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Having purchased trains since 1990(adding to my childhood trains), the beginning of my train layout has finally commenced.  Obsidian has designed the layout. He and his son are helping with the benchwork.  They have been very helpful and I am very excited to finally see the beginnings of the "South Fork Railroad" after all the years looking at boxes.

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  • image: Needed to clear room of inventory
  • image: Painting room Nevada Sky Blue
  • image: Bench work begins finally
  • image: Winding down first day
  • image: Hellgate Bridge sizing for layout
  • image: Layout designer Obsidian & son helping with benchwork
Last edited by W&W
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Hope to post progress this weekend with RR-track design.  Layout will have three main lines with elevated subway.  Lionel Grand Central Terminal will be focus point with four tracks running underneath.  Hellgate bridge will be focal point with two Lionel Lift Bridges.  GCT area will be elevated from main level As will a yard area and a 34" Millhouse round table with minimum of 13 spurs.  Lionel carnival accessories will be used, also Lionel Back shop, Irvington Factory, coal tipple etc.  Will use MTH DCS & Lionel Legacy control.  Lionel, MTH, K-line, Atlas, Williams rolling stock, power units.  Hope to use Atlas track, turnouts.  Future plans to have storage tracks under the main level.  Thanks for everyone's interest.  Also plan to post videos.

Second day of construction for the "South Fork Railroad" completed.  A lot was accomplished. Completed 99% of benchwork. Levelers placed on legs. Next - complete benchwork, place/cut plywood tops/grades to upper level etc. Original RR Track design being tweaked with some minor changes. Determining how to get track down under the main level which will provide storage tracks and possible reversing loop. The construction crew had a good time working together.  The day started with our Dunkin Donuts, work, Lunch provided by my train buddy/wife Judi, followed by more work.      I am very much appreciate for the help of my model railroading friends Ken, Austin & Joe helping build the "South Fork Railroad".

Room approx. 26'x14'.   Have room for expansion to adjoining room, maybe in the future.  Concentration now for this area, 3 mainlines, plus elevated subway and want to have line, storage tracks under main level.   Holdup now is waiting for track.  Meanwhile, will be doing backdrops etc.   In the meantime, if I can obtain some curved track(min 072) to use for templates, may begin placing plywood for track inclines etc.

Started laying plywood for level one of layout. Next steps are to paint plywood tops and secure to benchwork. May secure plywood from bottom side to make it easier to remove if need to in future. Received small shipment of Atlas track. Have few 072, 081, 090/099 curves to attempt to cut plywood for areas where three mains go to the second level of layout. Isle edges will be trimmed back when I receive enough track to see where everything falls.  I have been told track should arrive in October. Layout is going slower than I like, but I'm at the point that I need track to make further progress. Layout is three mains on two levels, with a third subway level. Am still hoping to have amother level below the main for staging etc.

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Originally Posted by W&W:

Having purchased trains since 1990(adding to my childhood trains), the beginning of my train layout has finally commenced.  Obsidian has designed the layout. He and his son are helping with the benchwork.  They have been very helpful and I am very excited to finally see the beginnings of the "South Fork Railroad" after all the years looking at boxes.

Wow, All that stuff and you have to wait on track?

Originally Posted by spwills:

Which South Fork would this be? There's one here in PA made infamous by the nearby dam.

 

Nice work!

South Fork is a road in Hardy/Pendleton Counties WVA.  My mother and aunt grew up on a farm there, which remains in the family.  My aunt worked for the PRR in Baltimore, gave me my first train(still have), an American Flyer 3-rail PRR steam freight set,  when I was five yrs old. That was the beginning of my love for model railroading, and having fond memories of my aunt whom gave me each Christmas something for my train, I decided to name the layout "SOUTH FORK RAILROAD".

Love the story:

South Fork is a road in Hardy/Pendleton Counties WVA.  My mother and aunt grew up on a farm there, which remains in the family.  My aunt worked for the PRR in Baltimore, gave me my first train(still have), an American Flyer 3-rail PRR steam freight set,  when I was five yrs old. That was the beginning of my love for model railroading, and having fond memories of my aunt whom gave me each Christmas something for my train, I decided to name the layout "SOUTH FORK RAILROAD".

 

Peter

 

Started to make three main inclines leaving Grand Central Station.  Have received some Atlas track to make templates. Hopefully will receive my Atlas track order this month! Will start electrical panels etc soon.  Have received much help from Steve Horvath from Atlas and his company Montana Rail Power. Will meet with Steve next week at York to go over electrical plans and pick up equipment. Will be using Lionel Legacy, MTH DCS and conventional to run trains on the four mains.

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Per ATLAS at York TCA meet, I should be receiving my track order by mid November. I can't wait.  I need track to make sure my RRTRACK plan is accurate in cutting plywood for inclines etc.  Meantime, working on electrical areas, planning control panels, etc.  Need to order more plywood this week.   Hope to at least have track down to test prior to Christmas.

Installed three electrical panels, Sub panel, Main panel "A"' and Auxillary panel "B". Will place MTH TIU/AIUs on the three panels. Track roadbed "FLEXBED" by Hobby Inovations to be delivered week after Thanksgiving.  Hopefully my ATLAS track order will arrive soon so I can start laying track, construct inclines/declines and second level. Appreciate electrical guidance from Steve Horvath of MONTANA RAIL POWER & ATLAS O. Steve has been great to work with.  This is my first experience doing carpentry/electrical work. Learning a lot and having fun!

 

 

 

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  • image: Sub Panel   Will Add MTH TIU
  • image: Main Panel "A" Will add MTH AIU
  • image: Auxillary Panel "B" Will add MTH AIUs

Thank you CSX AL!       It's going    SLOW,     mostly due to not having track until recently. Still waiting for #5 turnouts.      Can't wait to open the box the MILLHOUSE Turntable is in.  Haven't opened since I picked it up at April York TCA meet from you.  Layed plywood in area for turntable today.   This is my first layout, so I'm learning.  I'm not a carpenter by any means.

Why would you wait eight months for Atlas track?  Is there something special about it?  What type of operating system are you using?  Just curious why you need that heavy duty electric panel setup.  It's a toy train layout, not the space shuttle.  You should have been running trains in May.  I like some things about what you are doing, but if you want to get real, get it built and running trains.  Best of luck.

William 1 posted:

Why would you wait eight months for Atlas track?  Is there something special about it?  What type of operating system are you using?  Just curious why you need that heavy duty electric panel setup.  It's a toy train layout, not the space shuttle.  You should have been running trains in May.  I like some things about what you are doing, but if you want to get real, get it built and running trains.  Best of luck.

