The Harpers Ferry Layout II - N&W Class J comparison

Looks like a great start. Keep the progress coming.

Dave

I think that's going to be an awesome layout.  I assume you are aware of the article in the attachments?  Perhaps even using the track plan?

Best,

George

Harpers Ferry is one of my all-time favorite places.  Looking forward to seeing your work unfold, Obsidian!

Glad to see you finally getting started on your new layout!!

Have to agree, Harpers Ferry is a pretty special place for sure. Walked all over the place with a Volksmarch group, and the scenery is spectacular! I didn't see John Brown driving any of those engines!

ECI

Looking forward to more pics......the former layout was great and I anticipate that this one will be too!

Peter

I'm glad you are finally able to start building the new Harpers Ferry layout!  I'll look forward to seeing your progress!

Hi Neighbor!

thank you for all this work in sharing your layout!  That is a very impressive video for the benchwork (still have to watch some others).  What a great area to model.  Our Leesburg troups have hiked all over that area and my boys and I would take the train from there to DC union station every chance we got.  Go over to the museum in Brunswick.  I think it has so much great history at Harpers Ferry along with Point of Rocks.

I am a recent convert from HO to O (trying to do both) and currently only have an oval to run my EM-1 and the capitol limited on but am trying to expand in my basement and planning a larger layout in our loft in NC that is being built.  Just got a hold of the book on building O gauge layouts from here on the O gauge site and that was good information.  I did L grid benchwork for HO and have done 1x4 and birch plywood on 2x4 48" saw horses for the oval.  Your approach is much more in line with the book (compendium of backshop articles I think it is, dont have it with me to reference).   This is all new to me so your videos and work are very helpful in figuring out what a next step layout in VA will be.  Thank you for all the work it takes to share this!

BTW are there any clubs in out area?

You’re off to a good start. The plan looks great.

Andy

I blocked out some time and got some help on the layout benchwork over the weekend.   Here is a my latest video that details the 'modified L-Girder' technique that I'm using.  Also, I added some overhead LED lighting bars to the train/storage room.   Next step is to buy 4x8 sheets of either OSB or Plywood.   I know ply is the best but also more expensive choice.   If you have used OSB please let me know your pros/cons.   As always, thanks for watching and please show your support by subscribing and liking.

Ken

The videos are a nice precursor for what will follow. Well thought out and executed benchwork is the key to a great layout. Nicely done.

Andy

Nice video showing what you are doing Ken!  That will be nice as you proceed!

Ken, looks great.  I used osb on my 40x50 layout, been up about 12 years and no issues.  Less costly than plywood.

The OSB on my current layout was reused from my previous layout. If you brace it every 24" it will not sag. Has been in use since 2011.

Ken.....love your videos......I love the way you explain what you are doing!

Peter

Hey thanks all for your helpful comments and encouragement.   I'm documenting my progress with videos in part because most other layout builds don't show benchwork construction.   I may go with OSB since I won't be making grades with cookie cutter (planning on using Woodland Scenic 2-3% flexible grades).   Cost is a consideration as well.   My joists are 24" on center and I know 1/2 inch OSB will span without sagging.    I plan on gluing and screwing decking to joists.   Also thinking I should get my masonite backdrops painted sky blue AND mounted BEFORE decking gets in the way. 

@Mark Boyce posted:

I'm glad you are finally able to start building the new Harpers Ferry layout!  I'll look forward to seeing your progress!

Mark, thanks in part to you selling me that great Western Maryland RS diesel I'm thinking the phase II extension should be Cumberland.   Would make since it is 'up river' from Harpers Ferry.   I am also glad to get this layout going.   Been suffering train withdrawal since I haven't run trains in months (took down temp loop to make room for layout last winter).

We went with MDF on the last benchwork. Cost basis was about the same at the time. Definitely quieted the layout down from Plywood. Didn't need to use any foam so saved some money there.

@Obsidian posted:

Mark, thanks in part to you selling me that great Western Maryland RS diesel I'm thinking the phase II extension should be Cumberland.   Would make since it is 'up river' from Harpers Ferry.   I am also glad to get this layout going.   Been suffering train withdrawal since I haven't run trains in months (took down temp loop to make room for layout last winter).

Ken, I’m glad you like the RS3!  If you have room, an extension to Cumberland would be great!  If I had room, I would run an extension down the mountain and along the Potomac to Cumberland from the other direction!  The Cumberland station would be a great model.

Latest progress video (Episode 3).   Last (Harpers Ferry) table has been raised onto legs and joist added to form Potomac river shore.   These tasks would be nearly impossible without some help and I'm lucky my son is around to give his dad a hand.  Bought a few 4x8 sheets of 3/4" OSB for decking over 4th of July weekend.   Will feature in next video.  Wife thinks I should have had room finished with drywall before starting.   But then the room would have been "too nice" for a model train & storage.   This room is perfect, no windows, hvac & farthest from stairs with a single door.   I'm enjoying sharing my journey with you, please feel free to ask questions or comment.

