Super Simple N Scale Switching Layout

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  • Опубліковано 15 лип 2024
  • Here is an extremely easy-to-build, 48" x 6" N scale switching layout. There is no scenery, just a simple, nicely stained board with some Kato Unitrack and a battery-powered throttle.
    • Buy me a coffee to help support this channel: www.buymeacoffee.com/stephens...
    It only takes about an hour to build, though if you stain the wood that hour will be spread out over a couple of days since you will have to wait for the stain to dry. The layout is designed to handle eight 50' freight cars.
    More info on switching puzzles: www.wymann.info/ShuntingPuzzle...
    Athearn 50' Boxcars: bit.ly/2YgzsiC
    Athearn on UA-cam: / athearnmodeltrains
    Videos every Tuesday!
    Rokuhan Throttle: ztrackcenter.com/controllers/...
    PRODUCT LINKS
    BOOKS:
    •Carl Arendt's Small Layout Scrapbook: amzn.to/2AZkqzM
    •How to Build a Switching Layout: amzn.to/2t0xXE5
    •How to Operate a Modern Era Switching Layout: amzn.to/2ut8nfn
    •How to Design a Small Switching Layout: amzn.to/2ujJ2nt
    •8 Realistic Track Plans for Small Switching Layouts: amzn.to/2ujBOQd
    •Building a Model Railroad Step by Step: amzn.to/2ut23Ev
    •Building a Sectional Layout: amzn.to/3EWNMSb
    CONTROLLERS:
    Battery Powered Controllers that work great for N scale too: amzn.to/3umqFfa
    Awesome DCC Starter System: amzn.to/3gZVbbp
    TRAIN SETS:
    N Scale Kato Amtrack Set: amzn.to/3iyCbBt
    N Scale Kato Super Chief Set: amzn.to/3B4ISS7
    Kato N Scale Track and Controller Set 1: amzn.to/3B61UHF
    Kato N Scale Track and Controller Set 2: amzn.to/3Y5hflZ
    More Kato Track Sets: amzn.to/3OYcZQJ
    HO Scale Rail Chief Train Set: amzn.to/3OVJizQ
    O Scale Lionel Polar Express Train Set: amzn.to/3EQLcNu
    O Scale Lionel Hogwarts Express Train Set: amzn.to/3Y5hM7t
    LAYOUT KIT:
    HO Scale Grand Valley Kit: amzn.to/3uiPvN1 (my first adult railroad project)
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    Favorite Online Hobby Shops
    • www.fiferhobby.com
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    Music: www.epidemicsound.com
    #modeltrains
    #switchinglayout
    #Nscale
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    Hi there, my name is Steve and on this channel, I make videos on:
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    More on my website: www.steves-trains.com
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    Favorite Online Hobby Shops
    • www.fiferhobby.com
    • www.horizonhobby.com/
    • www.modeltrainstuff.com
    • www.trainworld.com
    • www.walthers.com
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 169

  • @Linda_Eskin
    @Linda_Eskin Місяць тому +1

    “I’ll just throw together a whole little layout while I wait for this paint to dry.” ;-) Brilliant! This would be a great learning project. I love the game idea, too.

  • @charlesrodman9571
    @charlesrodman9571 3 роки тому +22

    My goodness! You are brilliant with that simple layout to pass time and practice trainyard switching! I'll follow you with two extra modifications, add the bumpers at the end of the tracks and make the switch tracks longer for more cars.
    I look forward to learn more layout tips from you, train guru!

  • @Dishnu
    @Dishnu Рік тому +4

    Thank you for these videos on the micro layouts. I am just getting back in the hobby and do not have a lot of room to create.

  • @jshrawder49
    @jshrawder49 3 роки тому +19

    That is a great idea. How did I not think of that for 40 years. Lol ok off the the basement I go!!

  • @RackwitzG
    @RackwitzG 9 місяців тому +3

    This is a classic Inglenook Siding layout. Interesting for me was to see that a loco runs over the switches by Kato very smoothly.

  • @Calispeedboi
    @Calispeedboi 3 місяці тому +2

    Thank You for making this video it's really changed how I look at building a layout.

  • @lancomedic
    @lancomedic 3 роки тому +2

    Love seeing all the NRUC equipment. I used to work for them in the 70s.