All of today's track systems are good. I went with ATLAS O Track because they had the curves I needed to run three Mainlines and one elevated subway line, in the space I have to work with.  I like ATLAS O Track for these additional reasons:    solid rail vs hollow,     realistic looking flat top rail vs rounded,   Nice looking tie system,  blackened third rail,  good electrical connections, etc. and TBD improved turnouts over previous turnouts.  Also, ATLAS O mates with most other manufactures track system.     Track choice is up to each individual, it just happens for my first layout, I looked at all other track systems and choice ATLAS O.  MTH ScaleTrax was my second choice, but did not choose due to availability issues.  Electrical system is set up to accommodate STAR SYSTEM recommended by MTH for DCS Remote.  Also, will run Lionel Legacy & Conventional in addition to MTH DCS.  Also, setting up blocks for future use of signal system.  Electrical design has not slowed the layout building timeframe, waiting for the track has.  Steve Horvath has designed the electrical system and most likely could answer your questions better than I and is welcome to comment if he chooses to.  Hopefully I have answered your questions and thank you for your input.  

Moonman posted:

Looking good!

I suggest taking out the jigsaw and rounding those corner points of the deck in the aisle. They will get you.

Thank you for your input Mooman!  I am always open to suggestions for improvements. That's why I post on this forum.  I really appreciate this forum's readers support, suggestions etc.  This is my first layout since a teenager, which was many years ago, and I am learning.   I had and will look at your suggestion for rounded corners.  May be able to round corner coming into the room.  The other corner may be a problem to round due to existing benchwork design and the design is such to accommodate an elevated Lionel liftbridge for the subway line at that point.

W&W posted:
William 1 posted:

Why would you wait eight months for Atlas track?  Is there something special about it?

All of today's track systems are good. I went with ATLAS O Track because they had the curves I needed to run three Mainlines and one elevated subway line, in the space I have to work with.  I like ATLAS O Track for these additional reasons:    solid rail vs hollow,     realistic looking flat top rail vs rounded,   Nice looking tie system,  blackened third rail,  good electrical connections, etc. and TBD improved turnouts over previous turnouts.  Also, ATLAS O mates with most other manufactures track system.

I also use Atlas track and switches. I had most of mine before the shortage, but I would have waited for it as well, I think it's worth it. It is also very quiet and seldom needs cleaning. I am very happy with both the track and switches, although I have some of the older switches that I purchased used. I got some parts from Atlas for some that had problems and they are now working well. Your wiring panels look great too. Organized wiring is a very big plus for any problems that may develop later on. I wired my layout for DCS as well and Legacy was very easy to add later on, powered it up and connected one wire to my  TIU common outputs which I then jumpered together. Steve is very knowledgeable. He helped me with some Atlas items a few years ago, went way out of his way to help too. Your layout is looking very nice too.

Last edited by rtr12
W&W posted:
Moonman posted:

Looking good!

I suggest taking out the jigsaw and rounding those corner points of the deck in the aisle. They will get you.

Thank you for your input Mooman!  I am always open to suggestions for improvements. That's why I post on this forum.  I really appreciate this forum's readers support, suggestions etc.  This is my first layout since a teenager, which was many years ago, and I am learning.   I had and will look at your suggestion for rounded corners.  May be able to round corner coming into the room.  The other corner may be a problem to round due to existing benchwork design and the design is such to accommodate an elevated Lionel liftbridge for the subway line at that point.

I am only talking the two points sticking out in the aisle, not shaping the layout. Photo 2 . perhaps sanding it little.

Last edited by Moonman
Moonman posted:
W&W posted:
Moonman posted:

Looking good!

I suggest taking out the jigsaw and rounding those corner points of the deck in the aisle. They will get you.

Thank you for your input Mooman!  I am always open to suggestions for improvements. That's why I post on this forum.  I really appreciate this forum's readers support, suggestions etc.  This is my first layout since a teenager, which was many years ago, and I am learning.   I had and will look at your suggestion for rounded corners.  May be able to round corner coming into the room.  The other corner may be a problem to round due to existing benchwork design and the design is such to accommodate an elevated Lionel liftbridge for the subway line at that point.

I am only talking the two points sticking out in the aisle, not shaping the layout. Photo 2 . perhaps sanding it little.

Carl, yes those are the two points I thought you meant. Thank you for the suggestion.

MarkStrittmatter posted:

Good evening Craig, the layout looks great and I agree get rid of the sharp corners they will get you sooner or later.

My only question is how are you going to access the breaker box/panel on the back wall of the layout ?

Can't tell from the angle of the picture if there is an aisle back there or not. 

Have fun !!!!

Electrical panel has a cutout in front of it for access. Two Mainlines will run under it against the wall with an open space in front of them for panel access.  Thanks for the comments.

Finally laying 3 Mainlines and wiring blocks for both track & signals.  Different color wire for each mainline & signals. Will install ATLAS O #5 switches when they arrive later this week or early next week. FLEXBED will be installed under track next.   Will need to make a decision on backdrops, whether to have or not prior to moving forward. Would like  NYC, industrial, river behind Hellgate, mountain scenes.     Any suggestions on where to get backdrops appreciated.     Plan is after Mainlines completed, install turntable(where round card board template is) & yards which will be 7" above main level.  Then to install elevetated city area on other side with Grand Central Terminal etc.  Elevated subway will be last track to be done. Then landscaping, ballasting etc.  Of course will need to run electrical wiring to three panels to enable Legacy, DCS, & conventional operation. Have been waiting for ATLAS O track since last April, and appears I will have all track soon to continue.

 Thanks for viewing.  

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  • Transformer Table 2 shelves
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  • Coming out of GCT
  • 34" Millhouse Turntable area

Craig,

The triple main lines look better than I dreamed they would!   There is no way I could have designed a layout with that much main line in your space had we not chosen Atlas O.   The wide variety of curve diameters nested 9" apart gives you a nice prototypical look.   Your use of a template to ensure consistent track separation will only further improve the appearance and operation of your layout.   It's been a half year or so but definitely worth the waiting for the #5 switches.  Looking forward to making that video of three trains, running side by side around your layout.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Ken 

Latest update on The South Fork Railroad.  Just completed laying Hobby Inovations 3/8" FLEXBED under three lower main level tracks.  Next phase will be wiring mainlines on lower level and running trains for testing the mainlines. Then work will begin on the upper level which will have 34" Millhouse turntable, yards, on one side of layout New York City with Lionel's larger Grand Central Terminal on the opposite side. In process of choosing backgrounds to use surrounding the layout. This layout has taken longer then anticipated.  Biggest setback was waiting for Atlas O track and  turnouts.  So far I am glad I waited for the track which I like.  Thanks for looking.  All comments welcomed. Hopefully I'll have more to post soon.  

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Last edited by W&W
Moonman posted:

Thanks for the update, Craig. It's coming along.

How do you like working with the roadbed?

Carl,

I like the FLEXBED.   It is very easy to work with, bends easily with all curves, easy to cut & lay.  I am not gluing it, using track screws.  Once down, it stays in place. I'm using the 3/8" for all mains, and plan to use 1/4" on upper turntable Spurs and yards.   The Hobby Inovations people are great to work with!   The only problem I encountered is the ATLAS 3/4" screws I'm using should be a little longer. I have some #2 1" screws on order that I hope will be better.   1" track screws are hard to find, especially black oxide.  The ATLAS O track is quiet without any roadbed, can't wait to run some trains with the roadbed.

Thanks for your comments.  This is my first layout, and I am learning.

