is also where I found one of those used metal pull-out drawers
for computer keyboards ($2), which I plan to use for my control
panel. I picked up a quart of flat tan paint at Menards for $1,
which I found in their incorrectly tinted clearance shelf. Harbor
Freight Tools is a low-cost source. I get their coupons, and have
obtained a free digital electrical meter, tape measure, and other
stuff, when purchasing many tools and supplies at low cost.
Rolling stock
For the track and model train supplies, I did some looking
around at local hobby shops. Two of the three hobby shops
had consignment model trains that were mostly HO, but some
N. One of the shops specializes in model trains, including some
consignment N scale equipment, and the helpful owner offered
me some answers and suggestions.
I found an MRC 1300 power pack for $10, and noted at least
one steam loco and some cars I would like to get. One advan-
tage is that he will run them for me to evaluate prior to pur-
chase (unfortunately not through my tight turns and switches).
He explained about the Atlas switch supply problem, and after
discussion I felt my best track and switch option was to use
Peco code 80 track.
The Peco switches have a built-in spring that eliminates the
need to make or purchase some type of switch machine to
hold the points in position. Also, their small-radius switches
seem good for my tight space and especially suitable for trolley
trackage. By limiting my equipment choice to B-B style diesels
and smaller-driver steam locomotives I think the Peco small
and medium radius track switches will serve well.
I then went to the Internet to do my price and availability shop-
ping, and to establish my budget distribution plan. I found
$500 layout grand prize - 7
I liked NScaleYardSale
. They
seemed to list a great deal of equipment ,and covered my
assumed track needs. I used N Scale Supply for targeted part
numbers and budget prices. I have done a lot of looking and
business on eBay and through NscaleYardSale, but any deals
I find there I consider a savings, permitting money to be allo-
cated elsewhere.
Trackwork
Construction started by laying out the track centerlines on the
door. I left the (UP) working railroad line off the door because it
can be added to a shelf section running between the door panel
and the wall. I prefer to do the track layout with the door on the
floor, where I find it easier to work. It is extremely important
that the resulting rail joints are smooth, without any kinks.
Insulated joiners are required at both ends of the tight 9” to
10” reversing section of the wye, and also recommended at the
two diverging ends of the medium-radius LH switch. This is the
most critical portion of the layout trackwork. I adjust and test
this until I am satisfied. From this point, the remaining track
should go into place.
Note that the layout plan uses all switch radii of 12”, whereas
Peco indicates a 9” radius on their small-radius switches, and a
12” radius for their medium-radius switches. The Peco website,
includes switch templates which I
printed out. The medium-radius switches are meant for where
their larger diverging-radius switches accommodate the longer-
wheelbase locomotives and passenger cars along the route
from the storage tracks, and the main route connecting to the
straight running tracks.
MRH-May 2014
