Hi Everyone, I thought that I would ask for feedback and comments on my layout construction article in OGR Run 275 on the Cisco Railroad.
The article started as a track plan submission. The track design has a couple of interesting ideas:
1. Two independent loops in 4X8 with O36 minimum diameter.
2. Connections between the two loops that are easier than O-36 reverse curves made with two O-36 switches.
3. Close parallel track spacing for better appearance than the standard 6" that you get with fastrack (which would not work on a 4X8 anyway.
Alan suggested that the plan might make a good layout construction article. I had not planned on building the layout, but decided to give it a try. I decided to use a lightweight foundation out of necessity, having obtained temporary clearance to use the dining room table meaning a layout move was inevitable. Using the 2" foam worked really well, its stronger and stiffer than I imagined. But securing track directly to the foam seemed problematic, as foam by itself is not strong enough to retain screws for very long. Using the drywall anchors with Gorila Glue solved that problem: the fastening is strong and the track can be unscrewed and reinstalled with ease.
I wanted to protect the foam from handling during moves, so I wrapped the edges with black duck tape, which is holding-up well. I may end up rounding the corners of the 4X8 foam table to make moving easier, and rewrapping the corners with the tape.
Allan was great to work with, a real pro with great advice and encouragement. Allan encouraged me to try for a cover photo shot, which after a number of tries and refinement, we arrived at a good image. Of course I am delighted to have my photo and layout on the cover.
The entire project was a great deal of fun, a real pleasure. And I am having blast running trains on the Cisco.
Any feedback or thoughts on the layout and article? -Ken
