Extending Model Railroad Track & Wiring Turnouts on River Road | Boomer Diorama ~ # 307

[@thecnwmondovilinepaulscota7304]

That's some beautiful track work, especially those sweeping curved turnouts! Question: I understand the red and black wires and how they connect to the buss. Was there only a single yellow wire on the frog? and where does it connect?

[@boomerdiorama]

Great question! 👍 The single yellow wire can attach to the switch machine, which in turn, switches the polarity depending on the route selection through the turnout. An even easier option is if you use a "frog juicer." A frog juicer will switch the frog (yellow wire) polarity automatically and prevent a short regardless of the direction you travel through the turnout. - I love frog juicers . . . 😉 Because frogs (especially on large curved turnouts) are large enough to induce a significant "dead" spot, especially with four axle switchers, you want to make sure they are live when you switch back and forth over them. Cheers.

[@thecnwmondovilinepaulscota7304]

@ Thank you for that reply!

[@crazyfvck]

@@boomerdiorama Yeah, I use the juicers made by Tam Valley, and they have always worked well for me :)

[@boomerdiorama]

@@thecnwmondovilinepaulscota7304 👍

[@cncpgreatlakesdiv4896]

Fantastic thanks for Sharing this awesome layout my Friend.😊😊👍👍

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you and . . . Thanks for watching! Cheers!

[@jasonminier6782]

It must be such a joyous feeling when you have spent such time and precision on a track like this, then run a locomotive on it for the first time and it runs flawlessly.

[@boomerdiorama]

It really does for sure. I guess I build as I experience the real railroad trackside. The way I rail fan is the way I build a layout. I only need to see it up close and personal to be satisfied. Then it pulls away and so do I . . . over and over again. ;-)

[@jasonminier6782]

@@boomerdiorama I wish I, and more modelers had that patience, and patience.

[@franckb473]

Travail exceptionnel sur des aiguillages en courbes! Superbe 🤩

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you. Cheers!

[@What_If_We_Tried]

The way you calmly, yet brutally attacked that white plastic tie / sleeper with nippers to prepare that turnout for soldering was really entertaining, and I got a chuckle out of it.

[@boomerdiorama]

Just another day in the model railroad world . . . LOL.

[@brucewoods9377]

I love your sectional approach to layout build and how you have the ability to alter geometry as you go from section to section. The completed sections always providing inspiration for the next. Everything is so relaxing and enjoyable

[@boomerdiorama]

The modular approach helps to break down the task and keep the momentum going.

[@PeterTillman3]

Can’t wait to see section 3 and beyond! The barn looks so cool 👌

[@boomerdiorama]

You are awesome! Thank you! Cheers ~ Boomer.

[@markwakeley3835]

Love your approach to track laying, especially using small dabs of CA instead of smearing glue all along the cork roadbed. I also like the idea of wiring redundancy, especially around turnouts. So many people try to get track laid quickly to get those trains running but they would be running long before you have to fix something. Like the tortoise, slow and steady is the way to go. Cheers

[@boomerdiorama]

It's a good approach and it pays off in the long run.

[@FredWilbury]

Love the banter when you’re soldering, another great Boomer video for the inspiration book 👌😎☕️

[@boomerdiorama]

Thanks 👍;-)

[@JeffRichBLET129]

I enjoyed the primer on wiring again as I'm electrically challenged. Your visualization of a recognizable main line or switching lead is very important linearly as you stated for visual esthetic as well as prototype modeling. Few modelers understand head space especially on a shelf layout. You have to have some head room or you'll get tired of your layout. Great episode Brother.

[@boomerdiorama]

One of the primary reasons for boredom or people getting tired of their layouts is poor planning and no goals. Furthermore, if you grow tired or bored with the hobby, it's more about you than the actual hobby itself. Cheers.

[@shadowfaxx5]

Thanks! I like how you solder your feeders on....I will have to start doing it that way!! I have troubles with CA glue as well, I end up with itchy eyes and a runny nose for a few days after using it. I use CA only when I absolutely have to and make sure I have a fan blowing the fumes away from me!

