Lionel FasTrack Modular Layout news from the LCCA Convention...

The only things not included in the Lionel modular layout kit are the legs and the plywood top for the unit.  Other than that, it includes all of the framing for the unit, the hardware for mounting the legs and interlocking the modules, wiring harnesses,  and a template for lining up the track.  

Glad to see all the comments about the new modular layouts!

With all the excitement, newness and patience required to see this all come together, let me share more modular process pictures for you - enjoy!

For the corner modules it would be a good idea to include the plywood top pre-cut to fit the module as cutting some of the angles to fit the module could be a little tricky.

Neal Jeter

Hi Neal, good idea. In fact I would like to see TW, or Lionel produce a templet package, including one of those track position jigs. They could even have a templet for the locking mechanism. A few millimetters off in opposite directions could be a real bummer when folks try to match up at a meet.

Mario:

A template for positioning the track and for the locking mechanisms was on display at the LCCA convention.

Neal 

Hi Rich, I missed your post above. I guess they are way ahead of me.

The modular system looks pretty neat.

I have no experience with modular layouts, but one question comes to mind.

Most of the photos of modular layouts I see posted on the forum, and layouts I have seen at York and other venues, have some sort of plexiglas shield or something similar as a barrier to keep the overenthusiastic or mischievous from interacting with the trains.

Has this been considered as part of the module standard?

If it is something that ends up being added later, it might be better to develop a standard design and material list in the beginning so the barrier looks as uniform as the rest of the module.

Not a bad idea, but I bet they already thought of it.

Good Day,

I'm curious, what is the overall size of this layout? 12' x 20'?

Regards,

Swafford 

Train Dame,

Thanks for the additional pictures... sheds more light (and sawdust!) on the project.

Do you know if the interlock hardware is an off the shelf latch available from a hardware supplier?  Haven't seen a latch like this before.

Ed

<big>LCCA National Convention Recap           Preview of 2012 Lionel Volume 2 Catalog</big>
<big>Allen Dayton (LCCA #6532), owner of HHW / AZT, recently        attended the Lionel Collectors Club of America National        Convention in Norfolk, VA.  At the convention, Lionel gave a        preview of new product that will be featured in it's 2012 Volume        2 catalog which will be available in August.  Here are Allen's        notes:
        **</big> <big>New Made in America items for 2013        (Product being produced in New Haven, MI):          American Military Train (new tooling), American Flyer Ready to        Run Starter Set
        ** </big> <big>American Flyer sales have been through the          roof!!!  This is the fastest growing segment in the model        railroading industry.  Look for huge increases and excellent        sales opportunities in 2013.
        ** </big> <big>Lionel will be producing a line of Christmas          Tree Ornaments and Christmas Decorations, including a        Christmas Tree Skirt.
        ** </big> <big>Fastrack Track Modules - prefabricated        layouts for retail sales.
        ** </big> <big>Norfolk Southern has changed the art on          their Heritage locomotives, look for new paint schemes in        new catalog.  They will also support locomotive sales with new        Heritage rolling stock.
        ** </big> <big>Centipedes are very close to shipping.
        ** </big> <big>Single Unit Centipedes:  5-Stripe, N de        M, Seaboard
        **</big> <big>Canadian Pacific DD35 (powered and        non-powered)
        **</big> <big>Norfolk & Western (J) Pocahontas Express          Train Set (Legacy) - Separate sale N&W J Locomotive
        ** </big> <big>NYC Mohawk Water Level Route Train Set        (Legacy)
        **</big> <big>Southern Pacific Tank Train Set (SD40 +        4 Tank Train Cars)
        **  NEW!!!</big> <big>GW-180 Transformer: 180 Watts,        Two Output, Mid-Range Transformer (They are shooting for a          September delivery!!!)
        ** </big> <big>ZW-L Transformer available in September ________________________________________________________________________________
<big>Lionel Drops Items from Production Schedule</big> <big><small>          6-11199 UP NW2 SWITCHER WORK SET           6-27674 ELK RIVER WORK CABOOSE           6-31743 AMTRAK ACELA SET</small></big> <big><small>6-34763 CNJ LEGACY NW2</small></big> <big><small>6-34764 CNJ LEGACY NW2</small></big> <big><small>6-34765 KCS LEGACY NW2</small></big></big> <big><small><big>6-34766 KCS LEGACY NW2           6-34767 L&N LEGACT NW2           6-34768 L&N LEGACY NW2           6-34769 MKT LEGACY NW2           6-34770 MKT LEGACY NW2           6-34771 READING LEGACY NW2           6-34772 READING LEGACY NW2           6-34773 PENN LEGACY NW2           6-34774 PENN LEGACY NW2           6-37973 COCA COLA STATION           6-38595 CB&Q LEGACY NW2           6-38596 CB&Q LEGACY NW2           6-48097 AF CLEAR DOCKSIDE SWITCHER           6-49627 AF CRESCENT LIMITED PASSENGER SET           6-48759 AF CLEAR SMOKING CABOOSE           6-25665 AMTRAK ACELA ADD-ON 2/PK           6-29326 NP "BIG PALACE" STOCK CAR</big></small></big>

Cleaned this up a bit...

