2020 Layout Extension

- Bench Work -
- Platform & Console Build -
- Topography -
- Ballasting & Scenary 1.0 -
- Bridge Redesign & Scenary 2.0 -
- Scenary Detailing-
- Lighting, Animation Work -
- Diorama Refinements -
- Oops - Major Nov. 2019 Track Fix -
- DCC Turnout Control Installation -
- 2020 Layout Extension -

Facebook model railroading groups are filled with pics of all the nice shyt "Santa" bought for the fellahs, and frankly it got to me. Although I got the one thing I really wanted, in in Cobalt turnout control system, it started to get on my nerves, and drastic actions were needed. First order of business was to get a dope service vehicle. Something that you can't just buy off the shelf. So I ordered a custom built welder's rig, from Lacy HO Customs, to center a new diorama on the layout.

That calmed me down, and got me through the holidays, but by New Years, after cleaning up the basement and looking at all the space... NOT extending the layout a few feet was inevitable... It's a disease!!!

With the platform done (same light weight, easy to tear down and reassemble design, though I did add leg braces after this pic), I just need to sort out the layout route. And I'm definitely leaning towards some variant of a figure 8.

I'd already started cutting a spur to connect the two layout segments, before I figured out the problem. I was trying to connect the extension without changing the track routs of the existing layout. Letting go of the two loops of the old layout was the first step in finding a better layout design. First I got rid of one, then both. So that the loops eventually extended across bothe layout segments, with one crossing over, so that the trains would travel in opposing directions in one the extension.

IAs I treaked it, I realized it was impossible to make a typical figure 8-style crossover not look amateurish. I also realized, jamming the crossover up, as close as possible to the existing layout wasn't the only way to create a workable area , in the center of the extension. One day it occurred to me, if I angled the extension 12 degree, away from the wall, the extension could be widened at that end, while preserving access to service the layout. It also allows for wider turning radii, and stillprovides amble access the far side of the layout. So, I got the workable space I wanted in the center, and was able to set a track route that didn't look like my first Lionel set, back in the early 60s

In the end, taking my time, and not rushung into things, as I had when I first got back into the hobby, to build the section of the layout, made for a better design..

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