that I would've replaced and no longer have to buy flex track. Secondly I lowered the incline by 1" around the track. I'd like to eliminate the incline all together but I like multi layered layouts. The bridge will be extended over the bottom track before entering the mountain.
We have all been there before. Sometimes its just better to start over, and try something new. Hope you were able to salvage most of the materials/track for the next one.
thanks. I should be able to save 90%+ of the track. I went ahead and ordered a couple packages of 220mm 45 degree curves. I thought I might as well make a double main that has large enough curves to handle the larger engines if I ever get one. I've got a good plan now. There won't be any inclines on the main lines. There will be valleys cut in and the illusion of different heights. I've got a double track wooden bridge that will be going in. Hopefully it all comes together.
The styrofoam isn't permanent. I have new ready to lay down but I wanted a track plan first. Btw you can get it 50% off if you ask for broken pieces. Most of the time it's just a little chip. The double main line flows evenly and should work fine. The smaller area will have a double track wooden trestle. I'm happy with the way it's turning out. It's less chaotic. Some of the track needs straightened out but it looks good. View attachment 65223 View attachment 65224 View attachment 65225
Pick a spot that you want to model and check out some photos. Do you want to go canyon style, Appalachian style or Midwest more flat style? What area are you modelling?
Here's a better update. There's a valley and river that need cut in. There's a mountain runoff waterfall flowing into the river. Only one tunnel now. The mountains will run the outer edges on both ends and the valley runs from the smaller section towards the corner.
My layout is called the appalachian model railroad. I'm modeling my home of Southern Ohio, West Virginia and the Virginia region.
I use a saber saw sort of like this one: It cuts the foam like butter. I actually have 2, one is cordless the other with cord. You can adjust the blade depth. You can also adjust the angle. So if you are doing a river, you can cut it basic slopes. If you don't have one, get one! Rob
Try a 'Keyhole' saw: (uses standard ""Sawzall"" reciprocating saw blades) http://www.lowes.com/pd_247261-16878-60157_0__?productId=1070289 or scrape out the surfaces with a 'Surform' tool from Stanley: (HomeDepot or Harbor Freight), then sand smoother with 36-40 grit sand paper.
+1 on the keyhole saw and cheese grater. Those two will make quick work. Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk
Thanks for all the tips. I've put them to use. I have a rather extensive tool collection so I had everything listed. Even doubles. I got some roughing in done tonight. I'm still waiting on my order to be delivered or some other pieces.