Large Scale Central

Started a Blog to Document Layout Build

General Discussion
#1

Hi All,

I started a blog to document the building of my current layout and future expansion (still have to get the Office of Budget and Finance to sign off on it). I started building phase on over the summer/fall of 2015, but I just decided to start blogging about it. It really isnt much of a layout…but it’s my little slice of train heaven for now. I hope to get the blog caught up to where I am today in the next week or so…but with the nice weather here in So California…Im out playing with my trains instead. Don’t be a hater!

Have a look…comments and criticism are always welcome.

http://bobsgardenrailroad.blogspot.com/

#2

Good start Bob. Everyone has to start at the beginning. (http://largescalecentral.com/externals/tinymce/plugins/emoticons/img/smiley-cool.gif)

#3

I like how the track is level with the pavers so it will be less likely to get kicked.

I would suggest putting in a siding along that back side so you can park a train while another is running then swap them out. That way you can run a freight then bring out a passenger etc…

Track power isn’t that difficult all you need to do is tighten the joiners with pliers then apply a dab of conductive grease to them. The grease will keep out dirt and stop corrosion.

You are off to a good start just remember the number one rule to HAVE FUN !

#4

Todd,

There is a siding along the backside already (near the stool)…

#5

Lookin’ good, Bob.

Welcome to Large Scale Central. You will find this a friendly place. Grab a chair and join the conversation.

Since you asked for comments, I’ll offer this. You may find that your ballast has rolled away, after the first rainstorm. Granted, they don’t happen often in your location, but when they do, they are frequently gully whompers. Pea gravel is aptly named because it it looks like a pea, sorta. When it rains, the raindrops scale out to 5 gallons each when they hit your layout. That causes the pea gravel to roll away, never to be found again.

A better choice is crushed gravel, usually 3/8 inch minus. The crushed gravel has sharp edges that will lock together, stabilizing the ballast. If you look at what the 1:1 railroads, crushed rock is what they use. There is a reason.

You made a good choice with your control system. Del does good work.

I like your start. Please don’t be a stranger. Keep us posted.

#6

Thanks for the kind words. I have added a few updates… http://bobsgardenrailroad.blogspot.com/

@Todd…I wanted the track just below or level with the paver so it can be stepped on if necessary. Small siding already in place. Getting ready to sell the “Phase 2 Expansion” to the wife.

@Steve…I used pea gravel as the base and drainage rock (which is jagged and not round) for the ballast. So far, so good, we havent had the “El Nino” here as expected, but the few rains we did have havent done much to the ballast at all. Rail Boss 4 is a great system…for my needs.