Planning an N Scale Layout

[@SilentGloves]

I have the exact opposite problem. My train room is 21'x12' and I'm single with no kids and a six figure income. This has actually paralyzed me from starting for about 6 years. Finally, I realized that, instead of trying to fill this room, I should come up with the smallest possible thing I could build. I decided on a 7'x7.5" shelf layout that represents an interchange, a small switching yard, and a couple of significantly abbreviated industries. It doesn't let me run huge intermodals like I'd like to, but it does give me a platform through which I can fail with very few consequences. The fact that it is merely a stepping stone allows me to let go of the pursuit of perfection that was causing my paralysis. I've actually managed to start building this little shelf layout, so that's definitely progress.

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

No harm in starting small with one section. then another, then another, and before you know it full intermodals are running through your original interchange. you're almost taking a modular approach which is a good way to do it. if you keep building by scene and adding as the inspiration hits, it'll keep you interested. if, through that process you discover a new love of smaller scenes and operations - the intermodals may not carry as much weight for enjoyment.

[@SilentGloves]

@@AlleghenyNorthern Absolutely. I find that personally, with regard to hobbies, I often don't actually know what I want until I start building. I might have one idea of what I'm aiming at, but then through the process, I discover different avenues that are actually more interesting. I really like the idea of setting my layout in the modern day, a week or two before Halloween in Appalachia with peak fall colors. I live in Southern Ohio, and it's just stunning this time of year, plus, that allows for a lot of interesting theming possibilities. I'm always surprised more people don't model fall. But who knows, once I start going that direction, I might get distracted by something else.

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

@@SilentGloves fall isn't difficult to model but snap as many pictures as you can now before the leaves go. usually when i see autumn modeled the colors are so bright, they're not realistic. looking out at the hillsides now, they've turned to a muddled orange/red/yellow general hue - it's not brilliant in color but almost all blends in - especially on these rainy evenings. that's the real autumn and it looks beautiful modeled!

[@aardvarkairsoft1660]

Maybe try building to one of the modular specs. Make a few modules to start a basic loop then build more modules to let you expand

[@toomanyhobbies400]

Thank you for a great video. I started my first small layout to learn landscaping, wiring blocks etc. Then I added on extra length and width to accommodate a larger turn radius. This was all done as a prelude to a larger, permanent layout. One day I realized there simply wasn't room for the future layout I had planned. So with a few modifications to my present "learning layout" I ended up with a layout that was 90% of what I had envisioned, but in a smaller "scale". Because I had done four extensions to the original benchwork I was worried about structural integrity. The solution was to put the layout on its end, install a dozen L brackets at strategic points, and install a proper bus line for the feeders and blocks. My N-scale layout started with 4' x 2.2'. Final size 5.2' x 3.6'.

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

it's amazing how that layout sprawl happens. no matter how much space you have, you'll always need one more foot to get it all in. the nice thing is that n-scale does allow for a lot of material in a little space, so a 5.2x3.6 layout offers quite a bit of action.

[@davec8401]

Thanks for this fantastic video. One of the best for new model railroaders I've seen. I've been building model airplanes for 30 years and have always held an interest in model railroading. I picked up a Kato UP starter set and am building a track plan I made years ago on a 36 x 80 door. I appreciate your candid advice and just 'do it' attitude. There is a train show here in Ogden UT next weekend so I'm hoping to score some good additions to my new layout. Thanks again for your work and dedication to this diverse hobby :)

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

Solid start with the Kato set. Those are great runners! Train shows are always exciting because you never know what you'll find. Keep your ear to the ground and if you hear of an n-scale specific show, you're not going to want to miss that. there's something to be said for knowing everything at the show is going to be in scale for what you want. 36"x80" is a nice starting size - you'll be able to get a lot accomplished - and it's just large enough to allow the train to stretch out a bit.