@Juniatabilt posted:

Harpers Ferry is one of my all-time favorite places.  Looking forward to seeing your work unfold, Obsidian!

My favorite rail fanning location.   I love that the track layout has changed multiple times, thats why there is 3 bridges.   The fact that they picked up and moved the station to its current location, just like we do as modelers when we change the plan to make curves broader & safer.   I'll tell you a secret.... I'm looking forward to recreating the 'stretched rope' derailment that happened a few years ago on the Shenandoah sub.   My original plan had O54 curves on the Shenandoah sub but I used O72 for bigger engine compatibility.  I plan to include a trestle section through town.   Here is a video of the accident:  https://youtu.be/CQWw

@Robbin posted:

Hi Neighbor!

thank you for all this work in sharing your layout!  That is a very impressive video for the benchwork (still have to watch some others).  What a great area to model.  Our Leesburg troups have hiked all over that area and my boys and I would take the train from there to DC union station every chance we got.  Go over to the museum in Brunswick.  I think it has so much great history at Harpers Ferry along with Point of Rocks.

I am a recent convert from HO to O (trying to do both) and currently only have an oval to run my EM-1 and the capitol limited on but am trying to expand in my basement and planning a larger layout in our loft in NC that is being built.  Just got a hold of the book on building O gauge layouts from here on the O gauge site and that was good information.  I did L grid benchwork for HO and have done 1x4 and birch plywood on 2x4 48" saw horses for the oval.  Your approach is much more in line with the book (compendium of backshop articles I think it is, dont have it with me to reference).   This is all new to me so your videos and work are very helpful in figuring out what a next step layout in VA will be.  Thank you for all the work it takes to share this!

BTW are there any clubs in out area?

Howdy neighbor.   Would like to have you then perhaps when I'm running trains, your troop come by.  Hiking to Maryland Heights above Harpers Ferry is on my to-do for this summer.   I want to take some panoramic photos that may become backdrops.   Let me know if I can help with your track plan design.

Ken

Ken, It is looking good!  Gad your son was able to help you.  Whatever you want the walls to look like is good.  I have seen other modelers post photographs with that kind of basement insulation.  What is it made of, and how easy would it be to inadvertently poke a hole in it?  I'm sure it is much more resilient than what I imagine.

@Obsidian posted:

Latest progress video (Episode 3).   Last (Harpers Ferry) table has been raised onto legs and joist added to form Potomac river shore.   These tasks would be nearly impossible without some help and I'm lucky my son is around to give his dad a hand.  Bought a few 4x8 sheets of 3/4" OSB for decking over 4th of July weekend.   Will feature in next video.  Wife thinks I should have had room finished with drywall before starting.   But then the room would have been "too nice" for a model train & storage.   This room is perfect, no windows, hvac & farthest from stairs with a single door.   I'm enjoying sharing my journey with you, please feel free to ask questions or comment.

Great video, Ken........I love hearing about your technique!

Peter

Thanks for the video Ken, I enjoy the step-by-step.

Andy

Latest progress video (Episode 4).   Added OSB decking/table top and laying outer loop track.   As always I appreciate your questions and comments.   Thanks to all who recommended OSB.   Other than its weight it is working out good so far.   As always, please like the video and subscribe if you haven't already.   I've heard 'If you build it, they (in this case FedEx) will come.   Now that I am building a minimum O72 layout, I couldn't help but buy a MTH Premier articulated engine.   Will do a unboxing/test run video soon.   Going to have to make sure bridges are well supported since this thing weighs a ton ;-)

Looks great!  I forgot how wide the Potomac River is on your plan!  The bridges over it will look great!

@Mark Boyce posted:

Looks great!  I forgot how wide the Potomac River is on your plan!  The bridges over it will look great!

The railroad bridges over the Potomac are the most dramatic aspect of the location.   My previous layout river was about 3 feet.   This one is 4.  Still not even half the scale of prototype.   I plan on making/contracting the original Bollman Truss bridge that will be in front.  

I agree the river and bridges make the whole scene.  Harpers Ferry is so interesting!  That Bollman bridge will be great!!!

Excellent work Ken. I agree with you and Mark that the river and bridges will be the focus. You are showing the river off very well in the allowable space. I also prefer Atlas track and use it on my layout.

Andy

Love the videos, Ken.....and, especially love the concept......those bridges will be spectacular!

Peter

Latest progress video - Episode 5   Outer loop has been laid and partially test run.   I'm going to try to avoid the temptation of running trains since I would need multiple connections to run reliable.   Next I need to build the Potomac riverbed and get backdrops in place.   Right now the table tops are resting in place and can be moved so I can easily access backdrop 2x4 supports.   Can any of you eagle-eyed viewers tell me the name of the viaduct I plan to model?   Hint, B&O ;-).   As always, I really appreciate your comments and questions.

