107: Rebuilt My Layout The Regular Guy Way!

[@bruceritchie3874]

G’day from Victoria, Australia 🇦🇺. Ive been a huge fan of your channel since I discovered it some months ago. I gotta say Mate, you’re a man after my own heart when it comes to this awesome hobby. I’ve been around it for about 50 years, built several exhibition layouts and have finally started something in my garage for me ( the difference between your location and mine is the ‘Minister for domestic affairs’ cant get her car in). I love the way you just get into the project at hand and have a crack. A friend and my mentor Laurie Green (RIP) use to say to me “The biggest reason for not doing something on the layout is the fear of failure, try it and learn from the experience”. I apply this to everything I do on my layout - even after 50 years. I use to build layouts with the viewing public in mind, now it’s just me I have to satisfy, and that’s thanks to you Mate. So grab a beer from your fridge and I’ll do the same from mine (dedicated to cold beverages only) and we’ll toast 2025, the folks in this wonderful hobby and our ‘Have a crack’ attitude. Cheers 🍻 - Bruce

[@pathvalleyrailroad9277]

Yay! Switch Junction LIVES! albeit in a reduced form...but I'm glad to see it survives at least a little bit. Looks like you have a much more manageable and enjoyable railroad in the works.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Yep PVRR, I just couldn't bring myself to eliminating SJ. I can actually put in a turn out and switch an industry or two at that location if I want. That'll give back more of the "glory" of days gone by. Beauty is, I can decide down the road what I want to do and I have made provision for it. Thanks!

[@N-Scale]

Good for you Steve. I am happy for you guys and the grand kids. I always like the idea of a new and improved layout plan !!!!

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Thanks Mike! Hope you and Robin are safe and have a great holiday season!

[@N-Scale]

@@ItsMyRailroad Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

[@mr.c2363]

LOOKS GREAT!

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Thanks brother!

[@donaldshroyer8633]

Good to see you satisfied with your layout again. Model on, brother.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hi Donald! Thanks for the comment and model-on is part of the plan :)

[@ericp6612]

Great progress!! Looks good!

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Thanks Eric!

[@beast1624]

👍👍 You Rock! Almost exactly what I did on my Slot Car Track...right down to the Beer Fridge. And eventually the Kegerator 😉😉

[@ItsMyRailroad]

The beer fridge is what makes the scene LOL! Thanks Beast!

[@kingsleyrocketry]

Big fan, nice video! Good to see that you’re choosing what’s best for your railroad needs

[@jasonstevens2984]

Rxrz

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Thanks Kinzio! I really like the new layout!

[@kingsleyrocketry]

@@ItsMyRailroad thanks! (It’s kingzlo with an L by the way) I’ve been working on my own n scale layout for a while now, its going to model the New York Central and New Haven lines in the early/mid 1950s, and I got a lot of inspiration from watching your videos, so thank you for that!

[@harperlarry49]

That is super cool. I really like what you have done. This layout looks like it will be a lot of fun to build. Great job. Oh, yeah.... Good to see you again.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hey Larry! Thanks for chiming in and for the encouragement over the years. I'll pass along to Cyndi. Rail-on brother!

[@ReidsTrainStuff]

That looks like it'll be fun to operate Steve, can't wait to see what you do with it, also you definitely seem a lot happier with what you doing, awesome stuff mate 👍👍👍Reid.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hey Reid! Yep, definitely a lot happier. I think it will be cool to see all the scenery in. After that, I can pick a scene and expand operations. I really dig this version and vision. Rail-on my old friend!

[@AlasCon]

Regular Guy triumph! Man, this is inspiring. I've been struggling to restart after like 45 years... I built my benchwork, foam top, but then got very frustrated with track planning software and the like. I found your channel, watched it all, and binned the "planning to perfection" approach. I'm now outlining rough tracks, and just started building. Love the "It's my railroad" philosophy: have fun, it's a hobby, not homework! And YES: the goal is to see a train running, finally, one of these days! Thank you so much!

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hey Con! I am totally pumped about the "main line" and the rest later. Gets trains running and gives time to decide what you want to do next. Good luck on your layout brother!