[@boomerdiorama]

CA glue is a real challenge sometimes. Wear a mask, that's what I do!

[@donhanley1213]

Track geometry / alignment is one of, if not the most critical element of the hobby. I'm glad to see you emphasize it. Power to the track is right on its heels.

[@boomerdiorama]

. . . and then keeping it clean. ;-)

[@markplacek6657]

One scene at a time one block at a time that's how you build a model rail road you are a genius

[@boomerdiorama]

It took awhile to convince myself of this build method though . . . lol. I failed on several personal layouts before these ones. ;-)

[@Perfusionist01]

60" radius? WOW! Color me impressed. Thanks for the tips. I am a "reasonable" modeler, but HORRIBLE at wiring, so I appreciate any advice. I, also, don't trust the suitcase connectors, but I have had success with Wago connectors. You still trip the wire, but the connector is mechanical and removable, which I find helpful when I mess up my wiring plan. I get them through Amazon.

[@boomerdiorama]

Yes . . . 60" radius curves are fun . . . but not always practical! Cheers.

[@stevenstorey1945]

Boomer, thank you for posting this particular video! I know you have demonstrated wiring track videos in the past, but, at least for myself, this was absolutely the most relevant. Besides showing the importance of a prepared and clean solder joint, it was the simple procedure you used soldering the wire to the track and then just laying the track in place. I have been soldering the wire to the outside of each rail with a couple of ties removed after the track was laid. Then, I replaced the ties. What a difficult mess this has always been. The way you just flip the track over, lay the wire in place, and solder, leaving a nice clean, solid connection, with no melted plastic was great! Wiring track will definitely change from here on!

[@boomerdiorama]

Glad it helped you out. Cheers.

[@HartfordWhaler]

Love the curve. Great turnout work.

[@boomerdiorama]

Thanks 👍

[@danielfantino1714]

Always so plesant to watch your artwork and lissen to your knowledge comments. Pure satisfaction. Thanks so much Boomer. Stay safe😊

[@boomerdiorama]

I'm glad you enjoy it. Cheers.

[@boomerdiorama]

I'm glad you enjoy it. Cheers.

[@Jan-hx9rw]

Burnley soldering flux has to be around for a lot longer than 50 years. I threw out a half a tin of it last summer when it seemed like it wasn't quite doing the job any more, and I was given that tin (just like the one you showed) in January of 74 at my first job repairing electronics. :D I figured after 50 years, it was time to spring for a new tin of it. Gotta keep them in business with those repeat sales, after all.

[@boomerdiorama]

Lol . . . lol . . . Imagine what it was like when things were made to work and last. Oh how I reminisce of the good olé' days. ;-)

[@ironwolfusa]

Awesome track work and I really like the way you lay the track, you can expect perfect geometry every time.

[@boomerdiorama]

It is all about the details. Good track geometry will help you achieve the realism you are looking for. 😎

[@mikedkc]

Your intro was magnificent.

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you. I'm glad you liked it.

[@joesipos2975]

WOW the grade crossing on Duncan Way looks fantastic! I watched that tutorial and it looks even more impressive this time around. CHEERS

[@boomerdiorama]

It is one of my favorite sections of the layout.

[@dwc7325]

Exciting to finally get a glimpse around the bend. 👏✌️

[@boomerdiorama]

Yes. Exciting things around the bend . . . ;-)

[@trainsontuesday]

Great video. Clear and concise advice and well demonstrated. You mentioned "track integrity" as being most important but I always advocate for a solid, well built foundation first. So many layouts shrink, expand and warp and the best laid track is then to no avail.

[@boomerdiorama]

Yes . . . a strong foundation is the most important factor to consider when building a model railroad . . . it's truly the foundation of a successful layout!

[@boomerdiorama]

Yes . . . a strong foundation is the most important factor to consider when building a model railroad . . . it's truly the foundation of a successful layout!

[@spankyfuentes3502]

Thanks!