[@davidf9630]

Thanks for your help. I’m getting ready to start on a 6’x11’ ( 36”deep) L shaped Nscale layout. I keep thinking about an overpass or tunnel. But I really just want to run trains. So far I’m thinking lumber industry, a city/town area , a sandlot baseball field and some fuel stations.

[@rogerrendzak8055]

Very realistic, and very beautiful!!! I had a small N-scale layout, close to 50 years ago, when I was a little boy. Love all the little details, and the differences in season's. On the winter scene, the deciduous trees would of lost all their leaves, by the time it would snow, and trees should have, a starker look. N-scale is great, for the space factor, also☺️.

[@user-spacrazie]

Excellent video! I’m extremely interested in starting my own train layout. I’m retiring soon and want to make this my hobby as I’ve always wanted a train set since I was a child and now I’m not concerned about spending some money 😁. You have made me feel like I don’t have to have perfection right off the bat (something that always holds me back). I am going to attend a local model train show soon and visit a local model train store. I like your comment on purchasing the locomotive and not necessarily purchasing a whole starter set. Again, I appreciate all your tips and comments.

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

welcome to the hobby! you've come to the right place to spend money, LOL! the hobby shop is going to have brand new things to get you started, and just about everything you'll need. The train show will be the place to find the deals - but i've noticed more and more the shows are just hobby shops and people selling at hobby shop prices - so it's good to know what you're holding and haggle a little. if you buy a loco from the train show, make sure they have a test track and test it! if they don't have a test track, that could be a risky buy if you get a loco - especially if it's used.

[@user-spacrazie]

@@AlleghenyNorthern Thank you for the tips! 👍🏼

[@patterrana1581]

What you touched on is why I sold all my larger N locomotives and rolling stock, I'm going to model the class 1 in Z scale, just a simple double track loop for watching trains run. My other 3 layouts will be small operation layouts in 1920's, 60's, and 2000's.

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

I've often thought about messing with Z scale for some fun. it looks like the equipment has come a long way - it seems to run pretty well. you're going to get an awesome train-to-scenery ratio - even in a small scale!

[@tommynorwood5184]

Hi C Mastracci , I watch a lot of KZbin channels on model train layouts . You can get a lot of helpful tips and information to apply to your layout. But I will say that I get the most information and the truth about modeling from your channel. So keep doing what you do. When I designed my layout i new the era i wanted, but not the design. That took some time and a lot of changes. I have a small layout 4’ by 7 and half feet. I would like to have a larger layout but I’m happy with what I got. I started out with a double main twice around. I settled for a main line and a branch line. I have a small yard and my industry’s on the inside of the branch with access to the main. My era is in the 80s when N & W and Southern were merging. So you no my choice of locomotives. But the hardest thing is getting rolling stock making sure you don’t get newer cars and locomotives. Happy modeling. Thanks for sharing. Have a good week. And I like the music at the start of the video’s. 😎😎👍

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

Glad you're enjoying. I like the subject of your layout, too - lot of options for modeling. 4x7 is a nice space for n scale - it's a layout you could conceivably finish in a lifetime. Being happy with it is the most important thing - the hobby is for enjoyment and if you're not enjoying it then it's just another job! Have a great week!

[@KatoUSAinc]

Fantastic scenery, super big fan of the variety of color throughout the layout

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

Thanks for watching - I use a lot of your products as I'm sure you saw. The big boy with sound is an absolute masterpiece.

[@billbrett365]

Deciding what you want to do is half the battle; true. We're limited to what's available too. Thanks for the video.

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

we, in n scale, are definitely limited to what's available - however, with the advent of 3D printing - i think our hobby has changed forever. if someone doesn't make it - you make it yourself. i'm thinking that's the next major step for me.

[@kcgrailgilbert8466]

​@@AlleghenyNorthernlike those tank trains

[@kcgrailgilbert8466]

​@@AlleghenyNorthernis that ur n scale layout

[@jefwisse1957]

In my case money is the limiting factor 😂😂😂.