  • @sams2960
    @sams2960 2 роки тому +4

    Great Idea Sir Steve! I just found an old box of N scale: 14 freight cars, 2 cabooses, 4 matching Con Cor Pennsylvania passenger cars and a little Bachman 0-4-0 switcher. Have to be 30 years old judging by the price stickers on the boxes (29.95 for the engine). A little shelf switching layout would allow them to be displayed instead of stuck in some box I didn't know I had. They all have the old style couplers that look like a big backwards C. Looks like a starter Bachman set is a far better deal than buying a power controller separately and it would give me an engine that for sure will run. LOL I would need a "conversion" car or otherwise swap out the trucks/couplers with knuckle couplers but other than that, hey they look still ready to run, each stored in the original cases they came in when purchased. 🙂

  • @thisisgeoman
    @thisisgeoman Рік тому +2

    Thankyou Steve for sharing this video. It made me pickup the hobby where I left it many years ago.
    I borrowed your idea for this simple setup to get me started again. So I inspired upon your function as a game. And made the board a bit bigger so I can practice on creating landscapes/scenery. I’ve never done that before. So this is a good way to restart my hobby and don’t overdo myself in expectations and stuff 🤣

  • @trentonlinerailfan
    @trentonlinerailfan 2 роки тому +3

    I built this cool little layout and it is super fun! Great way to alleviate stress after a hard day at work. Thanks for posting!

  • @Trains-With-Shane
    @Trains-With-Shane Рік тому +1

    The more I use this layout the more I enjoy it. I still need to get around to making up some cards and do an actual switching session on it.

  • @greeneyedggirl
    @greeneyedggirl 3 роки тому +9

    Oh my! This video is so perfect and exactly what I needed right now! It's been decades since I've had trains to play with, or even the time to play with them, recently however I realized how awesome it would be to have a small, n-scale switching layout to play with. Honestly, I've been over thinking it, and this is just perfect!!! Thank you so much for sharing this, I'm going to put one of these together next month so I can play with trains again!!! Awesome!!!

  • @dannyhamby6334
    @dannyhamby6334 3 роки тому +5

    Thanks for the awesome inspiration! I went to my local train shop today and bought Atlas track and cork roadbed and switches today and built this on the front side of my o gauge layout today! Just finished ballasting it a few minutes ago. I used flex track sections and #6 manual switches and a re-railer for very minimal joints. I took my N scales down about 2 years ago and have missed running them some so this really fits the bill for me. I'm going to do scenery and all.. I also bought some "concrete" bumpers that really finished the track ends off. Total cost for all the track Cork road bed and bumpers was $65 not bad.

  • @DIYDigitalRailroad
    @DIYDigitalRailroad 3 роки тому +7

    Now I want to build one of these! (Digs through track tub furiously)

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  3 роки тому +1

      Well, it can be something to do while you think about maybe building another module to connect to the 2x4 foot layout you just finished up.

  • @boneshaker2806
    @boneshaker2806 3 роки тому +2

    Just picked up most of this track list. Gonna give the layout a shot. Looks like fun.

  • @JasonEagle81
    @JasonEagle81 3 роки тому +5

    This is great !! I haven’t been in the hobby for years but definitely something I could do to start and pass time being off work still due to the world event. Thanks for this 👍🏼

  • @MrRandallpa
    @MrRandallpa 3 роки тому +3

    Wow. What a fun layout and great practice.

  • @squalli1297
    @squalli1297 3 роки тому +2

    I was using the 6ft. mantle piece over the fireplace of an older home until I moved into a newer house without one. Your idea is great for small areas with limited but satisfying movement of rolling stock.

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  3 роки тому

      I've seen a few people build small layouts on fireplace mantles. Certainly a nice sized space for a small switching layout.

  • @secretagentbill1
    @secretagentbill1 3 роки тому +2

    I put this together tonight with some old flex track and turnouts that I had ripped off old layout years ago. Not as smooth and polished, but gives me something to run until I get a layout planned in my new home. Thanks for the idea.

  • @alpharailroadproductions
    @alpharailroadproductions 3 роки тому +3

    That’s awesome I am amazed how well that works also great n scale models you have!

  • @majorwoody1720
    @majorwoody1720 3 роки тому +1

    That is a great idea and looks real fun!

  • @carniesaur
    @carniesaur 3 роки тому +7

    Love this! I'm going to do this in Z scale so I can pack it in a suitcase for traveling. I think it will be 4" x 24", or maybe a little less since my suitcase is only 24" long anyway. Thanks for the great idea!