Mark Boyce posted:

Craig,

It is looking great!  First layout?  You are doing great!  Worth the wait!  I'm so glad you have that attitude.  Many folks would be upset if they had to wait so long!  I love the J 611.  I have a PS3 one, and can't wait for access to our last daughter's room when she gets married this year.  Looking forward to your updates.

Thank you Mark for the encouragement.   One main line wired and tested today in Conventional  mode.  Testing for continuity and everything is working.   Will wire next two Mainlines, test, then hookup panel that enables DCS, LEGACY/TMCC & Conventional operation.   Then to 2nd levels(turntable/Spurs/yards and NYC areas. One problem area Atlas 072/054 turnout. Older Lionel engine with two pu rollers only on one truck is stalling in switch.  Will test newer model engine for results.  Hopefully I can get turnout to work properly since it is on main level under an upper level and is hard to reach.

 

Last edited by W&W

IFirst of two control panels completed.  Panel one controls four relays, power to yards etc.  Second panel will control turntable Spurs (approx. 20) on second level etc.  Able to run in command modes(Legacy & DCS) and Conventional mode.

Wiring mostly completed on three Mainlines on level one of layout.  In process of testing three mains by running trains that have been in boxes.  Having fun finally seeing trains actually running vice laying in an unopened box.

Progress slower than I like, but I am finally able to run trains and everything working so far!  Level two turntable/Spurs, yards should begin soon.  

Will take a week break soon to attend the LOTS Convention.

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Images (1)
  • Control panel one
Videos (1)
South Fork Railroad
Last edited by W&W
W&W posted:
Mark Boyce posted:

Craig,

It is looking great!  First layout?  You are doing great!  Worth the wait!  I'm so glad you have that attitude.  Many folks would be upset if they had to wait so long!  I love the J 611.  I have a PS3 one, and can't wait for access to our last daughter's room when she gets married this year.  Looking forward to your updates.

Thank you Mark for the encouragement.   One main line wired and tested today in Conventional  mode.  Testing for continuity and everything is working.   Will wire next two Mainlines, test, then hookup panel that enables DCS, LEGACY/TMCC & Conventional operation.   Then to 2nd levels(turntable/Spurs/yards and NYC areas. One problem area Atlas 072/054 turnout. Older Lionel engine with two pu rollers only on one truck is stalling in switch.  Will test newer model engine for results.  Hopefully I can get turnout to work properly since it is on main level under an upper level and is hard to reach.

 

When it stalls in the switch, cut the power and eyeball closely. Sometimes a pilot wheel will hit the center rail on the angle (short) or it may just be adding a power connection the center rail or jumpering one of the outside rails left unconnected by Atlas for non-derail use.

When you get an idea, start a new post with the problem. It's been solved before.

W&W posted:
Moonman posted:

Is W & W the Winchester & Western? They still run here in South Jersey. They haul our nice sand from the Bridgeton/Millville area to the NS tracks where it goes on it's way.

Carl, W&W is indeed the Winchester & Western. The W&W also hauls sand in this area out of sand mines in the Gore, Va area thru Winchester, Va.

Wheaton Glass used the sand here. A big company from 1888 in Millville. I recall reading about the "Sandman" train, a regular run for W & W in Va.

 

Moonman posted:
W&W posted:
Moonman posted:

Is W & W the Winchester & Western? They still run here in South Jersey. They haul our nice sand from the Bridgeton/Millville area to the NS tracks where it goes on it's way.

Carl, W&W is indeed the Winchester & Western. The W&W also hauls sand in this area out of sand mines in the Gore, Va area thru Winchester, Va.

Wheaton Glass used the sand here. A big company from 1888 in Millville. I recall reading about the "Sandman" train, a regular run for W & W in Va.

 

W&W known locally as 'OL' Weak & Weary started in 1916 to haul timber out of W. Va to supply railroad ties for the B&O which ran into Winchester.  W&W now runs from Gore, Va thru Winchester to Hagerstown, Md, approx. 54 miles of track, hauling various products, but primarily sand from the sand mines at Gore.

I came to this thread late and must congratulate you on your progress to date and for providing such a good thread showing the main stages of your layout development.

I'm in the process of moving house so my old layout had to be demolished and all my trains, track and accessories are in store.

I plan to keep this thread as a reference work for my new layout - thank you for documenting it so well.

britrailer posted:

I came to this thread late and must congratulate you on your progress to date and for providing such a good thread showing the main stages of your layout development.

I'm in the process of moving house so my old layout had to be demolished and all my trains, track and accessories are in store.

I plan to keep this thread as a reference work for my new layout - thank you for documenting it so well.

Thank you "britrailer" for the kind words.  I have learned so much from reading the  O Gauge RR Forum postings from the many knowledgeable fellow railroaders. Your comments inspire me to continue to post to this forum in the hopes of sharing my learning experiences and helping other model railroaders as they have helped me.   You are the first reader of my posts to make me feel as though I've actually helped someone else.  Thank you!!

Last edited by W&W
Moonman posted:

Craig,

Documenting the layout build is more helpful than you realize. Read Rich's post on the website activity. Many will read and learn with no comments or posts. The time it takes to document the project is a worthy contribution to the community.

Thank you.

Carl, 

Your kind comments make me feel good knowing my posts could be helpful to  someone.  Being my first layout, learning how to build a layout,  I had no idea I would be helping someone else. Glad to help anyone, as many have helped me, especially from reading this forum.

Last edited by W&W

I have not posted progress for a while. Been busy wiring 17 Atlas turnouts that are installed using two MTH AIUs for DCS.  Will have another 10+ turnouts to wire when they are installed on upper level.  Also wired End of Track (EOT) flashing red LEDs for hidden yards that are installed to provide visual warning on control panel  when a train is getting to end of yard track.  The first upper level panel has been temporality installed where an upper level main loop will be and yards.  Will start next upper level panels this week which will be the area for my Millhouse Pennsylvania turntable, Spurs, yard for backshop.  Hope to get the turntable installed this week.  I want to thank all you Ogauge forum members whom have helped with info, problem solving issues, i.e. AIU issues, LEDs using AC power for EOTs etc.  I also want to thank Steve Horvath, whose help with electrical planning/installation has been invaluable.  I want Steve to know that his help, patience is greatly appreciated by me!  We have spent many hours on the phone this last year.

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Images (4)
  • SF RR: One panel in for upper level
  • SF RR: First upper panel
  • SF RR: Satellite control board
  • SF RR: Main control board

Progress this week included installing plywood for upper level yards, main upper loop to other side of layout(New York City), and Millhouse River turntable and whisker tracks. All went well with no surprises with help from my friend Joe. Joe's help has been greatly appreciated. Love the Millhouse River turntable. Mine is the PRR 34" weathered model.  It works GREAT!     Next: paint plywood, place whiskers around turntable, place yard and upper main loop. Then move to other side for upper level for NYC scene, Grand Central Terminal.

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Images (5)
  • image: Placing turntable to trace
  • image: Turntable installed
  • image: Turntable installed w/line from main
  • image: Three mains around turntable
  • image: Upper yards to be installed

Craig,

I'm glad you an Joe figured out how to implement the turntable on the upper (middle after elevated subway) level.  I think that operationally it will be simpler and more prototypical to be able to dispatch an engine from your turntable and hook up a consist from your yard without fowling your main.  You are making great progress and your layout looks great!  Thanks for the update.

