This layout design is unusual, to say the least. Looking at the layout
plan without an explanation would be quite puzzling indeed. It is worth
wading through this text and figures before looking at the plan.
First of all, the layout is in N scale. HO scalers have to temporarily
adjust their intuitive reference system to analyze this. For instance,
the 8 inches between shelves is over 100 scale feet or close to 15
inches in HO. By experiment, I have switched cars using a small
screwdriver like device to uncouple MicroTrainš couplers in as little as
5.5 inches of clearance.
Construction Timing
Construction began in February, 2000. About 22 pieces of plywood were used to complete the benchwork which occured in July. As of Summer, 2003, the bottom two shelves are running and I am working on Middletown yard on the third shelf. Work is progressing at about half the rate I anticipated.
Photo at right
The Carbondale & Kingston was dismanteled on November 22, 2000 (on the right). The benchwork for the NYO&W (on the left) with one track of Weekhawken yard visible (on the bottom shelf). Both layouts frame the irresponsible engineer who created the mess. The photographer, Mrs. Irresponsible Engineer, is standing about where the "4R" is located in the Room Overview drawing.
Draw Pulls
To personalize the entrance to the train room we started a line of railroad logo drawer pulls. They are truly unique. The company is Inspired Nut, LLC and you can see them at inspirednut.com.
Comments
Please send comments to gary.
Write Up
An article on this layout appeared in Kalmbach's "Model Railroad Planning 2003".