[@patrickhawes5007]

Love what your doing Steve. Fell off watching KZbin for a while and bam! You changed it all up. Thanks and Cheers 🍻!

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hi Patrick! Yep, don't blink when it comes to IMRR! LOL! It's a dynamic situation over here. Appreciate you watching and for the comment my friend!

[@terrybrockway5376]

Great to have you back. Thank-you for sharing.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Thanks for the comment and encouragement Terry!

[@ProspectorsGhost]

I like your new layout even better than your old layout. Thanks for sharing it Steve. Looking forward to seeing all the improvements you are planning on adding to it.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

I am totally pumped about this one. Hopefully you'll enjoy watching me get rid of all that "plywood" LOL! Thanks for the comment and rail-on my friend!

[@NicholassTrainChannel]

Great update. Nice to see you have got trains running back again. I agree sometimes simple is better. Look forward to some scenery videos. - Nicholas.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hi Nicholas! Yep, scenery and maybe some ops is what's coming. Really want to get the hills in the back done early on. Maybe next. Thanks for the comment and rail-on!

[@graemehansell7642]

Hi Steve. Greetings from a Brit living in Austria. I do hope you will retain the coal mine - it was a fantastic part of your previous layout. Looking very good.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

A Brit in Austria? Well, there you go! The coal mine presently does not have a home. But, I have all kinds of provisions! Thanks for the comment and rail-on my friend!

[@boomerdiorama]

I think the track height is awesome @ fifty-five inches. Mine is 58" and I love it. It feels like you are walking into the railroad. It's hard to describe, but it's awesome. Wait until you get the scenery going, you will love the height even more. I just reach in from a sturdy step ladder to reach the rear - no biggie, and it's worth the compromise. Looking good! Cheers ~ Boomer.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hey Boomer! I agree and feel the same way. It's no big deal to stand on a step to work on the scenery in the back. I can reach all the track just fine, and I totally dig "walking into" the scene. You and I are definitely "tracking" :)

[@boomerdiorama]

@@ItsMyRailroad ;-)

[@cwbywy9544]

I was wondering why the height was so tall. I can see where you wouldn't get the same effect at 48". I think at 48", all I would achieve is a back ache.

[@boomerdiorama]

@@cwbywy9544 No back ache here. Just unreal trackside immersion. Happy Holidays! ;-)

[@BlisternRaceway]

I'm excited for this layout! Glad you're liking it as well. Can't wait to see more!

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hi Dakota! More to come for sure! Rail-on!

[@goodrails]

Phenominal! I love your delivery and the 'Guiding Philosophy' of this layout. I am really glad you took this direction. My wife, (Director of the bureau of Land Management), also enjoyed the vid and wonders if you are my long lost brother.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

I'm SOMEbody's long lost brother I'm sure LOL! Thanks for the encouragement and all my best to the Director of the Bureau of Land Management!

[@eugenececcano2853]

I love the new layout. More fun and less stress is the way to go. look forward to seeing the upcoming developments .

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Thanks for that encouragement and for watching, Eugene! Loving the new layout right now!

[@jacjac5761]

You finally finished it! You did a wonderful job! Miss you Saturday podcast 😢

[@gvet47]

What a change in the way you are thinking about your layout. Looks like it will be a lot easy to see trains run. It will be interesting to see how it developes.,👍

[@ItsMyRailroad]

After I go past the "OMG, I'm tearing out 3 years work of railroad" the rest was easy. I often just run a train and watch it whilst enjoying my fav beer. Thanks for the comment and rail-on my friend!

[@jimnelson1969]

Glad your back sir.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hi Jim! I try to put one out every month or so. Like I said in the video, it has to be something I'm excited about. Really appreciate the comment my friend!

[@Beatlefan67]

Good for you for all the re-use/re-cycle/re-purposing - I love doing that myself.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hi Johnny! It was sure nice to re-use so much stuff. Saved a bunch of money and made things go quicker too! Thanks for the comment and rail-on my friend!

[@dumptruckdave423]

Very Nice Layout!! I really appreciatte your explaining it all!!!

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Thanks DTD, and for the encouragement. Rail-on brother!