[@Shelvington_Railway]

Excellent video. Some very wise words too. Thanks for sharing. Liked and Subbed! Cheers, Andy

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

Glad you enjoyed; welcome aboard!

[@mikehowey4869]

That's how I started with a 4x8 layout in my bedroom when I was about 9 years old.I gradually became better at modeling.I still am not a master at this and have weak points but I'm further along.

[@jefwisse1957]

As long as you enjoy working on your layout you will be happy. Have a nice and healthy 2024.

[@louadipietro9040]

Great advice, simple and to the point. Thanks. Heard you mention you use sectional tracks.. wondering what kind of track you’re using?

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

Indeed. The layout is Kato Unitrack and the flex track segments are Kato's flex track.

[@Eric5ohhh]

Funny, I relate to your situation completely. I’m 29 and always loved trains. When I was around 10 years old I had a bunk bed in my room but instead of a bed on the ground level it an old Lionel set on a piece of ply wood, and then later on I had a Bachman n scale starter set that I had made some scenery on a board but I can’t really remember why it never progressed from there, maybe I grew out of it temporarily. Fast forward to now when I’m 29 I want to take it seriously as an adult, I live in a basement on Long Island where I don’t have the luxury of space like I did in FL where I grew up. I have a 10x11 room for sleeping a 10x11 room for storage so I’m building a table slightly smaller than 4x8 feet and I definitely understand what you mean when you need to realize there’s things you want to do that just won’t be possible and also it becomes a skill to be able to learn what’s possible and what’s not. But regardless I’m excited to take it seriously as an adult, I have two Kato locomotives and some rolling stock. I just want to have two tracks with some switches and some scenery and be able to run two decent trains at once. Doesn’t sound too hard to do I’d say

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

So the bunk bed with a layout on the lower level is actually a great space saver! so for those of you out of space, take note! N scale is a good scale for tight spaces - you should be able to fit enough operation into that size layout to keep you interested and develop skills until space allows for more. when you build your layout, consider leaving yourself a line to connect it to a future expansion.

[@frankkie3849]

Nicely done,,thanks for sharing,,😊

[@Theonetheonlymichael]

I have a one meter wide n scale layout and I am super happy with it so I don’t really need a big one

[@mikefisher2673]

I build my first layout when I was 13 in 1976 using the Atlas layout book. Learned alot, but never built another layout again. In the mid 90s though the early 2000 built up a nice collection, but had know space for a layout. The nearest club is around 50 miles away in Point Richmond California.

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

50 miles is a long run to get to a club location. i would imagine rural mid-westerners probably have the same issue with a general lack of clubs and distance between locations. That is fortunately not an east-coast problem - we have clubs everywhere. that said, small layouts that can be slipped under a bed when not in use and put on a coffee table when being used would be an option for lack of space. Modules that could be stored in a garage or closet and set up outside in a driveway during nice weather would be another option to break out the collection.

[@mikefisher2673]

@@AlleghenyNorthern Like alot of people now we have limited space and if I still had a large enough home I be able to create something. Like you I have alot of those 80 footers, but box cars. I picked up a number of SF at a train show and like you said they would look funny on a small railroad. There cool, but I would never run them them unless on a long straight away.

[@tomcook5813]

I like segmented rail for the realism, I grew up on a segment line in South New Jersey, that line is still making that clickety clack sound. 😊

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

running metal wheel sets on the layout does give that clickety clack sound on the models, too LOL. I see a future series of cars being installed with small micro decoders that play that sound along with wheel squeal and air brakes - plus that low din of metal rolling heavily on metal. would have to be a small decoder though - too many decoders and all of our layouts are going to need booster upgrades!

[@elleryparsons2433]

The true Key is This Work it Slowly Pride ,passion Is the Way To Go Never Rush What your Doing there Is No Done Date NO layout is Done By Any Means No Matter What Scale your Modeling.