  • @Longshadowsmodeltrees
    @Longshadowsmodeltrees 3 роки тому +2

    Looks like a fun switching Layout. Great idea Steve. Bob

  • @bdwtrains
    @bdwtrains 3 роки тому +2

    Very nice. You encouraged me to build my own too. Thank you

  • @cadenthecadburyengine8198
    @cadenthecadburyengine8198 3 роки тому +5

    I’m doing practically the same thing! Thanks for this!

  • @federicogomez4744
    @federicogomez4744 Рік тому +1

    Simply brilliant!! 👏

  • @raygallagherjr8851
    @raygallagherjr8851 Рік тому +1

    Very interesting, I think I've been looking for this concept in HO. Thanks.

  • @Albireo8
    @Albireo8 2 роки тому

    Excellent job.

  • @darjohnsom9368
    @darjohnsom9368 3 роки тому +1

    I absolutely agree with Jtime I don't have a layout but I can only watch trains go in an oval for so long and this looks like so much fun I will be doing this for sure......I may have to try and put this into an oval......thanks steve going to the train store tomorrow

  • @danmarklinman
    @danmarklinman 3 роки тому +1

    Lovely idea👍 and excellent inspiration

  • @77thTrombone
    @77thTrombone 3 роки тому +12

    In his next installment Steve will teach us how to use the _warped_ pine boards that he ignored in this video.
    The next video will be called "Simple & Portable N Scale Hump Yard"

  • @DinsdalePiranha67
    @DinsdalePiranha67 3 роки тому +3

    I built a layout very similar to this one as my reentry into model railroading about eighteen years ago. I needed it to be small as we were living in a one-bedroom apartment at the time. Mine was built using Atlas track.

  • @kenfolstad1346
    @kenfolstad1346 3 роки тому +1

    Hi Steve , I love this setup and would love to see you scenic it also but no pressure to do it!

  • @isaiahfurrow7414
    @isaiahfurrow7414 Рік тому +2

    Thanks for the video! I have been working on final plans for a layout in my hobby room, but in the meantime I'm going to build a small diorama for testing and programming.... I may do something like this... I also eventually plan to make a small N scale layout, something portable, this would be a great, simple project, so that I'd have a spot to play with N scale cars while I build a little collection for that eventual project. Thanks again for the video.

  • @ringmasterblaze
    @ringmasterblaze 2 роки тому +1

    Love this idea

  • @wm973
    @wm973 3 роки тому +1

    Coolest idea I've seen!

  • @mrmrlee
    @mrmrlee 3 роки тому +3

    Very nice!

  • @sams2960
    @sams2960 2 роки тому +1

    The card idea is brilliant in its pure simplicity. In lieu of white label full size sheet paper, I found some "Self Stick Printable Paper" at the local Dollar General store ($3 for 8 sheets) and cropped all my car pictures to 400 x 200 and put them into a Google Drive Doc page and scaled them to 3 x 1.5 inches each. I got 10 cars on one page. Color print and then quick perimeter cut with paper cutter (scissors also work), I then stuck them onto poster board using an architect triangle to apply without air bubbles. Then I cut them to individual size. Nice firm cards that work out to 3 x 1.5 inches each, about the size of typical board game situation cards used in Monopoly and other games. Now just waiting for my Kato track to show up! Due to the short wheelbase of the 30 yr old Bachman 0-4-0 and truck mounted couplers, I went with Kato #6 turnouts as they have powered frogs and hopefully the little engine that could won't stall out in the turnouts. If not, I couldn't resist and picked up a "still new in box" Arnold RS-1 with rapido couplers from Chicagoland Hobby so I don't have to swap out all the couplers on my 30 yr old cars. After reviews on the Bachman starter sets, I just found an old analog MRC HO/N transformer/power supply on eBay for $30 + $10 for shipping. I have no need to go "high end" with today's expensive DCC equipment so this should be just perfect. Unlike the Kato controller, these old MRC's have 18V AC to power the turnouts if i choose to "go fancy". In my long forgotten cache of stuff, I found some old Atlas daisy chainable turnout control boxes that should do the trick too.

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  2 роки тому

      Nice! Sounds like you have a great setup now for operations.