LCCA National Convention Recap Preview of 2012 Lionel Volume 2 Catalog

Allen Dayton (LCCA #6532), owner of HHW / AZT, recently attended the Lionel Collectors Club of America National Convention in Norfolk, VA. At the convention, Lionel gave a preview of new product that will be featured in it's 2012 Volume 2 catalog which will be available in August.

Here are Allen's notes:

New Made in America items for 2013 (Product being produced in New Haven, MI): American Military Train (new tooling)

American Flyer Ready to Run Starter Set

**American Flyer sales have been through the roof!!! This is the fastest growing segment in the model railroading industry. Look for huge increases and excellent sales opportunities in 2013.

Lionel will be producing a line of Christmas Tree Ornaments and Christmas Decorations, including a Christmas Tree Skirt.

Fastrack Track Modules - prefabricated layouts for retail sales.

Norfolk Southern has changed the art on their Heritage locomotives, look for new paint schemes in new catalog. They will also support locomotive sales with new Heritage rolling stock.

Centipedes are very close to shipping.

Single Unit Centipedes: 5-Stripe, N de M, Seaboard

Canadian Pacific DD35 (powered and non-powered)

Norfolk & Western (J) Pocahontas Express Train Set (Legacy) - Separate sale N&W J Locomotive

NYC Mohawk Water Level Route Train Set (Legacy)

Southern Pacific Tank Train Set (SD40 + 4 Tank Train Cars)

GW-180 Transformer: 180 Watts, Two Output, Mid-Range Transformer (They are shooting for a September delivery!!!)

ZW-L Transformer available in September ________________________________________________________________________________

Southern Pacific Tank Train Set (SD40 + 4 Tank Train Cars)

CAn anyone tell me what are the graphics on the tanktrain cars? orange & white or just white?

Just under 16' - 2" x just under 12' - 5"

Thanks Ed!

We've been using that hardware since we opened our doors in 1982. Back in the day, we primarily used them to put together stage platforms. There are several names for the hardware; rotto locks, cam locks and also referred to as Coffin Locks (literally used for coffins). Unfortunately this is a specialty latch and cannot be purchased at your local Home Depot or Lowes. I believe the manufacturer is Southco...but not going to swear to it.

Happy Tracks!

Just added more testimonials to my blog - check them out: www.blog.traindame.com/testimonials 

I would think so, too, as I'm sure some very knowledgeable and experienced folks are involved with developing the module standards.

I am just curious as none of the photos posted from Trainworx or photos of the display module at the LCCA convention appear to show pre-drilled holes, or attachment hardware, etc. to attach a barrier or shield to the module.

I was hoping a post from Train Dame would clear things up, but no such luck. I'll be interested to see what the standards show when they are released.

I believe the LCCA/Lionel modular committe has developed an optional  plexiglass barrier design for attachment to this modular layout.  I personalike would like to see numerous modules without barriers, much like  Lionel's existing operating display layout where they encourage and invite interaction with the people.  I envision some modules having buttons for people to push and activate Lionel Accessories.  I think we want  to be inviting, encouraging, and interactive so we introduce  new people to the hobby.  I think this layout needs to be a fun and interactive experience for the visitors.  The reason I like model trains today, as an adult, is because I played with my Lionel Trains as a kid.  We ran the trains and had fun with them. If I didnt have a fun experience with Lionel trains when I was young, i doubt if i would have gotten myself involed with the hobby as an adult.  I personally think if we can make this modular layout fun and interactive, it will help perpetuate our hobby well into the future.  

Al K.

Al K.,

Thanks for your reply. I agree it is more enjoyable for the viewing public to have a barrier free view, and the Trainworx modules are very nice looking. I was curious because most of the modular layouts I have seen use a barrier. Sounds like having an optional barrier is the way to go.

I've seen the Lionel layout at York, and although there is no barrier and the trains are clearly in sight, they seem a little more removed compared to the average modular layout. I think it is a combination of the relatively massive size of the table and many of the trains are actually located towards the interior and /or elevated. I do like the push buttons for accessories. I had fun going around the layout and pushing all the buttons to see what they controlled.

I agree, no barriers. Sure it will be more work for the folks at the show and there will be some casualties, but parents especially need to see that these are toys and they can be played with. I keep a vintage die-cast scout engine behind the counter to give parents to hold so they can see the construction and feel the weight. I think the sensory interaction with the public is an important aspect to this type of endeavor.