[@boomerdiorama]

You are awesome! Thank you! Cheers ~ Boomer.

[@mintymoore6054]

A truly brilliant layout

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you. It's a fun project for sure. Cheers!

[@TRUMPPOWERMAN]

You never fail me Mr Boomer, outstanding work and of course, your shelf layout is second to none big buddy . . .

[@boomerdiorama]

Thanks, I appreciate it. 😎

[@DieseldreaminAU]

As I continue to work through the back catalog of your videos, it's really changed my approach as I construct the benchwork for my first layout. I am lucky enough to have done scale and tabletop wargame modelling in my past so not all the techniques are foreign to me, but I feel like you have an almost zen like philosophy with your approach that resonates. I think the quotes you put up on screen would make for a great "Quote of the day" calendar hahaha. As always, great video.

[@boomerdiorama]

The wargame modeling you practiced in the past should serve you well in this model railroad hobby. Have fun, because it's deep and practically inexhaustible. The rewards are also remarkable as well. Cheers ~ Boomer.

[@bobhastings6464]

Hey Boomer Great stuff! Thanks for making these videos. Always enjoyable Cheers Bob

[@boomerdiorama]

My pleasure!

[@frankcerne7613]

Looks fantastic as you were showing the whole layout...thanks for sharing... happy railroading

[@boomerdiorama]

Thanks for watching. Happy railroading to you too!

[@silvertrain7945]

Thank you for continuing the saga of your railroad. I have learned so much from your videos and will soon be starting a phase of my own railroad. I like the approach you take with completing a section then moving on to the next. Like you said, all you have to do is turn your head to get inspired again. Thanks again!

[@boomerdiorama]

I'm glad you enjoy the videos! It's good to have a project to come back to.

[@rogerbivins9144]

I wonder how many modelers have experienced hand building turnouts and can truly appreciate the skilled precision required to produce a smooth running / functioning and trouble free result, using only a printed paper template. I use the turnout / rail tapering jigs made by Fastrax and still manage to foul up occasionally. Some day I will give a printed double crossover a go, but I fully expect that to be a considerable investment in time and stress even having a few dozen jig built L-R turnouts under my belt. Something I must have missed before, I know that you seal the plywood substrate, but I believe here you indicated that you also seal your cork roadbed with a Varthane product prior to track installation?

[@boomerdiorama]

I seal the cork with Varathane to prevent wood glue and ballast from soaking into the cork. I only seal the cork top-side to help the CA anchor the track ties as well when I use CA (super glue).

[@randydobson1863]

Hi Boomer & it's is Randy and i like yours video is Cool & Thanks Boomer & Friends Randy

[@boomerdiorama]

Cheers!

[@davecrosson5018]

Yeah love the long sweeping turnouts, a beautiful thing. After watching how you properly power track using bus wiring, I got underneath and redid all my wiring haha! Much better. My son has just started building an N scale layout and it was the first thing we did to his layout! Do you also do bus wiring for lighting? Keep schooling us, Boomer! We appreciate it :)

[@boomerdiorama]

I use a separate bus for track and accessories.

[@canadianlocomotivelogistics]

4:48 you are so correct Track geometry has a lot to do with things. People don’t spend enough time on work and pay for it later.

[@boomerdiorama]

If the track doesn't satisfy, no scenery will.

[@kelvinbranom10]

Saw you on Second Section Podcast, great explanation and over view and again panorama look at the layout.

[@boomerdiorama]

Thanks, it was fun being on the show. ;-)

[@allenlandis4504]

Thanks again for all the great tips.

[@boomerdiorama]

My pleasure!

[@lottaaction8072]

I marvel at your work, I really do. It may just be a fun hobby to you but I am just in awe. Wow!

[@boomerdiorama]

I do love the hobby. Keeps me out of trouble as well. ;-) I think it all started with an infatuation with miniatures as a kid and the railroad diorama seemed to offer the greatest possibilities to practice the hobby. Cheers. ;-)

[@usssaratogacv3lefevre978]

Lots of great information .