Your progress is looking good, Ken!  Are you planning to model the B&O Thomas Viaduct?

@Mark Boyce posted:

Your progress is looking good, Ken!  Are you planning to model the B&O Thomas Viaduct?

Ding, ding, ding!   Right answer.   Yes, I will have a viaduct that will resemble, albeit not nearly as long.   When the I get to that point in scenery I plan to swap out the existing O81-O90 curves (with short straight in middle) with a 108-99 curve track.   That curve is one of the first features visitors will see when they come through the layout room door.

Summer's almost over and time for me to refocus on the layout.   Been doing a lot of cycling, some travel, taking care of the fam and work.   I added a second power drop to the layout which is all that was needed to create a continuous powered loop.   So instead of putting up backdrops and building the river.... I RAN TRAINS! 

Looking good Ken. Nice smooth running with the additional drop.

Andy

It’s great when a layout gets to the point yours is.  You can work on so many things or just run trains!  😊

Thank you for sharing. Please continue to do so. I have never been to Harpers Ferry but from watching it on YouTube is looks like a fantastic place to go to. Please continue to post videos of your progress. Have a great day.

@Steamfan77 posted:

Looking good Ken. Nice smooth running with the additional drop.

Andy

Andy, we've been told to add drops every X feet but I think it depends on the track system you are using, the # of switches and even how new the track is.   I bought some of my Atlas O used but I'm using a lot of new connectors.   MTH DCS operators can send a command to the engine on track to show the track voltage on the remote as it goes around the loop.   I've used this feature on my previous layout to know where I need to add another drop (power connection).

So true Ken. I definitely over did it with the drops on my layout, but I’m happy with the signal and voltage. Using new connectors is a key I think. The results speak for themselves. I’ll check that feature out about the voltage, sounds interesting.

Andy

I've added a Lionel TMCC B&O EM-1 to my engine roster now that I have a minimum O72 loop.   To run in command control I got all of the Lionel/MTH components to run TMCC.   Although Legacy offers more features/sounds the models basically look the same.   Adding TMCC to my layout has made a much larger variety of engines available to me.   Not unlike when I got into MTH Premier with PS-1 engines I converted to PS2, the older (early 2000) engines are great values.   For those of you MTH DCS operators who haven't added Orange (or DCS Wifi app) to your Purple collection I hope this video is helpful.

This is a philosophical post.   Yet another weekend has slipped by and all I accomplished on my layout was a video on my TMCC setup.   Layout progress has been stalled ever since I started a new job.   I started the layout between jobs last June.  Its been keeping me busy (even on weekends) but it has made it more affordable for me to expand my collection a bit.   The time spent chasing the $$ is keeping me from pursuing passions like model railroading and cycling.   I'm approaching "early" retirement age (back in the day most retired at my age) and I'm thinking I could do more with less.   Working from home during COVID I learned that I can get work from anywhere (some part-time).   My retirement savings/pensions could pay existing bills.   I see so many of us work until they only have a few years to enjoy their trains, etc.   They may or may not complete their layout.

My Dad worked for the gov't well into his 80's.   Now he's too weak to enjoy his sailboat.  I don't see him as often as I'd like cause I work like 50hrs a week to keep up with younger coworkers.  I work online from moms house once a week but thats not really a visit since I'm busy all day.  If I retire early I'll have less money for stuff.   But I'll have more time to enjoy the stuff I've collected (and more importantly, my family & friends & dogs).  Last year I joined a bicycling club and I just achieved my annual mileage goal of 3000 miles.   I lost 20 lbs in the process and I'm in the best shape I've been in in a decade.  However, my senses aren't as sharp as they used to be and that is adding to my work stress.   I understand now fully why we model in O gauge (easier to see, hear, and manipulate).   As an extrovert (people person), I miss the daily relationships with coworkers that working from home doesn't satisfy.   Another adverse effect of the Pandemic.   So, should I get off the treadmill?   As a longtime forum member, I value your experiences and opinions.

This is a question only you can answer.  I "retired" earlier than I expected because my federal government employer eliminated (technically, reorganized) my position, affecting about 300 other similarly situated people.  We were all supposed to apply for other equivalent positions or take a downgrade and go back to our old positions.  Most were not being selected for the "equivalent" positions, and since I was only 2 years away from normal retirement (the downgrade would neither increase nor decrease my pension at this point), I simply retired.  Best choice I ever made.

I sleep better, spend more time with family and friends, travel more, and generally enjoy life more.  I spend more time with my hobbies, charitable activities, and reading stuff I never had time to read before.  My health wasn't real bad, but I now have time to take better care of myself exercise wise.