[@Wrathchildss]

Great video! I did something similar last week, made my double track main into a single, added a passing siding. I’m much more happy with it now. Less wiring, less voltage and such! Glad to see I’m not the only one who makes significant changes.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

John, you are living proof that I'm not crazy! LOL! (Well, I'm a little crazy heh heh) Sometimes simpler is the real answer to railroad happiness. Thanks for the comment and rail-on brother!

[@Wrathchildss]

I think we’re all a little crazy…thanks!

[@lowcountryrailroad7701]

Awesome new layout. Your work is one of the first i started following. Your work is a great help to anyone like me just starting a layout. Thank you for sharing and i will be looking for future videos. Thanks David

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Wow, David! Thanks for that. Totally appreciate the support and encouragement!

[@williamwhite4833]

Glad to see you back. I always enjoy your videos and your personality.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Thank you so much!

[@peterainsworth8466]

That's great progress in a short period of time. I like the simple design a lot. Well done.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hey Peter! The simple design is very liberating. I'm glad you like it as well. Rail-on!

[@edfannon1119]

Great to see you again Steve. new layout looks like it will be fabulous. I look forward to the next instalment. stay cool.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hey Ed! It's that time of year where "cool" is all I get LOL! Thanks for watching and for the comment my friend!

[@guleri]

The new design looks very good. Must be great to see the train all the time as it runs on your layout. Looking forward to seeing future videos on your work on this layout.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Yep Erik, I am totally digging this. More vids coming, Thanks for the comment and rail-on!

[@islandofmisfittrains5114]

This was an awesome early morning surprise to watch. Glad to see the new railroad is up and running

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Me too! LOL! Thanks for watching my friend!

[@tompetty1880]

You’re a star. 100% appreciate your philosophy, keep it simple. Check out the Mouldy Raspberry layout in the UK. Simple track work but boy the scenery is something else!

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hi Tom! I am hoping to have a bunch of great scenery as well before I start adding the other scenes. Stay tuned my friend!

[@anthonyshipman3611]

The new layout looks brilliant Steve.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Thanks Anthony!

[@magnificus8581]

Beer mini fridge was one of our first additions to our layout, too!

[@ItsMyRailroad]

It really makes the whole thing work, right? LOL! Thanks Craig!

[@peterpocock9062]

Steve, I very much like the idea of getting trains running then adding the interest points. It's what I have done too. It is inevitable that one will soon see where changes can be made, and so they should be! Actually it's part of "growing the layout". I'll look forward to your adventure.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hi Peter! Well, I thought this was a unique idea but it seems you're way ahead of me. Thanks for watching the video, and for the comment, and rail-on!

[@rbhhaner6151]

I realy like the basics of this layout Steve.. Is alot more open and will be a great operation for you and I look forward to seeing how you progress thru the projects.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Thanks 👍

[@darrenlogue9654]

And by the way they're Steve to you and your family have a most triumphant Christmas and a Happy New Year

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Likewise my friend!

[@darrenlogue9654]

Thank you dear Steve and I look forward to more of your videos so I can watch him and you're giving me good ideas I think you and I appreciate it a lot but I'm going to keep on watching what you putting out so Merry Christmas and Happy New Year by the way Steve I was wondering what the state are you broadcasting from you don't mind me asking

[@michaelpfister1283]

Love the overview video! Thank you for sharing. I was just beginning to toy with the idea of helix-fed lower levels and such, and you may have saved me from myself. What you're doing with this is exactly what I am after! I look forward to seeing you develop these areas in the weeks/years ahead!

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hi Michael! I gotta tell you, 2 decks is not what it's cracked up to be. Roy Smith over at the Union Pacific Evanston Subdivision (comment below) is saying the same thing. 2 things: 2 decks generally means a bigger layout that may take the rest of your life to get scenery on, and you generally have to lose sight of the trains for a bit to make the transitions, and finally, reaching under the top deck to work on the bottom deck SUCKS! I am here to tell you. At the end of the day, do what works for you.