[@boomerdiorama]

This hobby tends to do that to us . . . ;-) Cheers.

[@johnschutt9187]

Always helpful. Thank you.

[@boomerdiorama]

You're welcome! Cheers!

[@ronaldrondeau7870]

thanks boomer great job

[@boomerdiorama]

Any time!

[@SB5SimulationsFerroviairesEEP]

Merci du partage! Stéph.

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you!

[@LourdesReynoso-x7p]

Dam, iam trying to do the same here at my house, in my room and you just make it look so easy 😮

[@boomerdiorama]

Try it! It is one of the most rewarding experiences in this hobby.

[@chrisstromberg6527]

Really enjoying the content! Seriously debating if I want to make the jump to hand laid track!

[@boomerdiorama]

I wouldn't have it any other way. It is one of the most valuable learning curves to achieve in this hobby. It will liberate your track planning as well.

[@jesselomas8626]

Excellent...

[@boomerdiorama]

I'm glad you like it. Cheers.

[@timmueller9586]

Coming right along.

[@boomerdiorama]

Yes. ;-)

[@bernicemeade3232]

Real nice work

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you!

[@stevenlitkey9354]

Nice !! We’re moving down the line. I was holding out hope for a home on section 3 for the little diner. I love that build, but now it’s not looking so promising. I’m sad , . . . . 😢

[@boomerdiorama]

Things can always change on the layout. We'll see what happens. 😄

[@spankyfuentes3502]

Thank you.

[@boomerdiorama]

You're welcome!

[@stevenpryce7808]

The introduction to your video sounds like "I don't like Mondays" by the Boomtown Rats 👍

[@boomerdiorama]

Lol . . . KZbin Studio music. Some of it is not bad. ;-)

[@bncsystemsshortline]

Man I miss watching you!!! I need some inspiration to get back working on the Layout.

[@boomerdiorama]

Have fun and dive in . . . ;-)

[@patstrainsuk1]

Hi I just love watching your videos and yes I am going to have a go at scratch building a crossing gate first You said you not a big fan of soldering have you seen “WAGO” they are electrical joint “clip in joint and removable for faulty finding Ect All the best Pat

[@boomerdiorama]

I don't mind soldering if I'm in the mood. ;-)

[@jensknopfrangiert]

Great job with the turnouts and the radius. I would be so happy, when in the future there is some easy conductive ca-glue and no soldering any more. That person who invents that, must win the chemistry nobel prize. Three questions, please. You glue the cork with wood glue and than treat it with Varathane, right? And what glue you take for the foam? Thanks and have a nice Day.

[@boomerdiorama]

1. Yes. Wood glue for cork to wood. 2. Yes. Varathane top side of cork after laying it down. 3. For foam to foam, or foam to wood, I use PL-300. When I get to the foam part I will cover that. Cheers. ;-)

[@AemJaY]

thas some great soldering! would you mind showing how you attach all those feeders to the bus wire? this would intrest me, because atm iam working with boxes, but when i will install my final electric i might go with a bus cable and soldering. but not really shure how this works.. thnx again for the video great as always!

[@boomerdiorama]

I just strip a section bare and wrap, and solder. You can see it here if you look closely at the bus wire. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iausloF5gcmEec0

[@traiNscale]

@@boomerdiorama thank you for that boomer. maybe i was overthinking the whole thing a bit :D thnx for showing.

[@wilzdart]

Thanks for sharing how you lay track. I plan on starting my lower level track laying so now I have a game plan. I have a question how would you attach a tortoise switch machine to pink or blue foam? Yeah I know he made a mistake but I am helping him.

[@boomerdiorama]

Good luck with attaching switch machines to foam benchwork. You can try adhering a thin 1/8" panel board to the foam and then attach the switch machine.

[@pacificcoastminiatures]

Excellent trackwork! Two questions: I noticed you put the feeders in the middle of the gap you made by removing one of the plastic ties. How are you going to fill in that gap - with a thinner tie? And how do you avoid having ballast fall through the throwbar hole when you ballast later?

