The New O Gauge Layout Has Landed!

The new Lionel and MTH O gauge/scale layout has landed! New lights, shelves, curtains, and most importantly the layout itself has been installed!
We’re heading to the TCA York Train Show next week! Make sure to come say hi if you see me!

[@johnandrus3901]

Nice video, Zack. It was nice meeting and chatting with you for a few minutes at York. The new layout is coming along nicely. As far as a lift-out or hinged bridge, I would go with one that is no more than two feet in length. It would be a lot lighter and give plenty of room to get through. On the O Gauge Railroading Magazine site, they have a nice video on how to make a bridge like that. As far as your windows go, I don't understand why anyone would think that they should be covered up. Natural light is the best. I have a deep basement, nine feet from the floor to the top of the joists. It has big windows, but they are only on one side, so the room is nicely lit for only half of the day. I ran a string of construction lights, with ten 100 watt LED's around the ceiling, so the room is quite well lit, when I need it to be. I like the way that you mapped-out your track plan on the floor. It lets you get things just right, before building the platforms. Building a layout can be frustrating and rewarding. I'm staging my new layout as we speak, so there won't be any surprises later on. It's one Hell of a process, but so worth it in the end. Once again, an excellent video, as always.

[@flashrocket9158]

16:40 one thought I have would be to have a turnout on one of the tracks just before the tunnel and could serve as a branchline. and at the end of the table, you could have a staging yard and a turntable for your engines. This will make for a unique dynamic for train operation.

[@johnconway2549]

It looks like a great start for a new layout. I wish you a lot of luck and enjoyment building your new layout. 👍🚂

[@tomrogers5516]

The bridges to span the entry would add a great look the layout, but you'll want to figure out a way to connect them so you can lift them up at the same time. 3 individual bridges would be quite a pain to have to lift every time you wanted access. Of course, the weight aspect has to be considered. I like your plan to locate the control centre on the shelving under the 2nd layout near the centre of the room. Makes sense. You've made a lot progress so far and carpentry skills look great...sturdy and tough.

[@ArtsModelTrains]

That is great progress and I like that you brought the layouts together. That lighting really makes a difference! Really looking forward to seeing it come together. I missed getting to see you at York so hopefully you'll be back in Oct!

[@NSModelRailRoading]

Hey I enjoy your videos a lot and appreciate that you share resources for bridges, shelves, buildings etc. I agree 100% on the windows. No windows is depressing, even for a joyful place such as a train room. Keep up the good work!

[@kennymcgowan2880]

Hey Country bunker Trains, loving the new layout train table, gives it more space and room to breathe😊😊

[@user-gz6tn4bj2m]

You have always given Inspiration to build scratch, build building scenery. I'm getting smarter. I have a limited amount of locomotives, but I make it work. But thank you for the enjoyment. Love country, bunker trains.

[@dagryffynhobby]

Looking good. Control center where it’s easy and convenient. If you stand in that spot, I say put it there. Bridges: not sure, a heavy plywood section doesn’t seem like the best solution. Maybe individual bridges. But o would have to really be there to see to give a better recommendation. Looking forward to more. Hope to see you at York.

[@CountryBunkersTrains]

Thanks man! Look forward to meeting up with you as well! Talking with Nick the other day, sounds like Friday might be best bet. Let the festivities begin!

[@johnhartz21779]

Looks great! I'm jealous! I would go with the bridges across. I was going to do that with ours. Even just a temporary board across till you get the nice bridges.

[@RedMond-jc1rf]

As far as the 'bridges' question goes. Your concern is weight of the span of connection. You are right but what if you put three narrow spans for the track and connected filler boards between them so when you lifted the span they would all lift at the same time but wouldn't be so heavy. Just a thought. BTW, been a watcher for a looooooooong time, THANK YOU for all you do. Stay well.

[@marcsoscaletrains]

You'll certainly love the around the wall design. Started my new layout and did the same. I'm thinking of doing a new video soon on it. It's been a while since my last upload.