  • @TripleAAA53
    @TripleAAA53 Рік тому

    Really cool Steve !!

  • @minnesotaeerailroad8471
    @minnesotaeerailroad8471 3 роки тому +1

    Very cool!

  • @jonhilden2556
    @jonhilden2556 Рік тому +1

    Nice idea!

  • @gary-williams
    @gary-williams 6 днів тому +1

    Your cards are about the right size to fit in PVC (firm) collectible card sleeves, which would make handling them somewhat easier if they're going to be used a lot.

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  6 днів тому

      That is a good idea. I should get some of those and size the cards to fit.

  • @bluetopguitar1104
    @bluetopguitar1104 2 роки тому

    Very cool. I would definitely use the edge pieces. I had to tear down a 2x8 n scale layout when I moved. I might even have the track to make this.

  • @timothydemarco3525
    @timothydemarco3525 3 роки тому +3

    Love the video

  • @tonywright8294
    @tonywright8294 3 роки тому +4

    Top tip ,If you clean your hammer head with a piece of sandpaper you will find it’s easier to use ! The nails won’t bend.

  • @gerdeguelle1967
    @gerdeguelle1967 3 роки тому +3

    Nice video

  • @jamesdziendziel9187
    @jamesdziendziel9187 3 роки тому +4

    I love it! Would like to see it scenicked.

    • @cjo.5126
      @cjo.5126 3 роки тому

      I have an HO one. It’s on Instagram @cbqshelflayout. I’m in the middle of building another module to connect to it now.

  • @tonyromano6220
    @tonyromano6220 3 роки тому +4

    Ok! I love the “card” game!
    I want to do the timesaver.....

  • @craiglockridge7667
    @craiglockridge7667 3 роки тому +3

    Hay i like this layout so much I'm going to build one in ho scale i have track box car,s i have#2 NS mp15  GP-15 all DCC i need the wood it will be 1/2 by 8 feet it will be the last ho layout i will do thinking about going G scale so for this layout help me a lot didn't have nothing in mind but when i saw this i New it again thank you .

  • @davidwalker4179
    @davidwalker4179 2 роки тому +1

    late to this, but I like combining the inglenook with a circuit layout with 5 or 6 generic industries that could take any kind of car. adding 6 industries changes the 6200 options to about 4.8 million possibilities. can do it with 3 industries on a 2x4, or 5-6 on a door layout

  • @jormar920
    @jormar920 3 роки тому +1

    Great idea for those of us who are "real estate challenged". Thank you for showing us your terrific layout.

  • @michaelzalewski2532
    @michaelzalewski2532 2 роки тому +1

    Great little layout, will be doing this but will be using blue flags... Blue thumbtacks to block movements so as to shrink inglenook based on rolling stock. 40 footers, 33 twin bay, and you can also run 3-2-2 with 60 footers. Thanks for the inspiration .

  • @deswright2075
    @deswright2075 2 роки тому +1

    Steve,always get plenty of food for thought from your vids,thank you for sharing them with us!
    Blessings from Ireland👍☘

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  2 роки тому

      Thanks! Some friends of mine spent a week over in Ireland in late November and had a great time. They said the Guinness was way better over there than it is here, and it is good here. So I’ll have to get over there sometime.

  • @sergioarroyoguerrero5434
    @sergioarroyoguerrero5434 3 роки тому

    Guau que padre maqueta N para hacer maniobra . Ideo hacer una como esa pero en escala Z para hacer movimiento de patio .

    • @PKCrouse
      @PKCrouse 3 роки тому

      La escala Z sería increíble

  • @jankuhlmann9196
    @jankuhlmann9196 3 роки тому +4

    Great video, but please keep your hands further away from the miter saw blade!

  • @embededfabrication4482
    @embededfabrication4482 Рік тому +1

    I knew a someone had one of these with a hinge in the middle for portability.
    I thought they introduced digital control of engines and switches in model railroads, guess not

  • @rapscallion3506
    @rapscallion3506 2 роки тому

    Inspiring to say the least.

  • @gtc1961
    @gtc1961 Рік тому +1

    Very nice! You should invest in a small pneumatic brad nailer!

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  Рік тому +1

      Actually, I bought one last year for when we were remodeling the house. I replaced all the baseboard molding on the first floor and that cordless nailer saved me many hours of time.