They are using roto-locks

Here is a list of the parts that we are using for our modules:

http://www.mutualhardware.com/...Joint-Panel-Fastener

http://www.mutualhardware.com/...ger-Recessed-Handles

http://www.mutualhardware.com/...s-and-Deluxes-Glides

http://www.mutualhardware.com/...ngers-Large-or-Small

http://www.ebcoproducts.com/legs.html

http://www.speeco.com/products...ustable%20Draw%20Pin

http://www.andersonpower.com/p...pole-connectors.html

Just to clarify, other than the roto-locks, the parts specified above are not used on the LCCA/Lionel Fastrack Modular Railroad modular layout.   The LCCA/Lionel official standards and parts list with descriptions will be specified and posted soon on our website www.lionelcollectors.org. Thank you for your  patience and understanding.  Additional information will follow. 

Al K. 

LCCA President Dennis Devito  posted the following news announcement on the crossing gate signal on the LCCA's website main page.  For the preliminary  information about LCCA/Lionel Fastrack Modular Railroad specifications go to the crossing gate signal at www.lionelcollectors.org

Al K

Preliminary Specificatons - LCCA/Lionel Fastrack Modular Railroad

What a successful introduction the LCCA/Lionel Modular Railroad had at the LCCA 42nd annual convention in Norfolk!  An eloquent enhancement to current modular systems, this new system builds on the best features and advantages of existing modular systems while incorporating Lionel Fastrack.  It is an easy size to transport, light weight, simple to build (kits made it even simpler), easy to assemble with each other while incorporating all the advantages of modular design. And given the definition of a standard of design, tolerances, and electrical connections, it is anticipated the release of the final standards will become universally acknowledged and accepted.

Module Committee Report 8-3-12.pdf

The LCCA is proud to be working with Lionel on this project. While this is an "open architecture" design and available for anyone to use, Lionel will offer multiple kit options for general use. If you do attempt to construct your own module, be advised the required dimensional tolerances on either curve module might be a challenge for novice modular builders.  Participants are encouraged to apply a sealer to the top surface of the module, but this is not a requirement.

Given the complexity and variability of modular construction by individuals, there will be a "certification process and review" procedure prior to first use.  This is expected to be a simple, straight forward test intended to prevent electrical and mechanical problems and to protect other modules from damage.

Once the complete standards and manuals on the modular layout is published, the LCCA will establish a communication method between users to share ideas and comments.  As part of this effort, the LCCA will maintain and update the specifications.  Once this communication link is set up (visit this site for details), please feel free to participate.

Future upgrades might include an upper (or lower) level, adding S-gauge to the existing module or creating a separate S-gauge module (will use same physical size), special turnout sections, track control tables, packing and transport cases, and other enhancements. 

Having seen the eloquent solution to a universal modular design as set forward by this committee,  I strongly endorse its use for any of the many applications where a module can be used.  The LCCA and Lionel are planning to have modular setups possibly as soon as October - but certainly by November.  Consider this an invitation to participate in any of the module runs being planned.  And by all means, be sure to share any runs you may be having with the LCCA!

Dennis DeVito
LCCA President and Fellow Member
  

Your link to the module committee report didn't work, at least for me, but I found the page on the LCCA web site where the link works correctly:

committee module report

Anyone interested in the report can download the pdf on the LCCA page.

Thank you.

Al K.

You're welcome.  It's a well-written report. The modules sound exciting. You can tell quite a bit of planning and thought went into the program. Way down the track, so to speak, but the idea of having an upper level sounds interesting.

I am very curious as to this also.

Lionel/LCCA modular team are working on getting price quotes from vendors to establish retail pricing.   Additional information will follow.

Apparently there's a bit of interest in these modules!

Maybe Train Dame could re-title the thread so everyone knows it's about the new modular layout details from LCCA, TW, Lionel

Ed

TD, thanks for the info, I found some of the roto-locks online!

I revised the title of the thread just a bit to make it more topic-specific.

Hmmm...don't know if this was mentioned here yet. I wonder how practical ($$) this would be for a home layout. Sure looks tempting for me to have my own modular layout in my basement. I'm sure it can be embellished with some backdrops and my own additions. It's wonderful that this will be available.

I'm hoping the module prices will be affordable enough so that they will be attractive for people to buy but I am afraid that they will be a bit on the expensive side.  What will make things more affordable would be to make module(s) to the LCCA specification using your own materials.

One thing I haven't seen yet is a turnback module/specification.  So far, it seems that what is available is to vary the configuration of two concentric loops.  Does the existing specification make any assumptions on direction of travel for either the inside or outside lines?

I envision a day where people incorporate module sections that can be removed from their home layout and taken to a train show. 

Al K.

Eric,

That is exactly what I am hoping to do.

Al,

Thanks for elaborating.  I do understand how critical it will be to stick with the dimensional and connecting specifications.  My concern with purchasing a kit from Lionel (or anyone else) is that of cost.  If these are priced too high, they will simply not be accessible to those with limited finances.  In my limited experience with modules, low cost has been one of the attractions.

I am happy to hear about the turnbacks being part of the standard.  I am looking forward to the published specs when they come out.

Is there any ballpark date as to when you think they will be out?  Are modules likely to be available by Christmas?

I question the use of coffin lock, every other modular solution in other scale are using c clamps and it work well. Those Coffin look will be a pain in the butt to install if we choose to make our own module.