BUT, while I've been retired nearly 11 years, I do still miss the work camaraderie.  Many others that I know "tried" retirement and hated it because it seemed like their life lost purpose.  They then either went back to their old jobs, found new "time-filling" jobs, or continued living their lives in retirement misery.

This is why I say only you can answer the question for yourself.  Good luck with your decision.

Chuck

Chuck,  thank you for taking the time to read and reply to my post.   Your perspective is exactly the type of response I was looking for.   Not a "you should do this" answer but a life testimonial.   I think that the lack of interpersonal relationships with coworkers/customers is a main reason I don't find my current work as satisfying as when I worked for gov't (I'm a IT consultant now).  The gov't made my dad work from home during the Pandemic (which was healthier) but he really misses his coworkers relationships.   His work was his purpose.  He was unable to successfully transition his knowledge and skills to an online work environment so he retired.   He considers himself "unemployed" not retired now.  I'm glad to hear you are enjoying the extra time afforded by not working full time.   I plan to consult my financial advisor and make sure I could step off.   I also would like to start a coffee shop business with my son who is a "Coffee Master" at Starbucks.   So I guess don't want to stop work entirely, but I would like to have more time with family (thank God they all survived Pandemic) and friends (I lost one to Covid) and to pursue my other interest.

Ken

Ken, as Chuck mentioned, you know what is best for you and what carries more weight or has more meaning for you. I retired from my job in 2018 with the understanding that I would continue to work. I was lucky, and found a much less physically taxing job. I worked throughout the pandemic and started working from home three years ago. I know what you mean about the work atmosphere, but for me the new job didn’t have the same relationships. I do enjoy the work itself, but I find that doing something outside of work, even a small task or accomplishment is more rewarding than before. Maybe age has given me this perspective, I’m not sure. I’m not sure how much longer I’ll work. It’s still strange to think that I won’t be working anymore in the near future, but I have many other interests to fill up my day. Sometimes your first impression or instinct is the right one. Best of luck.

Andy

Ken, I can add in my experience.  In 2015, the company I worked for pushed another early retirement.  My name was picked, and I accepted the retirement, not knowing what I would do since I was only 59.  I was a telecommunications engineer, having been a technician for most of my working years.  I ended up working in an open ended contract for the same company for 3 years until a change in management cancelled the work we were doing.  After being out of work for 6 months, I realized how my skills were with old technology and couldn't find anything.  I took an entry level position at a cable TV company in technical support.  I absolutely hated that job.  I couldn't keep up the pace.  After less than a year, I finally needed knee replacement surgery, and told them I wouldn't be coming back when therapy was done.  Then the pandemic hit.  I ended up signing up for social security.  I then needed lumbar fusion surgery.  By this time my wife was having health problems, so we decided she should retire a year ago.  Money was tight, and I looked at several options, but wouldn't be able to keep up the pace.  My wife turned 62 in June, and we finally decided to take her social security as well, receiving her first payment last week.  I'll be 66 in 2 weeks, and know we are both done working, so we will make due with whatever we have.  We can start taking money from some of our investments if we need too.

I am an advocate of retiring as early as you can unless you have a job you really love and can physically handle it.  None of us knows how much time he or she has left.  Only you can decide since what is good for one isn't good for others.  I wish you well on your decision.

@Obsidian and all,  tough call when its your choice. Usually unpleasant when someone makes it for you.  I am 66+ at this point, still working at a desk job, and looking to "retire" by the end of May 2023, with "terminal leave" it may be the end of February. We have bought a new house to be close to our grandkids and are almost done with this one - fingers crossed the closing goes off without a hitch. For me having been invited to look for other opportunities at 55 (with 32 years of service / retirement eligible) it gave me a perspective I would not have had otherwise. If its time for you to go, then go do something else. Took me 5 months to land at the university and they wanted me there. What a refreshing perspective. 11 years later its time to move on, make room for the next generation and then find new things to learn and experience. Some of our interns are PhD students finalizing their work earning their degree. They are moving on to a new career and new challenges, but so am I, statistically I can expect another 20 to 30 years - wow looks like another career to me - and another opportunity for adventure. Guess what, now I have the time and resources (spent wisely of course)  to do the things I want to and drag a few along for the ride. 

You mention time and money. The money part is something you have to work out and feel comfortable with. Maybe spend less (except on trains of course) work part time, rearrange priorities... then of course there are the health issues, some of which impact what you can do - stories are all over this forum -  and then comes the time. That is our most precious commodity and the most uncertain. Make the time to spend with family and friends - make new friends. Funny, my grandkids triggered my getting back into model trains and ultimately finding this forum. So model railroading is certainly in the picture and railfanning and, well, who know what other doors will open for a new adventure. 