Ken

Craig,

your moving on! I was looking at the first photo of the TT area and then went back and looked at the layout 3D's that Ken posted last year. I thought I'd toss this up as something to consider while you're at the TT. I have seen other layouts that had a second track, like an escape track, for a serviced engine to exit while another was coming in for service.

If the piece of plywood edge that I am looking at is a 4' section between the TT and the NYC bridge approach line, it looks like you could get an O72 escape track in there. Atlas switch and a piece of flex cut to 36 radius and 15°(or a cut sectional to fit).

 

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Images (1)
  • W&W_SFRR_Idea
Last edited by Moonman
Moonman posted:

Craig,

your moving on! I was looking at the first photo of the TT area and then went back and looked at the layout 3D's that Ken posted last year. I thought I'd toss this up as something to consider while you're at the TT. I have seen other layouts that had a second track, like an escape track, for a serviced engine to exit while another was coming in for service.

If the piece of plywood edge that I am looking at is a 4' section between the TT and the NYC bridge approach line, it looks like you could get an O72 escape track in there. Atlas switch and a piece of flex cut to 36 radius and 15°(or a cut sectional to fit).

 

Carl, 

Thank you for the suggestion.  Suggestions are always welcome here.  In fact, I had thought about doing just what you have suggested. I need to evaluate how many widgets/Spurs I will lose coming off the TT. I want to be able to store as many engines as possible on the layout to eliminate taking them on/off the layout. I lost one yard underneath the TT due to an 072/054 turnout problem that could not be resolved easily.

 Thank you for your continued input!  

W&W posted:
Moonman posted:

Craig,

your moving on! I was looking at the first photo of the TT area and then went back and looked at the layout 3D's that Ken posted last year. I thought I'd toss this up as something to consider while you're at the TT. I have seen other layouts that had a second track, like an escape track, for a serviced engine to exit while another was coming in for service.

If the piece of plywood edge that I am looking at is a 4' section between the TT and the NYC bridge approach line, it looks like you could get an O72 escape track in there. Atlas switch and a piece of flex cut to 36 radius and 15°(or a cut sectional to fit).

 

Carl, 

Thank you for the suggestion.  Suggestions are always welcome here.  In fact, I had thought about doing just what you have suggested. I need to evaluate how many widgets/Spurs I will lose coming off the TT. I want to be able to store as many engines as possible on the layout to eliminate taking them on/off the layout. I lost one yard underneath the TT due to an 072/054 turnout problem that could not be resolved easily.

 Thank you for your continued input!  

You could isolate that track and switch power on/off and still park an engine there. I used the 48 position 7.5° Millhouse TT. A 20"-24" inch track would fit next to it. Looks like you would lose two whiskers. One directly next to the roundhouse and one for spacing on the other side.

Sometimes you have to taper the ties near the TT to get tight whiskers. Prototype TT's were crammed in that way.

By the way, looking at the 3D's and now your build photos, that pointy inside corner still catches my eye.

Mark Boyce posted:

It's looking very good!  The lift bridge certainly can work to keep a duck-under to a minimum!  Is that your intent?

Mark, yes and no.  I am planning to install lift bridge to enable me to lift the bridge entirely out when I want to.  I have 2 different Lionel bridges. I plan to use the other lift bridge on the subway line which will run 7 or so inches above the 2nd level which will be a higher duck under.  Thanks for your comments and looking!

Recently added widgets to the Millhouse turntable.  Need to wire widgets to my 2nd control panel.     Also recently received new diesels for the South Fork Railroad, Lionel Norfolk Southern  SD60s and ES444ACs  shown in the pics.   Progress moving slowly on the layout, but continuing to get things accomplished.  Basically all track has been installed, need to install Lift Bridge to connect upper loop. After that will concentrate on upper level  NYC area including the original Grand Central Terminal sitting over the lower tracks that will run beneath.  

This time of year  my time is consumed getting rid of leaves and attending football games.   Thanks for looking.

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Images (4)
  • 9-1-1 Honoring First Responders: NS SD60
  • 6920 Honoring Our Veterans: NS SD60
  • 6963 GORAIL & NS ES44AC: NS SD60 & NS ES44AC
  • Overview of Turntable/widgets

Thanks to the helpful posters on this great forum, I have my Lionel 6-12782 lift bridge installed & working.  Bridge would not go up out of the box which was sealed from 1991. Researched posts on this forum, and found a post that indicated Lionel had put out a bulletin that the "v2" tension button within the control box may need to be slightly adjusted.  Did that, it works great.  I have installed the bridge to enable it to be removed from the layout if need be with little effort. It can be lifted up & away quickly. Next, control panel with toggles/leds for turntable widgets.  Also shown in pics working on passenger platforms between 4 tracks that will be under the Grand Central Terminal. Undecided exactly what to do. Thought about painting platform a concrete look, or getting software to print a brick or stone look?? Now platforms at track level. Should I raise?      All suggestions welcomed.    Thanks again for all the great posters on this forum.  You have helped been to build this layout!!

Thanks for looking.

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Images (3)
  • Lift bridge entering room
  • Lift bridge Looking from turntable
  • Lift bridge going out of layout
Steve Horvath posted:

Craig,

Good to see your still busy layout building. Amazing what you can do if you put your heart into it,keep up the great work. Keep posting and sharing with others,hope you and family have a great Christmas.

Steve H

Thank you Steve. Your  help/knowledge has been greatly appreciated!  Hope you have a great Christmas also.

Craig,

One seldom modeled feature of above track-level passenger terminals is the track crossings used by baggage handling equipment to ferry baggage to a single, centrally (or non-centrally) located baggage elevator.  Platforms at track level could easily add this feature, but would require metal stools scattered along the platform for passenger car egress.  Raising the platform to comfortable passenger car egress levels would require slight dips where the track crossings would be built.

In my older passenger rail days, I remember seeing both methods employed.

Chuck

Latest update on the SFRR.  Holidays, being sick have slowed progress.  Widgets at turntable complete & wired.  Placed Grand Central Teriminal on 2nd level after completing extension over lower tracks for GCT to sit on. Lift Bridge re-installed and working. Had problems with lift bridge going up/down, but thanks to the posts on this forum from several years back, was able to get it working.  Also completed 2nd control panel with toggles for the turntable widgets.  Backshop placed, tight fit.  In process of checking out backdrops, which should have been done long before now.  May be a big task installing. Looking for LEDs with shades to go between tracks under the GCT.   Thanks for looking.

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Images (9)
  • IMG_1395
  • IMG_1402
  • IMG_1395
  • IMG_1403
  • IMG_1400
  • IMG_0796
  • IMG_0800
  • IMG_0801
  • IMG_0794
Last edited by W&W

Update on South Fork Railroad.    Installed - stained fascia around edge of layout, second control panel(toggles/leds) for turntable & widgets),   three tunnel portals, stone walls(not completed yet),    began retaining wall between main/second level coming out from under Grand Central Terminal, started some landscaping placing cardboard strips for plaster wrap.  I am sort of at a halting point at the moment due to finalizing backdrops to be installed around the complete layout. This should have been done months ago, but due to circumstances it didn't happen. Reach ability is going to be difficult in areas, but believe I can do it with some good help, which so far I've had.  That about covers what has been done since my last post.     Thanks for looking.    All comments, suggestions welcomed as this FORUM has greatly helped me with constructing my layout.

