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I am about to embark on my next layout and if I learned one thing from my last it is that they are HEAVY! I would like to consider using some kind of modular construction that can be broken down to move but I have no idea where to begin. How to I make the connections to the track sections? How do I hide the seams in the scenery? What other questions should I be asking?
Posts: 8 | From: Coatesville,PA,USA | Registered: Feb 2003
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If you check the Module Standards Section of the NMRA Web site they have Construction standards for Modules in Various Scales. which include Z-Track, N-Track, HO-Track, S-Track, and O-Track. You can use them as a guid for designing your new layout sections.
Posts: 315 | From: Lander,WY USA | Registered: Jan 2002
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Well, I took a look at the NMRA standards and it seems to be very good. However, all I could find was standards for straight modules. Sooner or later the track needs to turn and I found nothing to indicate how that particular module is built. Also, these standards leave no room for elevating track above the 40" standard. If I want to have a grade up a mountain pass using these standards I am out of luck. At least I have a starting point though.
Posts: 8 | From: Coatesville,PA,USA | Registered: Feb 2003
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I have the specs for the corner modules stashed away somewhere in my files. Give me a while to find them and I will email them to you. Also, use the standards as only a guid to construction. I know that every non standard piece wont be able to be run together with standard modules. But how important is that on a home layout?
Posts: 315 | From: Lander,WY USA | Registered: Jan 2002
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Thanks, I look forward to seeing those specs. You're right, on a home layout standards are not as important, but I may as well use them so I could take them to a show if I desire.
BTW, I posted a camera question and of all the replies I got I was surprised that there does not seem to be much on the market yet. Do you agree with my interpretation? All I want to do is put a mini camera on an engine and run it around the layout. It can run on battery and be wireless if that helps.
I do agree that there is a market out there for a camera for the layout. There was even an article in Railroad Model Craftsman on how to mount one in an a Proto 2000 RDC. However. Given the current state of video optics, HO is about the practicle limit when it comes to how small you can go and keep costs reasonable. If you want to fork over the money for what is known as a "probe Cam" (the type of camera's they use to show the insides of small things) you might be able to fashion one. But given available comercial technology, HO is it for the small side.
Posts: 315 | From: Lander,WY USA | Registered: Jan 2002
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