Best to all ... Jeff

@Mark Boyce posted:

Ken, I can add in my experience.  In 2015, the company I worked for pushed another early retirement.  My name was picked, and I accepted the retirement, not knowing what I would do since I was only 59.  I was a telecommunications engineer, having been a technician for most of my working years.  I ended up working in an open ended contract for the same company for 3 years until a change in management cancelled the work we were doing.  After being out of work for 6 months, I realized how my skills were with old technology and couldn't find anything.  I took an entry level position at a cable TV company in technical support.  I absolutely hated that job.  I couldn't keep up the pace.  After less than a year, I finally needed knee replacement surgery, and told them I wouldn't be coming back when therapy was done.  Then the pandemic hit.  I ended up signing up for social security.  I then needed lumbar fusion surgery.  By this time my wife was having health problems, so we decided she should retire a year ago.  Money was tight, and I looked at several options, but wouldn't be able to keep up the pace.  My wife turned 62 in June, and we finally decided to take her social security as well, receiving her first payment last week.  I'll be 66 in 2 weeks, and know we are both done working, so we will make due with whatever we have.  We can start taking money from some of our investments if we need too.

I am an advocate of retiring as early as you can unless you have a job you really love and can physically handle it.  None of us knows how much time he or she has left.  Only you can decide since what is good for one isn't good for others.  I wish you well on your decision.

Thank you so much for your reply.   I really appreciate you sharing you health issues since my deteriorated senses is a factor in my decision making.  I am "only" 59 but I have been working full time since I was 25 and I have over 35 years of gov't and consultant service.  I left my gov't job for a much higher paying contract position with another local gov't.   When COVID hit and revenues fell short, contract staff were released.   Luckily I found more work within a couple of months with a Turkish-based company serving a local utility.  Problem was they offered no benefits (including retirement) since unlike the US, Turkish citizens get state medical and retirement.   Next job was very technical and I had a hard time keeping up.   So if my career could be described as a cross country airplane flight its been pretty uneventful.   However, my destination airport is fogged in, and there is a strong cross wind on approach.   I'd like to stay aloft and divert to another airport with better weather but I'm low on fuel and I'm having technical issues.   That said the forecast is improving and other pilots (you guys) are reporting safe landings.   I'm looking forward to getting on the ground (retiring) and riding (playing with) the trains into (my layouts) town.

Winter is coming and I should be able to trade some of my outdoor cycling time for indoor layout building time.   Perhaps once I find a better work/life balance my retiring urges will subside.   I missed York, but went for a ride and took my wife to a black tie gala.

Balancing.

Ken 

Ken, I think stories like yours and mine are not uncommon.  They all have a different twist, but all provide for ‘interesting’ navigation!  You will arrive at the proper airport when the time is right.

As Red Green used to say, “I’m pulling for you.  We are all in this together”

Goal this winter was to build a floor to the Potomac River crossing on my layout.   Progress has been made and I'm experimenting with a novel technique for river water.   Let me know what you think.

Ken glad to see your progress on the bridges, etc. Can’t wait to see what you are doing with the water and am quite interested as we have a similar opportunity for a Roanoke River crossing and zero experience.

Please keep us informed.

Ken, you are making a great replica of Harpers Ferry!  The trains look great running through the bridges!  I’ll be glad to see how it progresses, too!

My retirement strategies: Save as much as possible in a retirement account while you are working. Pay cash wherever you can, like for a car. Pay your credit card bills in full every month. Pay down your mortgage with extra principal payments. Aim to be debt-free by the time you retire. Apply for Social Security as soon as you reach "full retirement age". Reduce your living expenses so you can live on your pension and Social Security, and avoid dipping into your savings as much as possible in retirement.

I've been retired 7 years.

Oh, and I'm enjoying following your progress.  I've found that I have an easier time modelling when I have a specific scene or location in mind.

@West Side Joe posted:

My retirement strategies: Save as much as possible in a retirement account while you are working. Pay cash wherever you can, like for a car. Pay your credit card bills in full every month. Pay down your mortgage with extra principal payments. Aim to be debt-free by the time you retire. Apply for Social Security as soon as you reach "full retirement age". Reduce your living expenses so you can live on your pension and Social Security, and avoid dipping into your savings as much as possible in retirement.

I've been retired 7 years.

Oh, and I'm enjoying following your progress.  I've found that I have an easier time modelling when I have a specific scene or location in mind.

I did 100% the same here, and have also been happily retired for about the same length of time.

Good advice for those not yet retired

Looks great - keep the updates coming - trains on bridges / always cool

Ken......it is looking great!

Peter

Absolutely superb!  I really like the video and the references to the prototype.  Excellent!

George

Excellent job Ken, the engines look great running across the bridges. That will make for a terrific scene.

Andy

I've been working on the backdrops for my layout lately.   The concept of attaching 4x8 sky blue painted masonite panels to the 2x4x8' benchwork posts is working.   