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Images (8)
  • Stone wall: Stone wall started
  • Stone/PortalFascia: Stone wall/Tunnel Portal
  • Tracks under GCT: Retaining Wall installed
  • Entering room: Fascia Installed
  • Control Panels/Fascia: TT Control Panel Tunnel Portal installed
  • Hellgate/River: Working on river
  • TT Area: Working on landscaping
  • Upper Rail Yard

Craig,

It's coming along nicely!

While a little expensive, a topside creeper is handy for the reach, installing the backdrops and maintenance.

Also, Clarke Dunham and Team built a handy ladder to do the same thing - see the 12/13/16 post and photos.

We used some rubber backed carpet tiles on the track and layout and some planks on top for access on the museum layout. Ok for crawling out for short time tasks, but not a good working position for setting backdrops.

Thanks for update.

Moonman posted:

Craig,

It's coming along nicely!

While a little expensive, a topside creeper is handy for the reach, installing the backdrops and maintenance.

Also, Clarke Dunham and Team built a handy ladder to do the same thing - see the 12/13/16 post and photos.

We used some rubber backed carpet tiles on the track and layout and some planks on top for access on the museum layout. Ok for crawling out for short time tasks, but not a good working position for setting backdrops.

Thanks for update.

Carl,

The Clarke Dunham team built ladder I s a good idea!

Thanks.

Also, Carl, Mark & RTR12,  THANK YOU for your comments.    Appreciate.

Finally started on installation of backdrops.  First 2 of 9 up on wall.  Third river/Manhattan scene behind Hellgate bridge to be mounted on wall. Mounting backdrops on Masonite away from layout, then placing on wall using Industrial Strength Velcro to hold on wall. Most sheets of Masonite are 8' long. Two other sheets are 9'5" and 9'10". 

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Images (2)
  • NYC high rises
  • More NYC highrises
Last edited by W&W

Craig,

The backdrops look great!  I did not know there was an industrial strength Velcro that could hold Masonite up on the walls.  I don't know if I will do that with my backdrops, but I can think of lots of used for an industrial strength Velcro.  Thanks for the tip!!

Having never been to New York City, will the backdrop behind the Hellgate bridge be a good representation of the portion of Manhattan at that end of the bridge?

Mark Boyce posted:

Craig,

The backdrops look great!  I did not know there was an industrial strength Velcro that could hold Masonite up on the walls.  I don't know if I will do that with my backdrops, but I can think of lots of used for an industrial strength Velcro.  Thanks for the tip!!

Having never been to New York City, will the backdrop behind the Hellgate bridge be a good representation of the portion of Manhattan at that end of the bridge?

Mark,

Industrial Strength Velcro can be purchased at Lowes. I got mine from Amazon cheaper and no shipping fees. So far it is working great. It brings sheet out from wall very little, approx. 1/8". I did not want to glue directly to drywall in case down the road I wanted to remove the backdrops and/or the layout. I figured less damage would be done to the drywall, if any, by using small strips of Velcro. First three sheets of Masonite will be free hanging, no bottom support, majority of remaining sheets will be resting on plywood.

Scene behind the Hellgate is a river, brush on both sides with distant view of Manhattan(small images to reflect distance). By looking at pictures of the actual view, hopefully what has been created will be somewhat representive.  I've never been there, just relying on pics I've seen.  Due to Hellgate's closeness to wall, scene may be hard to see unless you are looking thru Hellgate. 

Thanks for the comments and looking.

Craig,

I know what you mean not wanting to do too much damage to the drywall.  I just finished painting my new train room last Saturday.  I had to patch a lot of holes, because our daughter had hung shelves all over 2 wall.  I told her she could.  She vacated the room after getting married last fall.  I don't want too much damage for my wife to worry about if I pass on or become disabled.  She would have enough to get a handle on finances and maintenance which I handle.

Mark Boyce posted:

Craig,

I know what you mean not wanting to do too much damage to the drywall.  I just finished painting my new train room last Saturday.  I had to patch a lot of holes, because our daughter had hung shelves all over 2 wall.  I told her she could.  She vacated the room after getting married last fall.  I don't want too much damage for my wife to worry about if I pass on or become disabled.  She would have enough to get a handle on finances and maintenance which I handle.

Mark,

Your comments concerning your wife reflect exactly how I feel, and my reasons for not gluing. Will the Velcro hold over time, only time will tell. I did pull one piece of Velcro off the drywall and relocate it with no damage to the drywall.

 

Craig,

One thing I hate about drywall, as compared to a real plaster wall like where I grew up, is how sometimes when you take something down, not just the paint comes off, but the drywall paper outer covering tears off too.  That happened on a few of my daughter's shelves.  Then I had a wider spot to Spackle as opposed to just a screw hole.  I wonder in time if the sticky Velcro will do that.  Well, the only way to avoid it is to have the backdrop attached to the layout bench-work and free standing from the wall.  We will see what I come up with; it won't be until next winter now.

With my friend  Joe, we have continued to install backdrops. Seven panels installed, two more to go.  As you can see by the loose backdrops in places, I have not sealed overlaps from one panel to the next for most.  

Overall, waiting to install backdrops in my case later in the layout build, has been time consuming, but not as bad as I envisioned, due to hard to reach areas etc.  

My choice of backdrops from options available that I had looked at from various vendors has been satisfactory.  I do feel that adding backdrops to the walls has made a difference in the looks of the room and has enhanced the layout in my opinion. 

All comments/opinions welcomed on appearance of backdrops.

Thanks for looking.

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Images (5)
  • Pennsylvania mountain area
  • Mountain area in Pennsylvania
  • Mountain area in Pennsylvania
  • NYC high rises
  • Looking at Manhattan behind Hellgate
Last edited by W&W

Having recently completed installation of all backdrops, I am at the stage of starting landscaping.  Today I started doing plastering of the banks along the grades for the Mainlines.  This is my first attempt of doing landscaping & it seemed to go ok.  Also, took couple pics of trains entering Hellgate bridge.  I'm pleased with backdrops beside the Hellgate showing the river & Manhattan in the distance.  Also starting to unpack different trains out of their boxes for the first time and enjoying seeing and running them.

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Images (5)
  • IMG_1038
  • IMG_1035
  • IMG_1036
  • Amtrak &. CSX: Entering NYC on Hellgate Bridge
  • NS Executive Train: Leaving NYC on Hellgate
Chooch posted:

Hi, I just reread your post from beginning to end, again, and just as I found it the first time nothing but very high standards and first rate workmanship. Congratulations on your layout and your obvious dedication. I look forward to further posts. Thank you for sharing your progress. Rich

Chooch,

Thank you much for your kind words. I'm having fun and like a kid at Christmas when I open a box for the first time with a train etc that I've purchased over the years. Trying to get as much done as I can now due to needing both knees replaced.  Thank you again.

