The Bekin United Railroad is my practice railroad. I intend to determine what my best practices are for layout building using this layout as my test bed. Here is the layout plan:
|
|
This layout design was created by Don Mitchell and was published by Kalmbach in this book: |
|
|
As you can see, I should be able to try out many aspects of model railroading. I created the web site after I started the layout. For a detailed description of where I was when this page was originally created, check out my initial progress report. If you are looking for the most recent progress, then check out my latest progress. The latest update was as of September 13, 2004.
Benchwork - I chose to mount this layout against the walls of my garage. My garage holds my vehicles as well as several pieces of woodworking equipment. While I realize that a garage may not be the best location for a layout, I wanted to experience what impact the temperature extremes would have on the layout. I also realize that sawdust will also have to be controlled.
While I understand L-Girder benchwork, I opted for a simple box like structure for this layout. In my opinion, this choice will become obvious for reasons below.
Backdrop - After reading about all of the options, I went with .080" styrene. I found a source in my home town where I can get 4'x8' sheets. I ripped 16"x8' strips and mounted these against the wall. While the modules are movable, I want the backdrop to be permanently mounted in the garage.
Subroadbed - I wanted to use foam to keep the weight down. I intend to move these components from the garage into the house to work on them and don't want to carry the extra weight. Using foam also looks like it might be easier then the old hydrocal methods.
Electrical - I decided to use DCC from the beginning. This decision allowed me to simplify the wiring because I was no longer concerned about multiple cabs. I also was able to rework all of the turnouts to minimize the shorting opportunities before I installed them. I purchased a Digitrax Chief and plan on installing it in such a manner that allows me to disconnect it easily. I also plan on making each module a power district to allow me to experience a more advanced DCC installation.
Track - All track is nickel silver Code 83 Walthers switches or Atlas flextrack. As mentioned earlier, I made each switch DCC ready. This process took me approximately two hours per switch. I think I will hand lay my switches on the Shasta Division. Track is laid on Woodland Scenics trackbed.
Scenery - Since I used foam for the subroadbed, I used foam for the ground contours as well. I cover the foam with Woodland Scenics scenic strips. I am loosely following ? Realistic Scenery techniques.
Structures - I selected simple structures to create for this layout. I actually plan on swapping these structures for more elaborate structures at a later date. One thing I am attempting to do is to weather my structures. You can follow my progress if you like.
Locomotives - My locomotives will be all Southern Pacific and small by today's standards, there will be a mixture of diesel and steam. Most diesel's will be 4 axle units with maybe an SD-7/9 or two.
Rolling Stock - At first my cars will be comprised of whatever I have that runs, but over time the original set will be upgraded to my future standard.
Revised: 09/14/2004