[@angelmoratroncoso9431]

Hello friend, great video. I think what you say is very effective. There are people who live looking at what others have done and make no progress. Tell me, how did you solve the curve and countercurve on the Kato banked road? I have not achieved it yet and I think I will have to modify that area because long locomotives derail. Thanks for sharing.

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

Sounds like you're not using the approach tracks. They make tracks that go from level track to super elevated and if you're not using those - the rails won't line up correctly and will derail your locos and rolling stock. They're product numbers R315/282 and R414/381-22.5 L/R. Purchase those and check them out. You'll see that one side has the track at standard Unitrack heights and one has the start of the super elevated curve.

[@angelmoratroncoso9431]

Thank for you response... Great... I dont know that.... I will try it

[@cranerigging3604]

Thank you and AMEN at 10:15 ! 😬👍

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

best way to go.... wing it!

[@cranerigging3604]

@@AlleghenyNorthern Right on !

[@BillRen-nl5mx]

Honestly I wasnt expecting your life story but a genuine explanation or layouts Like how things work ie the double slips you have there, loops figure eights, some idesas but bnot a vacuous lecture of nothing in particular

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

honestly then, i would have expected you to read the title of the video and the description of what the video was about and realize that planning a layout and building a layout are not the same topic.

[@ronnyvonallmen6892]

My first “Layout” was my HO Santa Fe F Diesel loop with my Airfix Union and Confederate soldiers set up on my Grass Mat…I made split rail fencing from twigs…I thought it was the greatest thing ever, until our Cub Scout Leader told me they didn’t have Santa Fe Diesels during the Civil War…I was Crushed….

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

i suppose that was quite the anachronism... BUT what would history look like if they did have diesel engines???

[@ronnyvonallmen6892]

@@AlleghenyNorthern James J Andrews may have gotten away, and the War may have ended sooner due to Supply Interruptions…

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

@@ronnyvonallmen6892 sounds like you're on to a good concept for a modular railroad... maybe one where you can switch out timelines... could be a new concept!

[@Kparc1212]

Can you use a 27 transformer with a N-gauge train?

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

N scale trains run on a max of 12v, about 3 amps. If your transformer puts out power in that range you won't fry anything although I'm not familiar with what you're using.

[@Kparc1212]

@ thanks so much! I’ll check the transformers.

[@deweyhall712]

The hobo union approves of this video, and will be setting up a hobo camp at a layout near you.😊😊

[@KatoOnTheTrack1]

😂😂

[@elleryparsons2433]

Sectional Tracks Are The Way to start Then If you want You can Run Flextrack. Don’t Rush it Be Passionate and Love What your Doing. Little by Little.

[@jefwisse1957]

You can call my building skills very poorly and that's the ugly truth. I will never be able to create a miniature World that will look amazing but I'm happy with it because my main goal is to enjoy myself working on my model railroad and as long I'm enjoying myself I'm happy. Have a nice and fortunately 2024 Sorry for my poor English. Greetings from the Netherlands.

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

being happy in the hobby is most important. your layout doesn't look bad - i think you're being a bit hard on yourself. every time you do something, you get a little better at it. don't feel bad if you need to modify or redo a scene. i've redone a few multiple times!

[@jefwisse1957]

@@AlleghenyNorthern I agree, having fun building on the layout is certainly the most important.

[@scooterinvegas1]

Excellent video!

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

Thanks!

[@BigBushWookie]

Y’all’s are starting off with 4x8? I’m starting off with a 3x5

[@jefwisse1957]

That's about the size I started with as well. Now after 25 years of building it got a little bigger thanks to my daughter who was kind enough to leave home and made her room available to me 😂😂😂. Have great fun in 2024 with your modeling. Greetings from a Dutch modeler.

[@hansvandermeij3467]

Love this video

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

thanks!

[@lamegaming9835]

are foreign (feischmann, lemke, minitrix etc) trains common at train shows?