[@dhgast4198]

Steve; congrats on your progress thus far. Like you, I restarted my HO railroad and downsized to about 10x15; after a few landfill runs I repurposed wood to finish the project. This is the first time I've ever used foamboard as a base so learning my way through that idea. You have made much more progress and the layout is looking good. Keep pushing forward; look forward to see your progress.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Foam board is not a bad idea. It gives you options for the future. I reused my OSB because I had it and didn't want to spend the money on foam. Think you're off to a great start. Keep it coming and rail-on my friend!

[@garystrutt2078]

Love the new yard. Might have to steal that idea. Rail on.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Go for it! Thanks Gary!

[@conrailhbgline]

A group I belong to has a phrase they like to say to not sweat details until needed - JFRTM. Most are into operations, but they want to get those trains running the length of the layout as soon as possible. Looking forward to this adventure!

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hey Phil! What I dig about this version is I was able to get continuous running happening quickly and I also OPs. Seemingly the beat of both worlds I would say. Stay strong and rail-on my friend!

[@danielsturtz1146]

Steve, exciting stuff in the works! i love the new look and use of the space. I look forward to seeing the next video!

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Thanks Daniel! Totally digging this and hopefully you folks will enjoy watching the progress. Be safe, and rail-on my friend!

[@mrmrlee]

This version 3.0 will always be my favorite of all your layouts.

[@Phoenixknight79]

Hey Steve, I am loving the 3.0 version, can't wait to see what all will be done.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Thanks a ton for that encouragement Steven!

[@davidrutski2411]

Steve I must say I really enjoy watching your videos your passion and your personality is awesome it’s so true you learn so much through your mistakes even after 30 years of modeling in N scale.. I fine I’m always looking for ways to make the layout better it is continuously evolving I guess you can say it’s my railroad. Keep the videos coming brother!

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hey David! Yep, I'm about 5 years into this now and still working on new ideas. Pretty sure this build is the last until I move someday. It'll be nice to not see plywood anymore for sure. Thanks for the comment and rail-on my friend!

[@kkuehne45]

I think this is going to be a huge success. You construct at a faster rate than I do for sure!

[@ItsMyRailroad]

LOL! It's call obsession Ken! Basically, I go to work, work on the layout, and sleep :) Thanks buddy!

[@vin6135]

Love the direction you’re heading in with this version. Definitely going to steal some inspiration from you. Great progress in a short period of time. Looking forward to more updates.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hi Vin! Steal away my friend! However, you need to know that some on some of this I just fly by the seat of my pants LOL!

[@darrenlogue9654]

Hey Steve this is Darren from Wisconsin it's looking good there buddy I like it it's looking real good I've been following your channel for quite a while now and I like everything you're doing that's awesome so happy rails there buddy keep on doing what you're doing until the first lady of model railroading I said hi all right talk to you then laters

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hi Darren, and thanks a ton for your support and encouragement! I'll make sure and pass along to The 1st Lady. Rail-on my friend!

[@Morganstein-Railroad]

Well Done, Steve! You've done what I would have loved to have done, but then you've got the space for it. Great that you've got the main line set up from the off, and you've given yourself the option of putting industries and town sites in various places around the layout. Really good to see trains (OK, One train) running around the layout again. I think, however that Bentleyville yard is a bit compact, but then it depends on what you have planned . Since you like running those 20 car vtrains, it does make me wonder how you're going to deal with them in that small yard. Never mind, you'll show us in some future video, and after all (As the channel name says) It's YOUR Railroad. All I can Say is - It looks great, it's an improvement on the twin deck version, you can see the trains all the time they're running, and it's just what I would like if I had the space for it. Great.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Bah! The 20 car trains are just for demonstration. Regular ops are set up for 12 cars or less. The layout as it is can't support more than that. Thanks for the comment and rail-on!

[@stanleym2679]

Really like your new layout ,bright and opened up everything , been filling since your frist shelf layout which got me going again in the hobby for my own little shelf empire, keep up the fantastic work

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hi Stanley! That's awesome encouragement brother! Hope you're still digging what you're doing!

[@darylhitchcock7680]

Simplicity... Good work... Always enjoy the postings...

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Glad you like them! Thanks Daryl!

[@BLUE6_6]

Great episode Mr Brown!!! Not into N scale, I'm a Ho scale person.... However, I'm in the collecting and planning stages of my layout... The main thing I have to do is build my bench work in my Man Cave..... But first, I have to buy more tools..... Love watching your videos for the great tips and advice.....