[@Robs3railtrains]

Have a wood hinge section that lifts up. Add counterweights under the table to offset the weight of the table. Looks great

[@user-op1su2by5v]

Now you are not going to be able to get out the sliding door brother, but great job at joining the layouts together.

[@cncpgreatlakesdiv4896]

looks awesome thanks for sharing.😊😊👍👍

[@Jokers_Trains]

I like this look. Look forward to future videos to see what you come up with.

[@CountryBunkersTrains]

Thanks man!

[@carlmiles8655]

Hello Zak great progress IMHO either girder or truss bridges that you can lift out or put on hinges would work just fine they would make your new layout look much nicer than just laying a piece of particle board across I just finished re modeling my train room me and Jenny re painted the room a pastel Amtrak grey She bought see two kitchen base cabinets we bought 22 inch wood dollies from harbor freight for under the cabinets and then I rebuilt the benchwork my layout is N scale all kato Amtrak I can fit all eleven of my Amtrak's on it its all uni track it is 44 inches wide by 12 ft long dual mainline with four passing sidings and 8 long spurs still have some work to do but I'm not in a rush to do it THANKS FOR SHARING ZAK GOD BLESS AND SALUTE ;)

[@105C09]

Great benchwork!

[@dantiel4179]

What I did on my layout for the bridge was a single pin and hole at each end the bridge and lift it straight up this way the track is cut close and straight for the pin I used screw with a small plastic boot over it so far it has lasted 5 years have a good week Zack

[@daivdwalker2374]

I'm glad you decided to combine the 2 layouts that will be a Awesome layout and can now easily run 50 car trains lol Awesome Job Zach

[@105C09]

PS: Consider a security camera and theft deterent system. It seems your collection would be an easy mark, Zach.

[@barrymilam9665]

If I were to be at a train show, how would I know who you are, I haven't ever seen your face. You could always put a picture of yourself in the train room....haha. Also I like the idea of a a piece plywood on hinges running across the entrance of your layout. I'm not sure if your ceiling is too low to span the distance. I also like that fact that you have windows and all the natural light. Hope everything comes together just the way you want and more. I looked to see if I could find you on Facebook, but I didn't see you there.

[@johnh.toytrainfanatic5300]

Great progress on the new layout. Hopefully you have time to stop by Lower Susquehanna Valley Modular Club when you are in York next week , open houses at the club starting Wednesday through Saturday

[@CountryBunkersTrains]

Thanks!! Have to see if we can make it out there, sounds like a lot of fun!

[@Crash_ton]

Hey Zac (or Zach, Zak lol. Which is it). If I were you, I would put three separate bridges to span the gap. I would allow some more customizable from each one. That is the way my brain works. Thanks for videos and see ya...

[@bigdaddydiecast3529]

Looking good! Gonna be awesome layout!

[@gmaneis]

Wow! You sure are having a lot of fun, Zack. Thanks for sharing. JMHO on the gap thing. If you can, build out both sides so your lift bridge is, at most, 2.5 feet long, so it can accommodate human bodies when lifted, and so it won't be very heavy. Thanks again for showing off your great train room!🙂

[@obvious2886]

I like the idea of the 3 girder bridges but I feel like one section to lift up is way easier than lifting up 3 separate sections. Maybe connect the 3 bridges with barely visible metal rods so they are lighter than a big board but lift all as one

[@CountryBunkersTrains]

Yea, I have the same type of feeling too. Idk, I’ll have to play with it

[@rpscsx]

The new layout is looking awesome sir. Do you have enough room for a swing gate for the layout. A swing gate with a couple casters wheels and a hinge would probably work out best for you. You can just roll it out if the way and you don't have to lift it. One cool thing I think you would like is take the outer loop on the second layout and connect it to the new layout. I know how much you like long train and man can you imagine a long weather freight train. Well sir good luck with the layout and I look forward to the next update.

[@brianobier9210]

I'm going to be at York show on Saturday I enjoy your videos and new layout hopefully I will be able to meet you

[@arranshea9421]

Man on a mission… From God??? Alrighty there Jake “Joliet” Blues…. 😂😂😂😂

[@arranshea9421]

Also go for the three individual bridges.

