The Real Deal has started!

[LotsOfTrains!]

I have been thinking about a more permanent solution for running my n scale trains… I have a loop of Kato Unitrack that I can set up on the kitchen table, but there’s limited availability and no option for scenery…

After considering several options I’ve decided to build a modular layout to T-trak standards. This allows me to build a layout to fit my current space but also be easily moved and adapted to a different space. I don’t own the place so a large “built in” layout would be frowned upon, mobility is key…

The plan is to have a string of modules with a balloon track at each end for continuous running/railfanning, and a few sidings/industries for simple switching operations. Overall size is yet to be determined, and by definition is flexible…

So far I have built 3 single-size modules… no pics yet, it’s just 3 wooden boxes at this point…

[bigfoot21075]

Do you have a track diagram in mind?

[mrodtoo]

One way or another N Scalers find a way. @LotsOfTrains! may want to check out this YouTuber for some T Trak ideas. https://www.youtube.com/@kevinbrown104/featured

[LotsOfTrains!]

Do you have a track diagram in mind?

Nothing specific yet, but I know the basic setup will either be a single line of modules with balloon track modules at either end forming a single track dog bone configuration, or two rows of modules with the typical outside corner modules resulting in two loops. I’m leaning towards the latter, I kinda like the idea of two trains running at the same time…

[LotsOfTrains!]

One way or another N Scalers find a way. @LotsOfTrains! may want to check out this YouTuber for some T Trak ideas. https://www.youtube.com/@kevinbrown104/featured

Thanks! Lots of good stuff in his videos!

[Moose2013]

@LotsOfTrains!

Moose wondering: Perhaps you could build some quantity of the boxes, then test different arrangements of the Kato track on them to help see what feels right for you? Just a moose thought...

[LotsOfTrains!]

@LotsOfTrains!

Moose wondering: Perhaps you could build some quantity of the boxes, then test different arrangements of the Kato track on them to help see what feels right for you? Just a moose thought... https://www.nscale.net/forums/mysmil...milie_2523.gif

That’s basically what I was thinking… since unitrack is so robust I can experiment with track layouts without having to worry about tearing up flex track if I don’t like something…

I know I’ll stick to the T-trak specs for the 2 mains, will be nice to have the ability to plug right in to a club…

[LotsOfTrains!]

Been doing some brainstorming while I was working today… I think I’m going to focus on mainline running on this layout. I seem to be developing an interest in collecting Kato passenger trains, and this would be a good way to display them “in motion”… I’m thinking of building a passenger station across a few longer modules. I have a “bench” 30” deep and 12’ wide available to set up the modules in my basement…

[LotsOfTrains!]

Starting to gather track! I thought I might use the curves from the V6 set I have, but they are wider than the T-Trak standard so I bought some more curves of the specified radius…

[ChicagoNW]

You don’t have to build a huge terminal type station. The name trains often double as commuters stopping at the smaller stations around Chicago. Kato’s Schaumburg Station is perfect for a T-Track module.

Of course, a kitbashed Racine Station could be in the future.

[LotsOfTrains!]

Of course, a kitbashed Racine Station could be in the future.

You’ll never guess what city I live in…

[Sumner]

You’ll never guess what city I live in…

,

Sumner

[ChicagoNW]

Summer, you are not supposed to reveal the sources of my power! You will be penalized.

[LotsOfTrains!]

I figured that would be good for a laugh or two…

I think I might have to do some research on the Racine station… I’m not a Wisconsin native, but I’m still interested in local history…