[@fbrailroad4628]

Steve, you got a lot done and it looks great as well as a much simpler layout. I can't wait to see you doing some more scenery and structure builds. I will be looking forward to seeing the opps with you and your wife. Thanks for sharing, David

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hi David! Had to take that break to get caught up on the new stuff. Got some great ideas for the next steps. Hopefully you'll dig it as much as I do. Thanks for the comment and rail-on my friend!

[@anthonyiasbarrone3079]

Wow im amazed again my friend ...Steve im glad ur incorporating switch junction and the logging sections ...those are my favorites...im impressed you wife Cindy is going to run ops with you as well. The new layout is freakin incredible cant wait to go on this journey with you my friend ...God bless and Merry Christmas

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Yo Anthony, one of my longest supporters! Appreciate the sentiment my friend. Yep, Cyndi and I are going to run and OP for MR. I've been "practicing" to make sure everything runs well. So far so good. I've go the mountains to do next I think, and then the yard. After that, I'm looking towards SJ :) Thanks a ton for being a part of this channel and what I do for all this time. Means a lot.

[@july8xx]

Two years ago I made a prediction to my son that as soon as Steve gets his setup near completion he will take it all down again and start over. Watching Steve I realized he is much more interested in construction and innovation in the building process than just running a completed project. His passion is creating ways to build and improve his layouts ;-).

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Wow! It's like you're in my hobby room! THIS time, I think I nailed it. This is not to say that I won't tear it all out and start over in the future. For now, I am totally pumped about what I've got in the hobby room. Time to more closer to some sort of completion. Thanks for hanging out and rail-on my friend!

[@NWAdventures206]

Steve you have constructed another master build, excited to see how you build this up into another amazing layout.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

You pay me too much credit. Not done with it yet LOL! Thanks for the encouragement though!

[@greeneyedggirl]

Oh my, this looks so awesome!!! I love it!!!

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Thank you Samantha! Cheers!

[@deanbyrd9319]

The other guys doing Model Railroad videos need to take cues from you and how you present your material. Other guys seem to be monotone and not the least excited about what they do. You are so much more entertaining. Also I am anxiously waiting for episode 108. Happy new year sir.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hi Dean! Wow! Thanks for that encouragement my friend. Very much appreciated. I've got 108 in the works. Probably going to be another couple of weeks though! Stay tuned, and thanks again!

[@jeffreymcconnell6794]

Looking great, Steve! Like the design and the ability to run and switch at the same time. Keep up the great work!

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hey Jeffery! Honestly it's turning out better than I originally planned. Been running ops and having an AQWESOME time. Thanks for the comment and you support my friend!

[@jamesnear3911]

That will be a very nice one. Nice long trains. Waiting to see more. Rail on and be safe.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Thanks James! More is coming my friend!

[@n-scaleunionpacificevansto6569]

Steve, you're 6'3" and so am I. Your layout height is 55" and mine's 56" We're right on! I really like the way you've scaled down. Now if I could just get rid of my helices. Railfanning my own layout - that's all I really want to do. I really like your idea of being able to see the entire layout from one vantage point. ...Roy

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hi Roy! Getting rid of those helices would be no small matter. I gotta tell you though, I really like seeing the layout higher up and wide open. Be safe my good man!

[@raymondrion6712]

Nice and simple,less stress ,good use of the wire, Have a Merry Christmas and A Happy New year, stay safe.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Thanks, you too Raymond!

[@SmithOfGear92]

Glad to see your layout reborn Steve! Just a word of warning: it's not recommended you use isopropyl alcohol for track cleaning as it can interfere with your track's conductivity. There are certain products that can keep your track clean while ensuring good conductivity and even keep your track in good condition. I even saw this one railroader cleaning the track of his massive HO empire with a sock-- yeah; two fingers in an old sock and he just runs them along the rails of the entire empire.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Ahhhh... Depending on whom you ask, there are all sorts of do's and don'ts for track cleaning. My advice: use what works for you but know you will ALWAYS need to clean your track. Thanks for the comment and rail-on Pat!

