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 -
- 2020 Layout Extension Scenery-

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 just didn't feel like it made much sense... IT's a disease!!!

With the platform done (same lighteight, easy to tear down and reassemble design), I just need to sort out the layout route. And I'm definitely leaning towards some variant of a figure 8.

[A week later] I played around a bit more with the layout design software, and I came up with a solution that incorporates the figure 8, but allows a route circulated just around the original layout circuit.

I came up with this design while taking my mind off the problem completely, and working to complete a few projects I'd been putting of, like kit bashing (of a sort) a pair of ridiculously ubiquitous background flats, to save some money, and come up with something a bit more convincing that the individual flats themselves.

I also took time to add a rotary beacon and cooler to the not very detailed Bachmann MOV truck, positioned in a track maintenance diorama on the layout. and figured out how to paint a couple tiny ass propane tanks, which will go add detail, if ever I find need for them...

This website is dedicated to my model railroading buddy and dearest childhood friend, Tony Dozier. Increasingly, folks who enjoy model railroading are an older bunch, who are having to bid farewell to those we grew up with, people from a time when the distinction between friend and sibling really didn't count for much. We were that close. Love you Tony; and all the best to the people who will never grow too old to "play with trains."

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