I've completed the panel installation and now need a printing service to print my 36"x72 backdrop photos.   I'll install the photos by trimming each print along the tree line like I did on my previous layout:

I need a recommendation for a large format (36"x 72") printing service that can print my backdrop photographs and ship to me.   Currently the decking is unsecured so I can move it out of the way and work on the backdrops without climbing onto the deck.  Once installed I'll be able to permanently attach my decks to the benchwork and lay track.

I added a couple of more 1x4 joists and 2x4 legs to reinforce certain parts of benchwork.  I've also stabilized my benchwork with angle braces.   Unlike my last layout which was secured to wall studs this room is unfinished and the benchwork needs to be stable on its own.

When we look at an unfinished room in the basement we see a train room.   She sees a storage room.   An element of any successful marriage is the ability to live together.   So for now the room looks a mess (I need to post a "Under Construction" sign on door).   She wanted me to have the room framed and drywalled.  Hah!  I know a trap when I hear it.  If the room had been finished she would have said it was "too nice" to be a dedicated train room.  When the layout is done I'll be able to hide storage items under the benchwork and behind skirts.   I do plan to have the studded wall shared with the rest of the basement drywalled so I can paint it sky blue as well.   Hmmm, should do that sooner (before laying track) than later since drywall finishing produces a lot of dust.

Ken, great video. I like the plan of working on the backdrops and leaving the room unfinished. Sometimes a good strategy is needed to keep the peace 😉

As far as a backdrop, I recently got one from here: https://railroadbackdrops.com/home/Contact

I’m happy with it, but not sure if they’ll use your photos or not. It’s worth asking.

Andy

Everything with the layout looks great!  The backdrop sheets seem to work well. 

Made good progress on the viaduct this week.

Nice! Rolling right along!

How do you like the battery powered jig saw? I'm still rocking the cord but I'm considering an upgrade. It would be awesome for stuff like this!

I retired just over one year ago. It appears I had a limited capacity to suffer fools gladly, and used it up. I went to a financial planner an old friend of my wife uses. I have no pension, only 401(k)/403(b)/IRA savings. He ran 100,000 Monte Carlo simulations and said there was an 89% chance our investments would last until we died (based on historical market performance).  He said if less than 86%, you should not retire. If more than 90%, your investing is too conservative. I second the idea that you must look after your health, meaning what you eat, regular exercise, and enough sleep. No point in being retired if you have to spend it in the doctor's waiting room, or hospital. I delight in retirement. There is no sense of urgency to complete things. I have accomplished many projects around the house and made much progress on my 20+ year-old layout, but don't sweat anything. It can wait. I began volunteering in the shops of the Wilmington & Western RR (historical steam), and continue to edit the Sentinel, the quarterly publication of the B&O Historical Society, as I have done for the past 6 years. I have ventured into new areas, including submitting an article to OGR that's supposed to be published later this year and a crossword puzzle I recently submitted to the LA Times. Continue to learn and stretch yourself, meet new people, get plenty of fresh air, and enjoy life. We all have earned our retirements. I heartily recommend it!

@BillYo414 posted:

Nice! Rolling right along!

How do you like the battery powered jig saw? I'm still rocking the cord but I'm considering an upgrade. It would be awesome for stuff like this!

The cordless jigsaw made this job so much easier.   I use to have a corded saw.  I have a collection of Ryobi battery tools so I already have a couple of batteries.   This saw was like $50 on Amazon without battery and came in 2 days.   My favorite tool for this project has been the cordless nail gun.   Next task is to cut the arches into masonite and bend across the front of the curve to make the facade.

Nice @Obsidian. The only downside to these cordless tools is the way you sort of get trapped in the brand haha but it's all good.

I still gotta catch up on your Youtube videos. I'm so far behind!

Ken, nice job. I imagine you have more control with the cordless? I might get one for myself. Can’t beat $50, not including the battery.

Andy

Completed basic construction of the viaduct.   Still needs scenery (stone wall facade).  Should be able to lay track and operate this section of layout soon.

@Obsidian posted:

Completed basic construction of the viaduct.   Still needs scenery (stone wall facade).  Should be able to lay track and operate this section of layout soon.

Ken.....magnificent!  Your craftsmanship is out of sight. Great choice of bridge to model!

I went looking for that bridge in 2015....it is only about 5 minutes off I-95 via Route 1 and I think it's a "must see" for train people......

Looking forward to the next set of pics/video!!!!

Peter

@Obsidian posted:

Completed basic construction of the viaduct.   Still needs scenery (stone wall facade).  Should be able to lay track and operate this section of layout soon.

I watched this morning when this was posted to YouTube.  Looks good!  Can't wait to see it finished.  I really like the step by step.  A dog bowl has been used in a few of my projects.

Ken, the viaduct looks great!  It has a very sturdy base too.  From the camera angle I couldn’t see where the missing underside of the arches were noticeable.  Of course if it is above someone’s eye level, they would see that.  