[@SmithOfGear92]

@@ItsMyRailroad Thanks Steve! Happy Railroading! 😄🚂

[@sturnie1]

Thanks for the share Steve finally got some motivation to start my new layout. Keep up these videos they helped a lot.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Shove off and get that layout going my friend!

[@brianwalter2793]

Love it this is actually a more doable kinda design so glad u definitely didn't give up

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Yeah Brian, it's definitely something I can get my arms around. Thanks for the support brother!

[@gregbowen617]

Wow, a huge amount of changes… it’s looking great so far so I hope it will be better for you to operate and develop…cheers from Melbourne Australia 🇦🇺

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hey Greg! Hope things are awesome down-under. This is a pretty cool design that give me all of what I was hoping to get from the last one. Totally digging it! Thanks for watching, and rail-on mate!

[@jaybird111207]

That is awesome and looks great!! I like your perspective on leaving some open areas to keep your options available as far as scenery and switching goes. Lots of potential!! Thanks for sharing and stay safe. Happy modeling!! -Jason

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Yo Jason! Thanks for the comment and encouragement! Rail-on brother!

[@jolliemark6294]

Well sorry to see the old layout go, but like you I've over thought my layout too. Thanks to you I'm stepping back and rethink my layout. 👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hey J! Doing what I do is a double edge sword my friend. I'll head a way, then I BLOW UP the way, then head another way LOL! Have fun keeping up my old friend, and rail-on!~

[@newfenrisrailroad621]

Looking good my friend. Wow 3 yrs been a long time now that I think back that’s how long I’ve been back in model railroading and am currently working on my 3.0 version of the new fenris railroad and trying to remember to turn my camera on and some 3D printing projects for the layout.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Brother, you have been a part of what I do for a long time. It is much appreciated and I totally dig your support and encouragement. Stay strong my friend!

[@MRR_Shadowolf]

Liking v3.0. Great use of space!

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Thanks for the comment and encouragement my friend!

[@allenbarnes7202]

Like the way you reconstructed, i have moved to a larger room for the layout. Keep the videos coming, totally enjoy them.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Thanks, will do!

[@stefanekstrom1137]

Best decision you made, Steve. Things looks great. Can’t wait for the next video. ”To watch my trains running”. That’s whats its all about, isn’t it? Now I have to do the same. Stuck in constant building and no running.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hey Stefan! I was stuck in "constant building and no running" as well. Sorry, that just doesn't work for me. I have been running big trains, and doing switching ops and I am having a freaking blast! Maybe the simpler layout is he better layout. We'll see. Thanks for the comment and for watching the vide my freind!

[@paredding]

Very impressed with your layout construction on a mezzanine level in the garage - great use of space

[@fontoo1]

WOW, WOW, WOW. I just stumbled across this video and I am impressed beyond words. I really enjoy the regular guy approach as I want to be able to model the way I want and not feel like I need to answer to why I did it that way. I also like the idea of having a basic plan in place and running trains as I think of what I want to add or delete. The lighter approach to model railroading is so refreshing. Thanks for the inspiration!

[@dave3301]

Steve, Thank you for sharing, Merry Christmas to you and yours. Until the next video, take care.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Happy Holidays Dave! All the best to you and yours!

[@thehastyterrainmaker9485]

Looking great on the rebuild! I often do scenery when I am not sure what to do next. Easy to clear it off and lay down track

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Exactly my thought! I am just done looking at plywood. 3 years is far too long LOL!

[@thehastyterrainmaker9485]

@@ItsMyRailroad I BET! 4 months on two sections undone AND flocked/trees added in and I am sick of looking at undone track work and keep thinking AT least I have scenery to keep me a little sane lol. I live in a region where weather changes are FAST and severe, and I am experiencing expansion issues... I DON'T want to do more work until I figure things out BUT I WANT to finish it so I can finish my scenery too lol

[@gregorydraghici8955]

Great advice for using CAT6 cable to wire your railroad as I am doing the same with mine as it is much cheaper (I got it all free as I use to work construction in the past and still have lots), and it is a solid strand wire so it is easy to solder to your rails for feeder wires.