  • @joehendrson3815
    @joehendrson3815 Рік тому

    NICE IDEA LIKE THAT I WANT A LAYOUT JUST DONT HAVE THE ROOM BUT SEEING THIS MIGHT MAKE ME RETHINK THAT. CAN IT BE BIGGER ?

  • @marcroberts5968
    @marcroberts5968 2 роки тому +1

    Just subscribed!! Brilliant. Quick one, does the end of the Kato Unijoiner plug nicely (fit) into the female end of the Rokuhan controller? Cheers!!

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  2 роки тому

      It does! That is why I love those battery powered controllers when using unitrack on small layouts.

  • @markmeade8502
    @markmeade8502 2 роки тому +2

    This is interesting and inspires me to do it since I am limited on space. Since I am new to modeling I have a few questions. 1) What is the tool you use to release cars? 2) How is the turn out operated without a switch ?

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  2 роки тому +4

      I just used a small screw driver. You need one small enough to fit in the couplers but large enough that when you twist it, it is big enough to pop them open. The turnouts have built in slide switches you can use to operate them manually.

  • @splitrock323
    @splitrock323 3 роки тому +1

    Very nice build and description. What are you using for un coupling the cars? How many cars fit on the two shorter tracks?

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  3 роки тому

      I use a small flat headed screw driver. The Inglenook design is such that the long track holds 5 cars and the two shorter ones hold 3 cars each.

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  3 роки тому

      You can also hold 3 cars and the locomotive to the right of the first turnout. You need to have that capacity on each track in order to be able to swap all the cars around.

  • @thejerseyrailroader28
    @thejerseyrailroader28 3 роки тому +2

    Great! Can you make another video on this, maybe a update video and do little scenery on this!

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  3 роки тому +1

      Yep there will be more in time and I will also use this as a test track.

    • @thejerseyrailroader28
      @thejerseyrailroader28 3 роки тому +1

      Nice man. Great idea, good work. It’s small too, perfect size. You can take it around where ever you go! Lol.

    • @thejerseyrailroader28
      @thejerseyrailroader28 3 роки тому +1

      This makes me want to make this!

  • @tombolin7168
    @tombolin7168 3 роки тому

    👍

  • @edyoungstrom2854
    @edyoungstrom2854 3 роки тому +1

    Great video-thanks for sharing.
    Is the connector on the Rokuhan Throttle the same as on Kato? It looks like it.

  • @craigsawdo6986
    @craigsawdo6986 Рік тому

    You have finally got me out of the armchair.

  • @paulrmatzke298
    @paulrmatzke298 6 місяців тому +1

    Hi Steve, what is the make and model of the power supply and the loco.. thanks

  • @jon873
    @jon873 3 роки тому +1

    Great little layout. Where did you get the battery powered throttle? Homemade? Thanks!

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  3 роки тому +1

      It is a Rokuhan throttle. Link in the description.

  • @bamared4429
    @bamared4429 3 роки тому

    Can you tell me the make and model of the engine? I’ve been looking for an NS switcher. Having a little trouble. Thanks.

  • @dallshaw9403
    @dallshaw9403 2 роки тому

    I'd like to try an 8'x12" ho version of this.

  • @paulrmatzke298
    @paulrmatzke298 5 місяців тому +1

    Hi Steve. Did you just cut the power cords off flush on the bottom of the turnouts?

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  5 місяців тому

      I think so, can’t remember offhand.

  • @MARKLINMAN1
    @MARKLINMAN1 2 роки тому

    What loco where you using here? GP40?

  • @alantoulcher4899
    @alantoulcher4899 2 роки тому +1

    Hi Steve ,love the 4’x6” switching layout. Did you ever get around to adding scenery to it,if so can you post a video on UA-cam.regards Alan Toulcher trainman 49.

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  2 роки тому +1

      I did not, but I do plan to build a slightly larger n scale switching layout with scenery. Maybe 1x5 feet.

  • @rajinair1958
    @rajinair1958 Рік тому +1

    Bay side somewhere

  • @doublediamondrailroad5949
    @doublediamondrailroad5949 2 роки тому +1

    Do you have any Conductivity issues after spraying with Brown Camo? I haven’t committed yet on N Scale Track.
    What did you use to clean off rails? What a out protecting Switch Points and Pivot Contacts??