[@CountryBunkersTrains]

😂🤣 thanks!

[@mikejobellafatto9659]

Zack, I have been watching your videos 20:10 for a while. I would make three individual lift out drop in bridge sections. I would have the sections setup with alignment pins so taking them in and out would be a breeze. Plus make extension arms to store the sections. I have some similar situations on my own layout. Me being a metal fabricator I would use aluminum channel for the bridge support sections. Let me know if you need more detail information. Mike, long Island, NY.

[@huntercoleman460]

Looks good so far Zach.

[@msalas0101]

Can’t wait to see what you do with the new layout.

[@user-op1su2by5v]

The led strip lighting I said about in the last video Zach for you to get, you can buy eather the ones that change color with music or the ones that do not use music and you can set them to change colors or change the colors your self on the remote.

[@actorprosvintagetrains7217]

Awesome jobs

[@johnmalmgren4604]

The greenery coming in from your windows is awesome, having had two layouts in train rooms (no basements here in California) with windows looking out to my wife's garden and the other looking down a neighborhood street. The effect adds so much to the layout, enjoy yourself in the development of your new layout!

[@N_scale]

Zack What I would do in this space. Strip down the second layout. Make the benchwork match. And have it all bare benchwork that you integrate together for a longer mainline. (Vs an add on) I am not suggesting less mainlines I’m suggesting they go around the whole room vs half each. Any scenes on the second layout you like can be reintegrated. But this is your opportunity to fix it to be an AWESOME layout. I really like the changes you’ve made. Great decision. This could allow where the 2 chairs are parked to be narrower because it would be a straight mainline going past there vs a required turn around loop. The goal is to have friends over. The more isle the better. I cut 24” off my island on my n scale 15x20 double deck layout to let my friends pass with 36” Instead of a 18” pass by with only 1 guy. I might even remove more or the whole island to allow my friends to come over and we can “breathe” in the double deck train room. It depends what you want . What radius is your widest loop? That would determine if you can eliminate the bridge fold down and instead do a balloon loop on one side. On my o gauge it is 12x14 feet and you stand in the middle of it and it is essentially 4 mainlines. No grade. It is to simulate northeast corridor and I run gg1s and ep5s. It is pure fun to run 4 o gauge locos. I can’t see the door you walk into the room. Could also make that the flip up benchwork, going around entire room. Giant square in middle. Tyler

[@musicman8942]

Good idea on integrating the 2 layouts. Otherwise it's not really all that different than the original 1st layout and the 2nd layout concept.

[@N_scale]

@@musicman8942 well total bottle neck at stools. I wouldn’t want the balloon to be right when I walk in or to get past another operator at the door. Currently constructing layout 14

[@musicman8942]

@@N_scale To tell the truth I don't think Zack has really thought this through. I know he did things by laying out the track on the floor but there's something to be said for using a computer to do the layout. It will help better help with seeing what would really work in the space allowed. That's the way I did my last and current HO layout. Helped in mapping out with the doors and movable sections. It would also keep one out of trouble in track alignment and what will fit where.

[@N_scale]

@@musicman8942 I got no issue with the real life track setup I do the same with Kato track and menards But if you’re going to completely scrub down a room, why not do the whole room.

[@musicman8942]

@@N_scale exactly right to do the whole room

[@jakeclark6305]

Great job Zac! Looking forward to seeing it progress and be done. Keep the windows! Where did the Caravelle go?…

[@nscaledivision2336]

awesome update and I can't wait to see what you got next part

[@MrStevesTrains]

You should tint your windows to prevent UV Rays fading the color out of your accessories

[@Tonyfishtail]

3 bridges would look awesome!! Command center under that 2nd layout where you always stand would be the best spot in my opinion. The benchwork looks great! Bravo my friend!!😊

[@charlesmcclure5994]

Be interesting to see how it all comes out, have fun at York it's definitely on my bucket list to get there someday 👍👍

[@ELWtrains]

Layout coming together nice easy access nice frame work 👍 I think 3 bridges would be sweet ,and not so heavy , I think with the windows open give great views of outside I think it looks good , I have mine in my attic,room , upstairs only thing with mine is sun doing videos. Yours looks great my friend doing a great job Thanks for update 👍 🥃🥃

[@stevencilento3364]

Hi Zach, love the new layout table. Great job! Hope to see you in York.