Peter, great photographs of the prototype!  Thank you for sharing them.

That thing is awesome! Definitely going to be a great place to rain fan on your layout.

Sorry for the long absence since my last layout post (death in the family & new work project).   Those of you who are subscribers to my Youtube already know that I've been running my new Lionel Chessie Greenbrier around the completed outer loop.   Benchwork done, bridges are now in place and inner/outer loop track laid. 

Very nice! The layout is coming along too. That river scene is going to be quite a sight.

Dave

Amazing. I love what you have done.

Ken, that engine looks and sounds great!  It is really a great match for the MTH passenger car set!  Wow! 

The river scene is going to look great!  You have done a nice job!

Latest addition to the layout.   Should look very prototypical running across the B&O bridge over the Potomac.  First video with with outer and inner loops going.   My 4K action cam takes a ride along too.

Very nice engine and running, Ken!  Trains running on both loops look great!

Just published latest layout update/overview video.   I go into detail about using various foam products to elevate track and create inclines.   More Potomac river railroad bridge history and inspiration.   Finally some train running action featuring recently added B&O, C&O and N&W engines.   I've gotten a lot of new subscribers since my Greenbrier video.   Will be trying to publish new videos twice a month.   Let me know what you want to see.   I've got the 'new train' bug bad now that I have a working layout.   Might go to York to meet other Youtubers (and buy trains ;-)

Very nice video, Ken!  I like how you have made sure all the track will work out properly with temporary support.  The layout is coming along nicely to depict Harpers Ferry!

Great start on what looks like a very interesting layout. I think it will be spectacular when the scenery is done Nice track plan, interesting to watch.

Ken.....you do great work! Love your explanations......you are a great teacher!

Peter

Nice curved viaduct.  Didn't watch all of your videos - have you posted anything showing the process of building it?

@Putnam Division posted:

Ken.....you do great work! Love your explanations......you are a great teacher!

Peter

Peter, thanks I really appreciate the compliment.   I used to teach a computer mapping (GIS) software class at the local University.   I enjoy sharing my project via YouTube since I don't know any local train guys.   I enjoy other peoples detailed descriptions of how they built there layout.   Before YouTube there was CD's and I really enjoyed ToyTrainsOnTrack Black Diamond Railroad series by Rich Battista.

@Bill Park posted:

Great start on what looks like a very interesting layout. I think it will be spectacular when the scenery is done Nice track plan, interesting to watch.

Bill, what you see is just phase 1.   I have an extension I've already planned that will increase main line track by about 30-40%.  That's the reason I used O-63 on inner loop so I could 'twist and fold' the dog bone in area near Potomac river.   Will post plan once I buy additional track.  I promised I wouldn't start on expansion until I got some of scenery done on East (viaduct) side of layout.

@Mallard4468 posted:

Nice curved viaduct.  Didn't watch all of your videos - have you posted anything showing the process of building it?

Yep, Episode 8.   Was challenging but fun.   Still have a lot of details I'd like to add to make it look more prototypical but its good enough to start adding terrain and a river through it.

It's really looking good, Ken!  I enjoy seeing your progress.  I love scenery and obviously so do you.

Art

@Chugman posted:

It's really looking good, Ken!  I enjoy seeing your progress.  I love scenery and obviously so do you.

Art

Chugman, I think of model trains as actors and scenery as the set.   A beautiful setting will make the ugliest actor look better.   My goal with this layout is to make scenes that are recognizable by their prototypes.   Unlike HO and smaller scales, it is challenging to represent O scale scenery in the space that most of us have.   For example the prototype Potomac river bridges on my layout are 2.5x wider.   Thanks for the compliment.

Another Lionel engine!   What happened to the MTH guy!?   I'll tell you...  I discovered that I can run TMCC effectively and cheaply with my DCS remote.   Since adding TMCC to the layout last year I've added 5 Lionel engines.  The TMCC engines are great values too, I paid no more than $800 for any of them.  All except the Legacy Chessie Greenbrier are TMCC (I run the Chessie with LionChief app and TMCC).   This C&O F19 Pacific has Railsounds 5 and honestly more detail than some MTH Premier and Lionel Legacy engines I have.   Check it out:

Please like and subscribe.   I'm trying to build the channel with my new layout.

That's a heck of a deal for such a beautiful engine!

Very nice engine.  I have one TMCC and one Legacy engine I run fine with DCS.

You handle that jigsaw like a Pro cutting those arches, and your speaking voice is among the best I've ever heard. The only detraction for a grumpy old 2 railer is that center rail!