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  2 роки тому +1

      I usually try to cover the contact points with masking tape and try to wipe the rails off immediately after painting. Usually I would use rubbing alcohol but it seems that isn’t the best solvent to use. I have recently tried using no-ox-id on the rails but will have to see how well that works over time.

  • @ssga_tgbuddy3082
    @ssga_tgbuddy3082 3 роки тому +1

    More proof there are just miserable people out there. Who does a dislike on something like this? Maybe it's not for you and just move on.
    Really cool idea.

  • @Trainman0401
    @Trainman0401 3 роки тому +1

    Very cool. Nice job! Question....do they make an automatic decoupler in N gauge?

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  3 роки тому +1

      Kato has uncoupling tracks. I almost used them here but then I would need an extra three inches or so on each of the three yard tracks so 50 foot cars wouldn’t fit unless I used a shorter engine and made the right side shorter. Reliability of the magnets to do the uncoupling varies and if you get just the right sized screw driver it is almost easier to use that.

    • @DinsdalePiranha67
      @DinsdalePiranha67 3 роки тому +1

      @@StevesTrains I added an uncoupling magnet on mine. I made it part of the lead track, so I uncoupled cars and then shoved them into the sidings. I did have to add a little length to the lead doing that, but not enough that I could get an extra car onto it.

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  3 роки тому

      @@DinsdalePiranha67 Oh, that is a smart idea, I didn't think of that.

  • @bubbletea778
    @bubbletea778 5 місяців тому +1

    How do you calculate the 6720 permutations?

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  5 місяців тому

      8! / (8-5)! Is the formula for the number of permutations in a setup with 8 cars and you choosing a specific arrangement of 5 cars.

  • @mike1022
    @mike1022 3 роки тому +1

    @:250...i grew up in Middltown NJ lol

  • @car103d
    @car103d 3 роки тому +2

    Hanoi Tower Railroad! :)

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  3 роки тому +2

      That is pretty much what it is.

    • @car103d
      @car103d 3 роки тому +2

      Steves Trains
      More entertaining than the original for sure! Great idea :)

    • @pt2956
      @pt2956 3 роки тому +1

      It's an Inglenook Puzzle www.wymann.info/ShuntingPuzzles/sw-inglenook.html

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  3 роки тому

      @Peter T Yes it is. It is one of my favorite switching layout designs. Same idea as the Hanoi Tower puzzle/game. Well, no, not exactly, in that one you would have all three the same size and could produce the pattern on any of the posts. But similar.

  • @Yellow_Devil_
    @Yellow_Devil_ Рік тому +1

    Why did use a rerailer track piece on the lead track?

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  Рік тому +2

      Just to make it easier to get rolling stock on the track. It could be placed anywhere.

  • @MrThings101
    @MrThings101 3 роки тому +1

    How many switches and straight pieces do you have there I want to incorporate this into an oval.

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  3 роки тому

      You can see the track plan and parts list on the blog version here: www.steves-trains.com/post/the-executive-switching-layout

  • @joew389
    @joew389 3 роки тому +1

    Steve: What is that brown track piece at 4:04? Re-railer? And who makes it, its not a Kato product that I know of. BTW, nice little switching layout.

    • @Barney-hk3es
      @Barney-hk3es 3 роки тому

      Thats a kato retailer think kato calls it a grade crossing

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  3 роки тому

      Yep, it is the kato re-railer/grade crossing. I just don't have the two side pieces attached that are the road ramps leading up to it.

  • @bgm-1961
    @bgm-1961 3 роки тому +1

    This was a great video... especially for us apartment dwellers! But, as a MR hobbyist myself, switching operations need to be challenging, otherwise the experience becomes stale after just a few sessions. By "challenging", I mean having a time constraint to finish the job, or being graded by the number of moves it takes, etc.
    So do you grade yourself, to keep it challenging? Or use a clock? If you grade yourself, what's the criteria you use?
    Thanks!

    • @dmitze01
      @dmitze01 3 роки тому +1

      As B Hyde pointed out earlier there are 40,320 different possible arrangements of cars and moves with a 5-3-3 Inglenook switching layout so it will take some time before you come across any repetition of moves www.wymann.info/ShuntingPuzzles/Inglenook/inglenook-rules.html

    • @dmitze01
      @dmitze01 3 роки тому +1

      To add the purpose of the Inglenook Sidings game is to arrange the cars in the least amount of moves. Despite being a puzzle the switching in spot order is very realistic, and done regularly by full-size freight railroads in industrial areas all over N. America.

