available via eBay, even this modest layout could well have
exceeded the target $500. When working to a fixed bud-
get, spending carefully and wisely is not just advisable, it’s
essential.
What did we get for our money? A “fully presentable” single-
scene layout which will fit in almost any home. It needs no cus-
tom tools to assemble, and no noisy/dusty/messy power tools,
which immediately gains points with the Domestic Authorities.
It’s fully capable of quickie game type operations for sharing
the hobby with children and non-train visitors. It is equally
capable of hosting more prototype-inspired operations for the
hardcore ops-minded modeler.
MRH $500 Contest - 6
6: The day after the night before. Chicago Fork shot outside
in raw foamcore stage. The PECO Code 83 #5 turnout,
Athearn boxcar, and Atlas GP38 look strangely at-home…
6
7: The rear of Chicago Fork, showing the profile supports for
the roof and lighting system. The coved backdrop/ceiling is
2mmmatteboard.
7
A high quality locomotive paired with a basic quality throttle,
reliable track, and manual turnout controls present an easy-
to-use human interface and satisfying operating performance.
It can be ready to run at the flick of a power switch. The lay-
out provides many opportunities for expanding the modeler's
skills, while not imposing so much of any given discipline that
the tasks become a burden.
So who’s keen to start building?
MRH-Sep 2013