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

Not really. Larger conventions may have some but if you're looking for European models your best bet is online.

[@porky552]

When are we going to get RC engines and ditch dc?

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

since DCC is already wireless with walk around throttles i'd say most serious modelers ditched DC about 7-10 years ago. still an OK place to start but digital control is where the real operation comes from. pure RC from the standpoint of a multi-function hand controller and battery operated locos would be a step backward to what DCC can do, in my opinion.

[@Abrahams_stuff]

6:40 what station platform is that?

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

that's Kato's Island platform.

[@KING-LEO]

Set my bar high so even if i fall short i have done well.

[@GreatBowlsAfire]

Awesome ❤👍☕

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

Thanks!

[@safetyfirst300]

Would you like to try something different with Model Railroader? Found this layout online, you can operate the locomotive on the guys layout real time. So go to his KZbin channel and start the live stream video. kzbin.info9eASlc9to2Q?si=2gGorysQo-fyhO_N then open up the description. There’s a link there to operate a locomotive on his Layout.

[@cbirailroad]

I have to respectfully disagree with your premise at the beginning about space. Bigger can be better, but space limitations, even in n scale, affect most of us to varying degrees. So a full size layout, such as yours, which allows us to run long trains pulled by 6-wheel axle SDs and E44s just isn't in the cards - ever. My 1.5 car unheated garage, for example, plays host to both my n scale layout and my Miata. As a result, most of the turns are 15" radius or less. I employ mostly GP38s and GP40s (and their variants) plus a couple of light Mikados for steam excursions. I'll never have a room-sized layout, but I realize that many also make do with much smaller pikes. Remember the lemonade analogy and just have fun. Ron

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

that's exactly why i mention in the video that if long modern trains are your thing but you don't have the space - you can join a club where you can run the your collection of long trains, utilizing a small home layout to hone your modeling skills in the meantime. most folks try to cram large locos on small layouts and it just doesn't work. the hobby needs to fill your desires otherwise, interest wanes and then everything ends up in an attic box.

[@jefwisse1957]

The most important factor is having fun building your layout. Have a great 2024. Greetings from a Dutch modeler.

[@intermodalman123]

Hey would you be interested in selling your CSX MP15 by any chance? I'd be willing to offer a generous sum for it

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

Sorry, but that isn't one i'm willing to part with.

[@user-qr7ee2cp4y]

Try getting a software like trainz where you can design and run your layout on your computer and goof with it until you get something you like... then build it

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

this is a great option - especially for someone who has trouble visualizing their drawings. being able to 'play' with the layout first helps find problems before they're glued to a board.

[@OldcampRanch]

Layouts are diverse as the people who build them, there’s no right way or wrong way to build one.

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

Layouts can be built at various skill sets and can have various levels of detail, operational styles, etc. but they can absolutely be built wrong. I have three in my own past that were built wrong - they didn't do what i wanted, and didn't operate correctly.

[@elleryparsons2433]

Watching KZbin And Watching train Videos or goin to Train shows Or Goin to A Trainshop. Got To that indulge what you want to do. Do your Homework Before you start then Go from There on Out.

[@elleryparsons2433]

When We Want to Model Railroad we Run What We Want or Sees Fit.

[@elleryparsons2433]

I Did Not use A Computer to Build A layout And It Looks Good.

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

i didn't use a computer either and that wouldn't have been a problem accept the multiple phases could have been better coordinated on my part.

[@elleryparsons2433]

I Am Running 5- 10 Cars Per Train Don’t want to Burn Out the Engines Out.

[@AlleghenyNorthern]

shouldn't burn a motor out unless you really abuse it but wearing out wheels is very real. i would recommend traction tires to help prevent that. Bullfrog Snot is what i use for traction.

[@elleryparsons2433]

When We Build For Me Build The Table Then Then go From there on Out.

[@robertwright3470]

Sht your just spending too much