    • @bgm-1961
      @bgm-1961 3 роки тому +1

      @@dmitze01 Well, you're on the right track (sorry). So yeah, the goal is to complete the "puzzle" in the least amount of moves... I get that. So I guess my point was, how do you KNOW what the least amount of moves is, for any given puzzle? And then once you know, you need to grade yourself against that number, otherwise the purpose of the puzzle will become stale very quickly. And it doesn't matter how many combinations of car placements and movements there are. There are only so many times you can move a different car from spot A to spot B or Spot C before the activity itself becomes repetitive, no matter how many different cars or spots there are. Forty thousand combinations can be just as stale as ten combinations after a while.
      So that's why a challenge is needed. As you said, to do it in the least number of moves is a good challenge! Or perhaps you can set a time limit, as if there's a schedule you must adhere to in order to clear the Main. So getting back to doing it in the least number of moves... for example, let's say we KNOW that for a particular puzzle, the least number of moves is seventeen. So if you do it in 17 moves, you score a "100". If you complete the puzzle in 18 moves, you score yourself a 95, and in 20 moves, perhaps an eighty. So the point is to score the highest you can, for each puzzle you face. And then to IMPROVE that score the next time you do the same puzzle. THAT's where the challenge is, so to keep the activity from becoming stale.
      But again, for THAT to work, you need to know what the best possible number of movements is for any given puzzle and that was the gist of my original question... i.e., how does one come up with that criteria?

  • @user-vv3nn4jc3w
    @user-vv3nn4jc3w 5 місяців тому +1

    What is the tool used to uncouple the cars…I am getting back into the hobby so getting acquainted with the new stuff…I am sixties vintage…

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  5 місяців тому +1

      I normally just use a small screwdriver. I might have been using an uncoupling tool here which is similar, just more pointy on the end.

    • @user-vv3nn4jc3w
      @user-vv3nn4jc3w 5 місяців тому

      @@StevesTrains thanks for the reply, much appreciated…just watched your video on battery controllers…gee things have improved from the 70’s…looking to build a Xmas mini tree layout…good place to start…cheers…dbj

  • @paulrmatzke298
    @paulrmatzke298 6 місяців тому +1

    Are you using a slotted head screwdriver to uncouple, and are you putting it in the middle of the two couplers and twisting, or just moving one arm to the left or right side by twisting?

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  6 місяців тому

      Yes, pretty much, just inserting it between couplers and twisting. However, I have found that a Phillips head can actually work better if it is the right size. Trial and error to get the right size but it makes it easier when you can’t see what you are doing very well.

    • @paulrmatzke298
      @paulrmatzke298 6 місяців тому

      Thanks. What loco are you using in that track. Is is a Bachmann Norfolk Southern GP40?

    • @paulrmatzke298
      @paulrmatzke298 6 місяців тому

      ​@@StevesTrainsDid you have to spice the track feeder cable to the Kukajan power leads?

    • @paulrmatzke298
      @paulrmatzke298 6 місяців тому

      Loco doesn't look like a Bachman because of black handrails. What is it?

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  6 місяців тому

      @@paulrmatzke298no, the Kato plug will fit in the Rokuhan controller.

  • @donlawrence4676
    @donlawrence4676 Рік тому +1

    Could this switching Layout be also used as a programing / test track ?

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  Рік тому

      Sure, just connecting the two wires to a DCC system instead and you are good to go. No other changes would be needed on this layout.

  • @buster349100
    @buster349100 2 роки тому +1

    Sweet 😋
    How do you throw the switches?

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  2 роки тому

      Just with the integrated slide switches on the Kato turnouts.

    • @buster349100
      @buster349100 2 роки тому

      @@StevesTrains
      You've never seen any manual switch throws, have you?

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  2 роки тому +1

      I use caboose industries ground throws on my HO switching layout but since the Kato turnouts have the integrated control lever thingy you don’t need any additional manual throws.

  • @ricardojuricic9027
    @ricardojuricic9027 3 роки тому +1

    Please, what size would the board be for HO instead of N?
    Great idea Steve!!👏👏🤣
    Saludos = cheers

    • @Barney-hk3es
      @Barney-hk3es 3 роки тому +1

      About about double so 12"x8'

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  3 роки тому +1

      Yes, about 8’ in HO for 50’ cars but you can do it in 6.5 feet if you limit the cars to 40’ lengths. My HO scale switching layout is basically the same design and is 12”x80” or so.