ECI

https://youtube.com/shorts/whw...?si=V7aofstdiimly7na

Testing continues with my WM M2 Challenger 4-6-6-4.   As the name of engine implies it has 'challenged' some of my layout design decisions.   The swing out boiler of articulateds don't like S-turns or curves into bridges/tunnels (needs at least a 10" straight beforehand or boiler will clip bridge).  Atlas track is 4.5" on center which is barely enough to avoid the swing out boiler when it is on the inner curve.   On the plus side, several of my MTH articulateds (Challenger, Allegheny, Class A) will negotiate O-63 (my smallest mainline curve) without derailing.

Nice running.  It is good to test the engines' clearances everywhere before finalizing track leading to bridges.

Mark, you'll be glad to know that I've decided to extend the layout to Cumberland.   I originally was going to Martinsburg but with a handful of WM engines (expecting the Lionel 1309 next year) Cumberland was a better destination.   Besides the MTH passenger station that I already have closely resembles the Cumberland station.

The extension will turn my existing dogbone plan into a twisted, folded dogbone.   It'll add about 50% to mainline which will make runs a lot longer.  I had planned on waiting till I did some scenery but that would require nailing down track.   Testing has revealed that I need to completed track plan to make sure all fits in room.   Trying to include a O72 loop for Texan, EM1, Turbotrain, etc.

@Obsidian that's a smooth video. Have you had any trouble with articulated locomotives getting through switches?

Ken, that sounds great!  Yes, the 1309 would be a great engine to have!

Hey Mark, I've got the WM itch bad.   It gets worse during York week :-)

Glad I bought these new MTH WM coal hoppers.   Didn't realize MTH had added so much detail to newer models.   700 subscribers!   If you haven't subbed yet please do.   It really helps my channel and encourages me to make more content like this.

Ken Holbert's Trains

Ken, I've really enjoyed your recent videos. Looking forward to the next one. The Harpers Ferry layout is looking great - it's always nice to see what other local modelers are up to!

Ken, very nice WM cars!  Yes, MTH Premier cars are really great!  Nice purchase!!

Added a wiring panel to organize my track power and command control components.   Simple but very satisfying project that will enhance control of layout power and improve wire management.  No progress on real scenery or making track permanent since I plan to start expansion this winter.   Expansion will shift some existing track alignments.   Will post a track plan expansion vid soon.   Please subscribe if havent already.   I truly appreciate and welcome your feedback.

I wish I had noticed you posted a new video! I would have watched it when I sat down to eat dinner. I'll catch it tomorrow!

It's a timely video because I'm going to be approaching the point where I need to organize my track power.

Nice installation, Ken!  The trains run very smoothly!!

Happy New Year!   This video features all my Western Maryland trains and plans to expand layout to Cumberland.  Turned out to be a WM year.   Found the Challenger I'd been looking for, added a set of WM coal hoppers and box cars.   Santa gave me a Railking WM CSX Heritage caboose.

Ken, the caboose looks great!  I like the boxcars and hoppers.  The RailKing cars do have a lot of detail!  My Premier and Atlas cars have so much add on detail, I have to be very careful handling them with aging hands and eyes!  Whoops!  😬 Out comes the super glue bottle again!  🤦‍♂️

All the trains look great!  I do like the Challenger and I like your planned expansion to Cumberland!  Yes, it is a great ride!!

I'm continuing to test my collection on the new layout.   Have added extra clearance to S-curve at Harpers Ferry station to allow for articulated engine overhangs.   Also I've added a couple of J's to my N&W roster.   One is the Unshrouded that I've wanted for year and the 2nd is a newer PS2 model.   Please check out the comparison video of all 3 of my Class J's:

Obsidian - I love your layout and watching you build it.  I like your style and I can tell you are having fun, bravo.

I have fond memories of the time I visited Harper’s Ferry.  Long story short, I come from a family of 7 kids, I think we piled 5 of us into the family station wagon and did a road trip to the DC area prob around 76,  did all the sights, Gettysburg, that was creepy in a way, but the funnest part for me was HF.  True stories, I made my two little brothers walk with me half way across that black truss bridge you have on your layout.  We could see the water rushing below thru the ties, and the tunnel thru the mountain was just on the other side of the bridge, staring at you, just calling for a train to come bursting thru forcing us to jump into the river below.  We made it back out alive then we went to a small section of rocky beach at the juncture of the two rivers where there was the perfect stones for skipping against the current.  Ok, on any family road trip at this time the Guinness book of world records was a staple, a must, don’t get in the rear facing seat in the station wagon with 4 annoying siblings without it.  That said, I broke the world record not once, but 3x for skipping stones at that spot.  The record in the book was 16 skips, I had a 22, a 21 and an 18. One of my all time greatest athletic feats and I’m sure my stupid little brothers don’t remember it.  But I do, that is a really cool spot, Harper’s Ferry.

Keep going, love your layout, concept and execution.  Something tells me if I tried to walk across that bridge again I’d have a ball and chain on my leg in a hoosegow on the wrong end of the tracks this time.  Cheers W1