[Don Chovanec]

Hi all, Been doing a lot of research on modular layouts. I live in a small 2 bedroom (1 bedroom and a Den with a closet) place now and I think it is for me, the only way to go. I have been trying to think of a way to have a return line however 24 inch width is just not enough to make a return trail. no matter how I configure it has to have a rotating shuttle to turn at each end. I am building this layout 2 24" X 48" sections One 24" square section between the two forming an L shape pattern. The framework is 3/4 inch PVC surrounded by 1"X4"s with a 6" Backboard. The legs are PVC with adjusters for hieght and each section will lock into the other when setup. The two pieces will lay ontop each other forming a 24" box {} with the end piece on top to stand in the corner of my closet. It is kind of a hassel but hey it's a layout that I can store away. I am hoping to form a club with some other retirerees so we can set up a bigger modular layout in one of out clubhouse's once or twice a month. We can use the clubhouses for free and we have 8 of them. I bought a book "Small, Smart & Practical Track Planes" by Iain Rice. Put out bey Model Railroader books. It has given me some good tips and ideas though what I am trying is not in there. It has to be lightweight, easy to assemble, and CHEAP. I bought some Atlas HO code 83 track although I want to eventually lay my own rails.

 

[stationmaster]

I would suggest 30" wide sections if possible. That would allow for a 24"r. turn to be used. Just my $.02.

 

[NYCFlyer76]

Nice thanks for the Idea

 

[stationmaster]

One other tidbit I would like to suggest. Use the NMRA standards when building your modules. It will allow you to expand and exchange modules at your discretion. You can actually change your layout by changing modules.

We do that here. I model 1920's to the 1950's normally. But I can change to a modern road in a matter of minutes.

 

[Don Chovanec]

More on my Modular layout

Hi All, Well I been collecting all the materials to build everything and will start next week to put it together. I decided on a theme for my layout. I will have 1 module in forest theme as seen with logging activity including some "mules" if I can model them. I would like to have some trees in mid-fall or maybe even falling and rising. Some cable features for transfering logs It will have some water pond features with floating logs and such. I picture a mainline coming out of the forest full of logs going over to the other module will be a small lumber town featuring a Saw mill and such. I may put in a 4' by4' corner so I can achieve a return circle. I am still thinking on that one. I will keep you posted and any thoughts or suggestions are welcome.