[@craigstrains55]

New layout is going to be awesome and three bridges would look great! Thanks for the great videos and maybe we will run into one another at York.

[@davidkoehler136]

have fun at York

[@elleryparsons2433]

When You have a Wild Hair Driving You crazy you’re Gonna Move.

[@edwardcurtis9552]

Down with the sickness looks really great man !!! "CHEERS" l went with the wood bridge part of the layout love it !! I'm working on pulley and counterweight.. happy railroading !!!!!!!!!!

[@brettmariotte3343]

I look forward to watching the progress. Please keep us posted.

[@jrhproductions54]

Love the progress so fall

[@user-pc4ov2tg1e]

Why not bring part of the layout in to have a smaller opening that would make it easier to manipulate the smaller bridge. Paint the room Bluetooth match the garage doors. Regards Nigel 25:12 😊 25:12

[@thomasking4136]

Thoughts. Keep your control panel/center where you will be most of the time. At all costs, avoid having to crawl under track(s) trestles etc. One large pivoting piece as you mentioned would be heavy. Have smaller sections of trestle/bridge pivot(s). Concur with windows/glass. Lee malone. Leave the moon light. That is seriously unique and cool. Have fun at York. Wish I could be there. Would enjoy meeting you. Must say, I have thoroughly enjoyed the progression from the beginning till now.

[@kensobocinski700]

Go with separate bridges. I think that would look great.

[@erictrainman]

Dude this layout looks awesome!

[@CountryBunkersTrains]

Thank you sir! Can’t wait to see your new setup!

[@chrisricciardi1566]

I agree...trial and error is the way to go for track laying...great job!

[@EricSmith-ve7qi]

Looks Great Zak! Very Nice Work!! I would use a Nice double track bridge and then a single simple bridge like you said in video. I think bridges would look great there! Good Luck can't wait for next video......

[@JohnGarrigan]

Hi, your layout is looking great. Having three bridges would be a challenge, I always like being challenged . Good luck. John

[@Cbtrainnut]

Now my wife says to plant real trees outside each window to make it real scenery lol!

[@user-hm5wz7ii6z]

hey zack i like the idea of your placement of the control system next to the 1st layout on my layout i have the power at the far end so i can spot anything. I would suggest some mirrors in the corners help it look bigger than it really is, enjoy the york show i cant make the show but i will be at octobers show, check out just trains of delaware.

[@Coreyt1976]

This looks great Zac. I had a feeling that you would connect the two layouts. As for the lift area, I like the idea of one piece of board to lift up. That’s what I’m doing with my layout. lol at the people saying to cover the windows. I wish I had more than my one window. Natural light is awesome. Looking forward to seeing more.

[@heatherk7244]

It's looking great bruh!

[@ferrark1]

So far so good looks interesting looking forward to your progress Zack !

[@MarkWick]

Here is my thought on "Bridging" that gap. Instead of crossing the whole area with bridges or a large hinged section of board, either add a hinged section of table top to the side at the inside wall that spans about half the gap, then complete the crossing with bridges, or add some hinged sections of layout to both sides, then put bridges across the center. I like that you kept the windows. My current train room, though small, has a window across about 90 percent of the East wall, and the North side is all window except the corner with the door. On warm days the door is open. I would prefer the windows on the West and South, but I am working with the building as built. I am working on expanding the a parent size of the layout by adding scenery details to the walls. Like you, have trees and other natural scenery outside the windows.