 

 

Really starting to take shape!! Looks very nice. Yours is still one of my favorite track plans and layouts.

Did you glue your Flexxbed down, if not how did you fasten it down? Then how did you secure the Atlas track to it? I am using the same thinkg on my layout and just wondering how you handled all the attaching. I haven't read this entire thread for some time now, if it has already been explained, just let me know and I will go back and re-read the thread. Was thinking of doing that anyway just to refresh my tired old memory. 

Good luck with your knees too. Some folks I know have been really happy with the outcome of their knee replacements. I have only one that needs work, been putting it off as long as I can. It has actually improved somewhat since I retired. No longer keeps me up at night anyway.

Last edited by rtr12
rtr12 posted:

Really starting to take shape!! Looks very nice. Yours is still one of my favorite track plans and layouts.

Did you glue your Flexxbed down, if not how did you fasten it down? Then how did you secure the Atlas track to it? I am using the same thinkg on my layout and just wondering how you handled all the attaching. I haven't read this entire thread for some time now, if it has already been explained, just let me know and I will go back and re-read the thread. Was thinking of doing that anyway just to refresh my tired old memory. 

Good luck with your knees too. Some folks I know have been really happy with the outcome of their knee replacements. I have only one that needs work, been putting it off as long as I can. It has actually improved somewhat since I retired. No longer keeps me up at night anyway.

RTR12,     I did not glue the Flexxbed. It is held in place with the screws used to secure my Alas O track.  So far it has worked well. Whenever I get around to ballasting the track, the ballast will also secure both track & Flexxbed & hide the few seams showing between sections.  I don't like gluing anything if I can get away with it.  

As to the knees, I've been putting replacement off for a good while, had cortisone shots in both on 5/1/17 which has helped(temporary fix). Not looking forward to surgery whenever I decide to do it.

Thank you for following my layout & your kind words.

 I did put some plaster over some of the plaster cloth today. A new video coming soon.

Last edited by W&W
W&W posted:
rtr12 posted:

Really starting to take shape!! Looks very nice. Yours is still one of my favorite track plans and layouts.

Did you glue your Flexxbed down, if not how did you fasten it down? Then how did you secure the Atlas track to it? I am using the same thinkg on my layout and just wondering how you handled all the attaching. I haven't read this entire thread for some time now, if it has already been explained, just let me know and I will go back and re-read the thread. Was thinking of doing that anyway just to refresh my tired old memory. 

Good luck with your knees too. Some folks I know have been really happy with the outcome of their knee replacements. I have only one that needs work, been putting it off as long as I can. It has actually improved somewhat since I retired. No longer keeps me up at night anyway.

RTR12,     I did not glue the Flexxbed. It is held in place with the screws used to secure my Alas O track.  So far it has worked well. Whenever I get around to ballasting the track, the ballast will also secure both track & Flexxbed & hide the few seams showing between sections.  I don't like gluing anything if I can get away with it.  

As to the knees, I've been putting replacement off for a good while, had cortisone shots in both on 5/1/17 which has helped(temporary fix). Not looking forward to surgery whenever I decide to do it.

Thank you for following my layout & your kind words.

 I did put some plaster over some of the plaster cloth today. A new video coming soon.

Ok, thanks. I was actually looking for an alternative to glue as well. Your method sounds like something I might just have to try. I will be watching for the new video. 

Any way that you could ease up on your knees (activity wise) a little? It would really probably have to be quite a lot of easing up. Anyway, that is what really helped my one knee and might give you a little longer to put things off? Anyway, just a thought. 

 

RTR12 and Craig,

I think there is no reason to glue roadbed down when you have the screws holding the track down.  At least I haven't seen a problem.

As to the knees, I had most the miniscus removed from one about 10 years ago.  It gives me some pain, but not like before I got a desk job and quit crawling around on the floor as a telecom technician.  I try to get on my knees as little as possible 

My wife has had one replacement in Jan 2016 and needs the other done but the surgeon wants her to wait at least another year.  He isn't the one having to put up with the pain.  Shots never have helped either of us.

Mark,

I also had a job that required climbing ladders, scaffolds, equipment, etc and also crawling around in commercial HVAC equipment. After being retired for about 1.5 years and getting off my knee as much as I could, it started to feel a lot better. Now after 5 years it's not bad at all, but it took time. I almost can't believe the difference in it now. That's what I was trying to tell Craig above. Might help him too, you never know.  

Continuing to do some landscaping, not a finished product yet.  Not turning out to look exactly what I wanted so far, but it is ok for my first time plastering, painting, etc.    I'm excited to recently have found someone to build a replica of the NYC Met Life building that is behind the Grand Central Terminal. They are also constructing a high rise building that will be adjacent to the Met Life, & a business flat structure to go below the backdrop in an area where wall is showing under the backdrop, and a concrete fence to go around two sides of the GCT.  All buildings will be lighted via LEDs & the ability to control lighting on each floor of the Met Life building.  These are to be completed by fall TCA YORK meet where I will pick them up.

IMG_1173IMG_1175IMG_1176IMG_1177IMG_1178IMG_1182

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Images (6)
  • South Fork Railroad
  • South Fork Railroad
  • South Fork Railroad
  • South Fork Railroad
  • Under Grand Central Terminal: SFRR
  • South Fork Railroad

I enjoy looking at the progress of a build such as this one and various others I have seen on the Forum. I am keeping mind some of these when it comes time to rebuild my current layout(current one is not what I really want, but gives me an area to run trains). Other things need to be done before I can do what I would really like to do.

I have not posted in awhile due to summer activities.  Getting back into layout now. I have included some pics of items nearly ready to place on layout.

Pic 1 is a completed Met Life Building that I had built. It is completely lighted w/LEDs & has the capability of having the interior floors furnished.  It will sit directly behind the Grand Central Terminal just like it does in NYC.

Pic 2 is one of the street entrances.

Pic 3 is another high rise building(Rocker bldg) that I had constructed. It is completed now, also fully LED lighted & can have interior furnished.

Pic 4 is a retail flat, LED lighted, that will go under my backdrop area coming into the train room to hide the wall under the backdrop due to track incline/decline.

The above items were built by    East Coast Enterprises    & will be on display at their Orange Hall booth at TCA YORK next Thursday/Friday.  I plan on picking them up late Friday afternoon  Can’t wait to see them & get them on my layout.

Pic 5 shows the Menards Royale YORK Hotel I recently purchased

Pic 6 shows a change I just made on my upper level industrial yards. I added a yard for the intermodal crane behind the coal tipple & spaced out a little two yards.  Gives me some more car storage area.

Pic 7 Finally unpacking MTH operating accessories (McDonalds, 76 Gas Station, Fire Station) I’ve bought thru the years & trying to see where I can place them.

That’s it for now. Hope to see you at TCA York next week.