    • @cjo.5126
      @cjo.5126 3 роки тому +3

      I believe mine is 6’ 2”. I use 2 bay hoppers, so they save a lot of space.

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  3 роки тому +1

      Probably could get it down to 4 feet in HO scale if you went with ore cars since those are only 23-26’ or whatever.

    • @cjo.5126
      @cjo.5126 3 роки тому +2

      Ore cars would be cool because you could sort the different grades of ore too.

  • @jesikebiking
    @jesikebiking 3 роки тому +1

    What is the name of the battery operated power supply ?

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  3 роки тому

      It is a rokuhan throttle. link in the description

  • @shiftintohigh5564
    @shiftintohigh5564 2 роки тому

    What? It can be that simple? I mis running Trains. My mind races. foam a bridge, roadbed and ballast. Very cool!

  • @user-tr6ss9mn8z
    @user-tr6ss9mn8z 3 роки тому

    富士山🗻日本🗾

  • @Mercatoyd
    @Mercatoyd 3 роки тому +2

    proof that there is no reason anyone can't have a layout "if" they really want one.. And, if someone says..well, I don't have a computer and a printer.. ok make sure all of the cars are a different color and make a colored dot on a 3x5 card and do it that way.

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  3 роки тому +2

      You could also have all the cars be the same and just put a sticker with a different number or color on the roof of each car.

    • @DinsdalePiranha67
      @DinsdalePiranha67 3 роки тому

      When I set out to building my Inglenook layout, I bought eight 40-foot cars that looked distinct from each other. That makes things much easier for a layout of this sort.

  • @JakeSweeper
    @JakeSweeper 3 роки тому +1

    Heh... wonder how big this would be in Z-scale or T Gauge. :)

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  3 роки тому +1

      In Z scale it would be about 70% the size of this, or around 2.5' x 3.75'. T Gauge is almost half the size of z scale, so it would be a small layout. I've been tempted to do a T Gauge layout sometime, but I would have to figure out how to see it first. I would need some kind of magnifier type thing to wear to be able to work on it at all.

    • @JakeSweeper
      @JakeSweeper 3 роки тому +1

      @@StevesTrains Well. The Starter kits from TGague do come with a magnifying glass. 😀

  • @NeilLup
    @NeilLup 3 роки тому +1

    How did your son do in the Pinewood Derby?

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  3 роки тому

      This year's derby is on the 30th. The one from a couple years ago, I think he finished first in his den, and my outlaw car took first in the outlaw race.

  • @mxferro
    @mxferro 3 роки тому +2

    June 2021. This is all you'll be able to have as far as a layout goes...$64 bucks for a SINGLE PIECE of 4x8 plywood. At this rate , that switching part you have will be a armchair modeler's "dream layout".

  • @Brad-xd2bt
    @Brad-xd2bt 7 місяців тому +1

    A lot of these tracks pieces are no longer made...

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  7 місяців тому +1

      They are all still made. Some of the shorter pieces are only avialable in track assortment packs and the like.

    • @Brad-xd2bt
      @Brad-xd2bt 7 місяців тому

      @@StevesTrains found out the hard way. I just need the little pieces. Nowhere to be found. Amazon, eBay, hobby stores. No one has them. 20-071 is particularly rare.

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  7 місяців тому +1

      20-091 and 20-092 are the two track assortment packs with those little pieces but I too noticed them out of stock at a couple places I checked. Kato track has a tendency to get shipped over in containers where suddenly everyone has tons of it and the at some point you can’t find anything again for a period of time.

    • @Brad-xd2bt
      @Brad-xd2bt 7 місяців тому

      @StevesTrains thanks for the heads up about those little pieces. I found a shop here that carries the multi packs with them. I am having trouble finding the road crossing. Do you think 200271 would be too big as a replacment?

    • @StevesTrains
      @StevesTrains  7 місяців тому +1

      @@Brad-xd2btthe track piece with that crossing is the same as the other one. Only difference is you get the crossing gates too in the version you mentioned. You don’t have to attach those, so without them it will certainly fit just fine.

  • @G60syncro
    @G60syncro 3 роки тому +1

    Watching paint dry... So boring it makes layouts happen!!