Building the Right-Sized Layout

by Thomas Klimoski

Overview

Interested in building a model railroad but don't know where to start? Frequent Model Railroader author Thomas Klimoski takes you through the decision-making process that led him to build his Georgia Northeastern Railroad, featured in Great Model Railroads 2020. Not sure if you have enough room for a model railroad? Tom shows you how to choose a prototype and design a track plan for a satisfying layout that doesn't need a sprawling basement to fit. Afraid a smaller layout might not have enough operating potential to be interesting? Tom shows you how to detail not only your layout, but your operating scheme to entertain a solo operator or a small crew. Still wondering what to do next? Buy this book and dig in, you won't be sorry!

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781627008372
Publication date:	09/01/2021
Pages:	112
Product dimensions:	8.10(w) x 10.50(h) x 0.40(d)

About the Author

Like most model railroaders, Thomas Klimoski has always enjoyed model and prototype trains. From his first Lionel train set to the current Georgia Northeastern Railroad layout, model trains have been a part of his life. After retiring as a firefighter from the City of Miami Fire-Rescue Department, Thomas was able to work part time as a trainman for the Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad and learned a lot about prototype railroad operations. This experience has helped him focus on what he enjoys most about model railroading: local switching operations on a shortline railroad. Thomas is a frequent contributor to Model Railroader magazine and has had his layout featured in Model Railroad Planning as well as Great Model Railroads 2020. This is Thomas' first book for Kalmbach Media.

Table of Contents

Introduction What is a right-sized layout? 4

Chapter 1 The Right-Sized Layout

Determining the right-sized layout for you 5

Chapter 2 Track planning

Factors to consider when designing your track plan 15

Chapter 3 Layout construction

Efficient use of space, benchwork, and layout room aesthetics 27

Chapter 4 Prototype inspired track plans

Looking to the prototype for layout design ideas 39

Chapter 5 Prototype operations

Prototype rules and procedures that can be applied to model railroading 58

Chapter 6 Detailing operations

Adopting prototype practices can enhance your operating session 72

Chapter 7 Operating session paperwork

You need to know where the trains are supposed to go, and what to do when they get there 88

Chapter 8 Conducting operating sessions

Making your guests feel comfortable and welcome on your layout 104