[@SoRTs6233]

Nice one, Steve. Will be watching your progress with interest. Could be a lesson for some of us who want to rush construction just to get trains running - a bit at a time, leaving options open. Cheers, Jim L

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hi Jim! Rushing progress isn't always a bad thing. In my case, it didn't work out so well. Totally digging the new version. Thanks for the comment and for watching, and rail-on my friend!

[@jeffklockowskisr8377]

Great video keep on rolling along !

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Thanks Jeff, will do!

[@michaelsullivan3581]

Look at you go Steve! Lookin' good! And most importantly... trains are running! Nice!

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Thanks Michael! I'm having a blast with this. Thanks for the comment and for watching my friend!

[@orchardvalley9354]

Hi Steve, great to see you back. love the new look to your layout lots of scope for the future. Just starting my first modelling adventure with n gauge. Got myself a board 6'6" x 3'6" until I get my new shed 12' x 8'. Keep safe, you and your family have a great Christmas. Kev UK

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hey Kev! Even a 6'6" X 3'6" set-up can rock. My first was 12" deep along an 8' and 11' wall. Had plenty of good times with that layout. Say "hi", to the Queen for me :)

[@evileyeball]

The algorytm of youtube fed me yout channel :) Nice job. I'm a guy who loves model railways but doesn't have the time / money / space / etc at present to have one of my own so I live vicariously through youtube videos from modelers such that if I ever do get the Time / Money / Space / Etc to have my own layout I will have many good ideas to go on.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Welcome to the channel! Like you I spent a great deal of time watching others rail-on because I couldn't do it myself. It's part of the experience. Now that I have space, and a couple of bucks, I just love what I do. Thanks for watching and for the comment my friend!

[@dexterdog62]

Wouldn’t be a Regular Guy video without at least a “Boom!” or two.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Here's a Christmas gift from me to you , "BOOM!" LOL! Thanks Dexter!

[@peetywondr3256]

Steve, love your channel . . . Kudos on the Cat 6 wire, I use it for all my "signaling" feeds. I'm running DC and use magnetic reed switches for train "location". My control panel has a corresponding LED attached to each of the those reed switches and it lights whenever my locos go by one. I did this because I can't "see" my train when it's in my helix. Having been a telecommunications tech in my earlier years, Cat style wire color codes are a no-brainer for me . . . keep up the GREAT! videos - you da man. FWIW, I'm building a two level intertwined bent "dog-bone" configuration - most of my industries are ion the first level, coal mine and logging camp / lumber mill are on the upper level.

[@MrBsHiawathalandRails]

A great new start. What you have looks great.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Thanks Mr B! Appreciate the encouragement!

[@phil36310]

I haven't been following for quite some time but your new layout caught my eye and indeed this 'less is so much more' and exponential fun. Well done Steve. The potential with the wide open spaces cries for intense and satisfying creativity... and that's what model railroading is all about imho. And I jump right in to follow your new exploits. Thanks for sharing. Cheers from 'a regular model railroader' in the heart of France. Success, Filip

[@jvanamb]

Great job Steve, I'm a member of the R.P.I. train club and for years I have poo-pooed CAT-6 for trunk, feeders, & drop wires. Even if Rensselaer Poly has it throughout. Well last Wednesday my nephew received to Building Commissions OK to open passageways into the next room to reassemble my NVR/WAS RxR. And my R.P.I. buddies will install CAT-6 to what will end up with about 14.5. Miles of trackage on HO Scale (or over 1450 miles real rail). Good stuff. I hope and pray when your grandkids come to visit the Brown-Smith RxR you get some wide eyed fascination fanning Ops for all your platforms. Or maybe a 🎆🪅FLASH LIVE STREAM🧨🎇. Till we meet again. My love to Cyndi. Merry Christmas and Healthy New Year to all of your family, Jim

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Jim, for something that big, running buss #14 is probably best for voltage drop. But, once in a scene, you can switch to the cat6 for ease. That might be a good compromise in my opinion.

[@jvanamb]

@@ItsMyRailroad Fantastic idea Steve. Now that we have the distruction and construction permits we can restart the rebuild the second or third week in January 2022. Just as soon as some of the college train buddies get back from break. Love to Cyndi, Jim

[@FLRailroaddog]

Awesome, I enjoy your videos and funny commentary, you make the hobby so much better.. 😊👍

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Thanks FLR! Just doing my job LOL!