[@boomerdiorama]

O.K. Good questions. 1. I usually slip in a sleeper if I can or just fill it with ballast and you will never see it anyway - especially when everything is painted and weathered. 2. I just stuff a piece of tissue paper under the hole from beneath the bench work until things dry. I also paint the hole dark brown first so you will never really notice it.

[@keepamericayisraelgreat5708]

WOW! a lot to take in, especially in this day and age.....Make it yourself, Right?

[@boomerdiorama]

The more you build, the less intimidating it seems.

[@keepamericayisraelgreat5708]

@@boomerdiorama That's like fixing Locomotive, it gets easier.

[@RichsModelingTrains]

Im telling my self to invest in the fast tracks fixtures. Im modeling n scale and I dont want a turn out less than a number 10.

[@boomerdiorama]

No. 10 turnouts look awesome in N Scale when you use code 40 rail. ;-)

[@RichsModelingTrains]

@@boomerdiorama Ok my your pushing my skills.🙂

[@ag4bc]

Another great video. So you do coat the cork with verathane? Just the top side?

[@boomerdiorama]

Yes. I only coat the top side.

[@ag4bc]

@@boomerdiorama Thank you

[@mikesimmons8762]

I'm going to try your methods when I lay my next section of track. What size wire do you use for the feeders? I bought my first bottle of matte medium.

[@boomerdiorama]

I generally use 32 guage wire for feeders.

[@WarrenFahyAuthor]

Cool!!!

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you!

[@LourdesReynoso-x7p]

U are a mofo master in this hobby, omg I wish you can come over to my place and help me start up my shelf layout!!!

[@boomerdiorama]

Build a layout on a bifold "closet" door . . . ;-)

[@Xander6192]

I always wondered with scratch built turnouts, the track bolts are of course missing, compared to say the flex track. Do you add it afterwards, or leave it without the bolt detail as is?

[@boomerdiorama]

I add track bolts (braces) later by details west.

[@ISAACBATENBURG]

Thanks for sharing. What kind of motor do you use for the turnouts?

[@boomerdiorama]

I use "Blue-Point" switch machines. They are manual. I don't care much for electronic switch machines. You can use a push rod for them with no hassle. For the frogs I like to use "frog juicers" or the built in polarity switch that comes with the machine.

[@ISAACBATENBURG]

@ thanks for the tip, I had never heard of these swiches but they look very useful. I am not that font of the electric part of the hobby so I am happy with this suggestion

[@ronhill5118]

You keep coming up with room to build. How long will it be before you cut a hole in the wall to extend into the next room. : )

[@boomerdiorama]

Lol . . .

[@bramelsheretan]

nice, I'll send you an aeroplane ticket, you can come over and rewire my layout, the soldering is terrible

[@boomerdiorama]

I have a really phobia of flying. The fear came after an aviation buddy took me for a ride in a Lear Jet and conducted touch & goes . . . that was it for me . . . lol.

[@canadian-l4q]

second,..i hadda make a java first

[@derz-crackmodellbahnvideosinsp]

"Lol" 😂... Have a nice sunday mate and enjoy the BOOMER upload 😉

[@boomerdiorama]

O.K. 👍😎

[@derz-crackmodellbahnvideosinsp]

FIRST 🫣🤫

[@boomerdiorama]

O.K. Cheers ~ Boomer. 👍😉😁😆

[@Makitaization]

What's the point of a point to point?

[@thisoldgoat3927]

A point-to-point layout focuses on operations rather than just running trains in a loop.

[@boomerdiorama]

Yes indeed. Just like the real world does. I also do point-to point because I focus on "last mile" operations where all the real railroading happens. What makes it even more appealing is the superb quality of model locomotives and roiling stock. The point-to-point model railroad also allows me to run slow and enjoy my investment - and collection. ;-) Cheers and thanks for sharing. ~ Boomer.

[@Makitaization]

@@boomerdiorama I see your point.