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I have designed the layout using Atlas Right Track software. The
track components can be laid out with the centerlines marked,
the cork roadbed laid out, and the track glued down on top of
the cork. The only gaps needed at this point are double gaps on
both tracks off of the wye as it’s a reversing section. The DPDT
switch will then be used to flip the polarity as this creates a
reversing section on the layout. The turnouts will be controlled
by installing the Caboose Industries ground throws. The throt-
tle can then be connected to the track to provide power.
4
4. Build the frame.
Western Expansion Central - 4
$500 Starter Layout Contest Rules
Here are the rules for the $500 Starter Layout Challenge Contest we ran from
August to November of 2012.
You have a $500 total budget.
Assume basic tools: hammer, saw, drill, screwdriver, scissors, single-edged
razor blades, soldering iron.
Nbr Item nbr Description per ($) Total ($)
2 150-500 flex track $4.64 $9.28
20 150-510 9" Straight $0.96 $19.20
1 150-532 Full Section 18" Radius pkg. 6 $5.67 $5.67
1 150-533 1/2 section 18" radius (4 pcs./pkg. - 1 Element req'd) $3.09 $3.09
3 150-535 22" Radius (6 pcs/pkg. - 16 Elements required) $5.67 $17.01
3 150-542 Snap Switch left - manual $10.96 $32.88
1 150-543 Snap Switch right - manual $10.96 $10.96
4 150-544 22" Radius Snap Switch left - manual $11.33 $45.32
1 150-545 22" Radius Snap Switch right - manual $11.33 $11.33
SUB Total Not including shipping $154.74
BLUE RIDGE HOBBIES Prices Code 83 track
Nbr Item nbr Description per ($) Total ($)
1 500-200 Throttle - MRC $56.72 $56.72
2 472-3015 Midwest Cork Roadbed, box of 5, 36” $6.64 $13.28
2 97-5202 Caboose Industries Ground Throw, pkg. 5 $11.12 $22.24
Wire – hookup wire from Wal-Mart $4.00 $4.00
1 475-3610002 Miniatronics DPDT toggle (reversing sec.) $6.04 $6.04
6 Railroad Cars – hoppers $15.00 $90.00
1 caboose $15.00 $15.00
Total $207.28
Other Components, Blue Ridge Hobbies prices
Assume advanced tools like a table saw, router, or lathe are NOT available.
Must design an operating layout or module (continuous running optional).
Include a shopping list not exceeding $500 - must cover benchwoork, road
bed, track, wiring, control system, rolling stock, locos, structures, and scenery.
Common items listed on the web like eBay or Yahoo train yard sale okay.
Thinking outside the box encouraged.
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MRH-Mar 2013