[@sky_dancer6821]

Everybody dreams of the big huge railroad and then they find out what a maintenance headache they are. I have a spare room sized single decked U shaped HO layout that runs along three walls. I may add about another 20 square feet to it if I ever get a bigger area but that's absolutely as big as it will get.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

What I originally built was more of a club sized layout. Not great for one regular guy. Loving what I have now. Thanks for the comment and for watching!

[@RayBoebel]

Looking awesome Steve! One of the things on my current build is I wanted point to point with continuous running. My old "pikes" were 3 or 4track mains, I'm down to 2 and loving it! One thing with mine that still freaks folks out is my 2 "off layout" staging yards. Both are hidden behind what will be a backdrop. The layout sit in an area 34ft x 8ft. I have created a monster, but, just like you, Its My Railroad!

[@ItsMyRailroad]

I love your attitude Ray! Do what works for you and enjoy the time! Rail-on!

[@franwilson2097]

I like your attitude Steve it's your RR,I haven't done much on mine for months,into wood turning,but back at it after get some xmas stuff done in wood shop,thumbs up

[@ItsMyRailroad]

I have learned that the layout will still be there when you return :) If I had a woodworking shop here, you may see less MR videos for sure. Take care my friend!

[@bernierodriguez662]

Steve this is an awesome channel. You are very down to earth. Unfortunately our hobby has to many. Old grump guys especially at train shows this is why i buy on line now instead of going to shows. You make it easy and comfortable to ask questions and learn. I am subscribing .👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Bernie, to expose a family secret, it's the people you describe that inspired me to start this channel. Whatever with the "old grumpy" types, and rail-on to the regular guy railer!

[@cwbywy9544]

Steve! This is going to be amazing.. but honestly I liked your last one... and the one before that at the old place. My favorite scene was the logging camp I lived how excited you were with the two truck Shea. Glad your friends is Aussie replaced it for ya. Also Happy Cindy will be helping ya out in future videos.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Thanks for knowing the history of this sucker. Hopefully you'll come to love the new scenes as much as the old. But even if you don't, I totally appreciate your loyalty and support my friend!

[@stephenriley9084]

Steve, Revelation to me as I now only see the video released into the wild. Looks like a lot of fun. Regards Stephen.

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hey Stephen! Dig seeing your comment my friend. Been seeing them for quite a long time and it's always appreciated!

[@stephenriley9084]

Steve, The clear view across your new setup is very appealing. Great having the rolling stock out in the open.... rolling down the railroad! Stay safe! Regards to the first lady. Stephen.

[@rbhhaner6151]

You look alot happier with this design

[@ItsMyRailroad]

I am :)

[@dalerobertson9394]

Hey Steve, Followed you and watched since the beginning. Love the layouts, excited to see the new one. Looks totally awesome. Signed up as a channel member. Rail on!

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hi Dale! Thanks a TON for that channel membership! I'm sure you will enjoy it. Thanks too for following my channel for so long. We've come a long way brother!

[@Poke_Buck]

Can’t wait to see this grow, I am currently getting ready to start making my own layout and I am just winging it as well

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Hey Austin! One of my best pieces of advise is just shove off! Get going and see what happens. You can always redo it or even start over. What matters is time well spent. Rail-on my friend!

[@Madhuntr]

Finally you're back. Was wondering what was taking you so long 😁 Good to see that you revised the whole thing and went for a nice and simple single deck layout. I can understand people who just want as much as possible in their available space but always thought that this was a bit much and it always made the Railroad look cramped. I myself did something similar to what you did now. Have a nice and simple layout that is not chokablock full but leaves room for extension and reworks. Did that a bunch and looking forward to seeing more from you now

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Yep, totally digging this decision. Thanks for the encouragement and rail-on my friend!

[@LRSX]

Great update, I did similar, planned my main and yard. I'll figure out sidings as I go as well. I actually think it's a good idea, easier to visualize things. Keep up the great work!

[@ItsMyRailroad]

Great minds think alike eh?! Thanks for the comment and for watching my friend!