 

 

96A58F35-C9F9-4FE8-A708-BDEDF402AF55

874DCA47-D792-4A34-A197-4CEC482DD3B080487E4C-BB5E-47E5-B237-6FC1D4840F50FBE8398E-E723-4359-93B2-73F0B168EC413CDF7FAA-21B8-4CCF-9BF9-BF8F451519DA0EEBE954-F968-433D-8CD2-EE5ACA938BFA5FF5AACA-8040-41F1-9C21-EFD7D633E580

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Images (7)
  • MET LIFE NYC: South Fork Railroad
  • Met Life entrance: South Fork Railroad
  • Rocker Building high rise: South Fork Railroad
  • Retail area flat: South Fork Railroad
  • Menards Royale York Hotel: South Fork Railroad
  • Upper level industrial yards: South Fork Railroad
  • NYC area around GCT: South Fork Railroad
Last edited by W&W

W&W, well, here it is October 13th, Friday the 13th, and all I can say is, You are a fast worker, or have a great team of helpers. I see that Steve Horvath has given you an affirmative, as well as Many others, and I do to. We used 90 % Atlas O trackage on our layout and am well pleased. I actually got back into the hobby do to Atlas O Track, and of course Lionel TMCC/Legacy Command Control.  I compliment your trackwork, and Yes, it’s time to get the trains out of the boxes and have Fun. Your collection is amazing, your plan enables you to run long scale like trains. Thanks for posting and We look forward to your progress. If you are ever in Tennessee, come see me, Leapin Larry.

Thank you all for the encouraging comments.  Makes building the layout even more fun especially since I had no previous woodworking/electrical skills.  Being on this forum has been beneficial for ideas, problem solving incidents, questions answered, etc.  Also I have had some invaluable construction help from my friends Joe & Obsidian. A BIG thank you to Steve Horvath for his efforts & advice in designing the electrical design.  Thanks for the invite LEAPINLARRY & you are likewise welcome here.

Last edited by W&W

One of things I like the most about this layout is that its has a triple line main.  This was a feature that Craig insisted on and was challenging for me to design.  In effect he gets 50% more mainline from the same two line bench work.  We chose Atlas track because it it had a wide variety of curves sizes that nested neatly @ 4.5" from center rail.   While this is not enough space to comfortably run articulated steamers side by side around curves, it does has a very prototypical appearance.   Craig may say he's a novice layout builder but he laid his track like a pro making his own track distance jig from a 2x4.  This allowed him to maintain perfect separation between lines even going around curves.  Track and layout look great now, once ballasted it will be fantastic.  

Getting to work on some of the items I picked up at York TCA Friday.  

East Coach Enterprises  (ECE)  made a retail flat complex by my specs, completely lighted by LEDs (can be furnished)  to go under my backdrop in an area that the backdrop is elevated from the main level due to tracks ascending/descending elevation. 

East Coast Enterprises also made by my specs the Met Life Building to go behind the Grand Central Terminal. Installed the base unit, which contains the first 5 floors.  Need to install the remaining 15 floors. Building is in four sections.

Also installed the Rocker office complex made by ECE next to GCT. Both buildings completely lighted by LEDS, and ready for furnishings on each floor. The Met Life & Rocker buildings have each floor lighted by LEDs & each floor can be furnished.

Drilled and ran electric wires & basically made sure buildings would fit where I envisioned them. So far placement is working out.  Not sure how I will place the McDonalds, Firehouse, Station platform, swings etc. yet. 

Can’t wait to get the entire Met Life installed. It will be 2-3” from the ceiling.

Thanks for looking. 

2755441D-ADB8-4498-8A50-37988E594E9DC538A127-DAF3-46EE-82A8-32D13C5BF83222D377FE-6B92-470D-A66E-D9957909D6670B4439AF-A798-45A9-ABB5-76D82A770416CB03E33C-8B53-4ADF-9B61-B1D2A76CB51B14E1E223-061D-4C1E-A8CA-7D2F31DDD9778297E16B-0379-4786-A500-FD9013FDD2EC8B790FFC-C7DD-4045-96F0-F298FD0B546D

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Images (8)
  • Retail area flats: SOUTH FORK RAILROAD
  • Met Life Base: SOUTH FORK RAILROAD
  • Entrance to Met Life: SOUTH FORK RAILROAD
  • Street between Met Life/Grand Central Terminal: SOUTH FORK RAILROAD
  • Grand Central Terminal: SOUTH FORK RAILROAD
  • Shot of GCT area: SOUTH FORK RAILROAD
  • GCT area: SOUTH FORK RAILROAD
  • GCT area: SOUTH FORK RAILROAD
W&W posted:

Getting to work on some of the items I picked up at York TCA Friday.  

East Coach Enterprises  (ECE)  made a retail flat complex by my specs, completely lighted by LEDs (can be furnished)  to go under my backdrop in an area that the backdrop is elevated from the main level due to tracks ascending/descending elevation. 

East Coast Enterprises also made by my specs the Met Life Building to go behind the Grand Central Terminal. Installed the base unit, which contains the first 5 floors.  Need to install the remaining 15 floors. Building is in four sections.

Also installed the Rocker office complex made by ECE next to GCT. Both buildings completely lighted by LEDS, and ready for furnishings on each floor. The Met Life & Rocker buildings have each floor lighted by LEDs & each floor can be furnished.

Drilled and ran electric wires & basically made sure buildings would fit where I envisioned them. So far placement is working out.  Not sure how I will place the McDonalds, Firehouse, Station platform, swings etc. yet. 

Can’t wait to get the entire Met Life installed. It will be 2-3” from the ceiling.

Thanks for looking

Chris......this is amazing!

Peter

Mark Boyce posted:

Chris,

I saw the East Coast Enterprises Met Life Building at York.  Is yours the same size as the one they had on display?  I believe so from your photos.  Regardless, it is impressive, as the Grand Central Terminal is from a different era!  Thank you for introducing yourself to me at the York OGR meeting!!

Mark, 

My Met Life was on display at York waiting for me to pick up as well as the flat and Rocker Building.  I love it so far. Can’t wait to get it fully assembled/wired.  Hopefully behind the GCT, it will fulfill what I envisioned the scene I desired. I wanted the GCT to be the focal point when entering the layout room, with the Hellgate Bridge in the background, and the Lift Bridge in the foreground. Thanks for the comments.

Craig (not Chris)

Mark Boyce posted:

Craig,

Sorry on your name!!!  I did know better!  

Then I saw THE Met Life Bldg!  Very good!  Looking forward to seeing how all the landmark structures fit in together on the layout!

Mark, no problem. Peter got my name wrong in an earlier post, which may have thrown you off.  I most likely have been called much worst!

Craig

Moonman posted:

That's good you posted the link, Carl.  As a subscriber I already had it, but never thought to post.  I want to add to my previous comment that the video itself is great.  It looks very professional!  One of my sons-in-law is a videographer, and I am starting to notice things I didn't before.  He does the whole works from videoing events, to editing, to adding captions, music, and voice to the final product.

I was pleasantly surprised yesterday upon opening to the “Reader’s Rail” section of my just arrived FEBRUARY/MARCH Run 297 issue of OGAUGE RAILROADER magazine.  I noticed a picture and small article titled “A Great Beginning” of my SOUTH FORK RAILROAD.  I am honored to have a pic/write-up of my layout in the “Reader’s Rail”  section of this great magazine. Thank you Editor-in-Chief, Alan Miller. 

Have not posted in awhile. Finally beginning to ballast track with Brennan’s ballast.  Needed to get ballasting completed in areas I won’t be able to access easily after city scene is completed. Have placed city scape buildings for ideas on how to place. Will be picking up a 5-story building from East Coast Enterprises (ECT) next week at York. Plans are to finish city after York. Buildings are from Ameri-Towne, Woodland Secenics, MTH, Menards and custom built designed buildings from East Coast Enterprises, T.W. Trainworx.             Small article/pic in the OGR Jun/Jul issue.1234294B-59F5-4F23-B7FF-B481AEE5ADD367F71D8F-07C0-42A2-9629-E882F50E011D47D508AB-E66B-4292-AB72-BD34E2F3EFC74DC1E307-6A8E-49FB-9B81-2EA5372852859CCCDC46-C78D-45BE-AF69-DFA3E61DC1EE

Attachments

Images (5)
  • Ballasting
  • Ballasting
  • City scene
  • City scene
  • Grand Central Terminal, Met Life Etc.
W&W posted:

Have not posted in awhile. Finally beginning to ballast track with Brennan’s ballast.  Needed to get ballasting completed in areas I won’t be able to access easily after city scene is completed. Have placed city scape buildings for ideas on how to place. Will be picking up a 5-story building from East Coast Enterprises (ECT) next week at York. Plans are to finish city after York. Buildings are from Ameri-Towne, Woodland Secenics, MTH, Menards and custom built designed buildings from East Coast Enterprises, T.W. Trainworx.     Small article/pic in the OGR Jun/Jul issue.

Craig,  

Your layout is looking good!  And congrats of the photo in OGR.  It shows up great in the digital edition viewed on the iPad.

Cheers, Bryan

Craig,

This is turning out really well. You had a good vision of what you wanted. The execution is delivering!

A feature that I really appreciate is in the first photo. You put down the trackside weeds first and then the ballast.

I see so many layouts with a nice neat line separating the two because the weeds/grass were put on last.

Are you enjoying the operation or running of the trains? The track plan seemed to have good play value.

Moonman posted:

Craig,

This is turning out really well. You had a good vision of what you wanted. The execution is delivering!

A feature that I really appreciate is in the first photo. You put down the trackside weeds first and then the ballast.

I see so many layouts with a nice neat line separating the two because the weeds/grass were put on last.

Are you enjoying the operation or running of the trains? The track plan seemed to have good play value.

Carl,

Thank you for your comments.  I have enjoyed running the trains, although I have not run trains as much I would like, due to layout construction.  I’m at the point to get the city done soon, then finish up the ballasting. Layout won’t be completed at that point, but I plan to run trains more then.  It’s been fun.         Will take a break and go to YORK on Friday.  

Last edited by W&W

Just installed South Fork Railroad’s(SFRR) main headquarters in NYC in front of  Grand Central Terminal and the MET LIFE Building.  SFRR Hdqtrs and the MET Life buildings, tall building beside GCT, and retail flats area(not shown)were all custom built by  Stan  of  EAST COAST ENTERPRISES.    Each floor has LED lighting & custom lasered tile floors.   I am very pleased with Stan’s work.

The other buildings are Woodland Scenics, Ameri-towne, MTH, and Menard’s York Hotel. I have made much progress on my NYC area.  I am continuing to do landscaping and ballasting track.  I am hoping to move to the other side of the layout(Turntable, yard areas) soon and start landscaping, ballast track, and install buildings.

Thanks for viewing.

E0B57501-9470-40F4-B019-90535B420B869B44A3D2-FA3E-4B36-93AA-1EF933939A98AD938DCD-925E-4D32-A4C4-11A2807548F3A49EBE34-E482-4C96-A4BC-EEF5516211EF75905D83-09E8-4A78-A17D-36BD2CA23D6C

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Images (5)
  • South Fork RR NYC HQTRS
  • GCT/surrounding area
  • GCT & surrounding area
  • SFRR HQTRS
  • SFRR HQTRS/busy GCT.
Last edited by W&W
Obsidian posted:

Craig,

Looks great!   I really like the choice of low buildings and angling the street so visitors can easily view the street scene.   It also creates a sense of 'depth'.  The Yellow cabs are classic NYC, nice touch.

Ken

Thanks Ken.  

Added stone to wall to see how it looks. What do you think?  Also added more fence coming out from Gtand Central Terminal. Still have lots of landscaping touches to complete.

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Last edited by W&W

Craig,

Very good workmanship and many ideas when I finally get the space. I have started planning and all the ideas need to come before the build. Just starting to read through the layout section to put all the ideas together.  So far I know there will bee a military base, Freight yard, and I guess you have to have a town of some type.  I like the way you documented your build and it sounds like your knowledge came from the forums.  That is good to know and I truthfully look forward to future updates. 

Thank you Sully & RTR12 for the kind words.

I did learn a lot from this forum after starting my layout. From the beginning I knew I wanted to focus on the NYC Grand Central Terminal with as close a copy of the Met Life building behind the GCT.  I am pleased how that scene turned out.  I also knew what trains/accessories I had collected thru the years, therefore I wanted to use as much of my collection that I could.  I accomplished using a lot, but I ran out of space.  I also knew I wanted 3 mainlines to enable running a minimum of 3 trains at once.  I can run 6 fairly long trains.  I also knew I wanted as many yards I could squeeze into the plan to enable storage of cars/engines.  I have some long yards, but I wish I had more. Backdrops were my hardest thing to find. I knew what I wanted, but couldn’t find it.  What I ended up with is close.

I have been lucky to find vendors who helped me with accomplishing my wishes.

I basically knew what I wanted from the beginning, and for the most part have to date accomplished my wishes. 

Moonman posted:

That was fun, Craig! 

I am still not a fan of the pointy corners in the aisle.    I would have a added a scene of the connector panel from Montanarailpower with some electric buzzing or lightning effects.

Carl,

I understand your “pointy corners in the isle” comment, but I’m not sure what else I could have done considering the room size, & the layout plan. The layout plan was to get as much of the items I had obtained thru the years on the layout with a three track mainline.  I could have had a completely different layout design I guess. The “pointy corners” have not posed any problems.   I could have rounded the one corner, but didn’t. I like the electric buzzing/lightning effects you suggested.  I have been considering installing an audible thunder storm/lightning effect in the area behind the Hellgate Bridge.

I have been considering adding a larger train room to the house, but at my age & the associated costs I’m not sure that would be a wise investment. I held off building the existing layout knowing I needed a bigger train room, but decided to proceed with what I had and am glad I did due to the fun in constructing the layout and being able to run trains.

 

Last edited by W&W

Craig,

That film was awesome!   I see you found iMovie.   I use that for all of my films.   I think your layout is plenty big, scenery well done, and is fun to operate.   I'd say 90% of ppl on this forum wish they had the dedicated train room you have.   Imagine if you were still waiting to build that bigger room and were not able to run trains today.  Besides, as you now know, the bigger you plan, the more time, effort and money it takes to execute.

Ken

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