[@dennis2494]

I agree with your decision about the windows, it's nice to look outside because it makes it look like a larger space, however you might want to add some tint film to the window glass if too much sunlight comes in , I live in FL too and the sun bleaches the white vertical blinds and the carpets near or on the windows but being able to look out at your yard is a plus in my opinion

[@johnnieblaze8983]

3 bridges would look amazing

[@ericwilliams2619]

Your layout is coming along nicely 👍🏻💫💫💫💫💫 I really enjoy your videos

[@brianbaird3]

As long as i see our local FEC i would be content. It's your layout make it how you want it. Love the video's

[@katherinemorey6517]

Hi Zach, I'm just thinking that you should put an arch bridge or big truss bridge with 3 tracks on it. A board would be so boring. Cory Mears

[@joegennari395]

Great video!!! Lots of Hard work, thanks for the update!!

[@VintageRenewed]

Something you could do for the bridge section is to start with a full board but then in the middle of it you remove the wood where there is no track Basically have the ends of the board a solid piece but in the middle it looks like three seperate tracks/bridges. Still giving you some of the structural benefit of a solid piece but the look of three different bridges

[@buecomet831]

Honestly, expanding the layout I see. Best idea. honestly.

[@SleeperBBQ]

very nice and connecting the two layouts, winning. My 2 cents, girder bridges would be best and most realistic. All the windows make the room feel larger more open even. When the ship comes in have a battery-operated G scale running across the windows and slider that would look pretty cool from the inside looking out

[@johnlongssilverrailz5873]

I have been very happy with the light weight lift out section which I have on my large layout which I have demonstrated several times on past videos on my channel. It works great and has held up to the test of time.

[@joeystrains.9316]

Looks good Zach. I like truss bridges but they can be pricey. Looking forward to trains running.

[@user-op1su2by5v]

Get a hold of Eric trains , he has a couple lift Bridges he can help you out brother on how to build them, and I remember watching a video on how to make those life Bridges they are great to have and to have three separate ones is a good idea.

[@Ruggedrails]

Hi Zac 3 years ago I subscribed and back then I was just getting back into the hobby down here in the land of Australia I really felt like everything was great watching you run trains and joking around with us But in recent times I’ve looked at all my subscriptions and I deleted a few that came across that it was all about buying new stuff that there subscribers had paid for . I think that was my reason I unsubscribed from not only you but a few others also . It’s a fine line I know but that was my reason I just saw this post and decided to check out your channel again Good luck with your journey mate 🤝🥂

[@CountryBunkersTrains]

I get that feeling too. Most videos seem to be unboxing of new items purchased. It’s fun, but after a while gets a lil tiresome.. I can’t keep up with the Jones’s 😂

[@nascarhyde]

Hi Zach, I think you should put your control center at the spot you said you stand the most(between the two layouts), seems a natural spot for you as you said. Good luck! Paul from Michigan!

[@walteranderson5090]

Nice. Looking forward to the progression.

[@ganrailroad]

Train layouts will be at York they have a lot of bridges with lift hinges, they are in the orange hall. If i see you at York I will say hi.

[@garyruark9506]

Girder bridges for sure. The controls: the transformers can be out of the way because with MTH and Lionel command control systems you set them and forget and use the remotes to run trains and can operate accessories and switches. Switch controls if not on the remote need to be accessible. However, I really don't like switches. I have them but find I don't use them much. Have fun in York! Like a kid in a Candy store.

[@jeffheins6624]

Instead of particlboard, consider 1 1/2 pink foam covered with 1/8 underlayment ply. Lots of rigidity and much less weight

[@williamklingenberg108]

Like how you are always improving your layout. Keep up the good work

[@gusshadleythelunaticfromar7125]

You going to York. Look out for you.

[@GlennFresch]

Congratulations on finally going around the whole room. It was inevitable!

[@CountryBunkersTrains]

😂🤣 thanks!

[@elleryparsons2433]

I Am Old School Model Railroader And Proud of It.

[@texaseagletrains]

Will you connect the track to the other half? It would be cool to have a train be able to traverse the whole layout.

[@davidbroad4834]

Good to go!

[@gilbertosonera]

Zack can you do a video on when you do the wiring on the layout ? Would like to see how you do it .

[@CountryBunkersTrains]

Absolutely! Can try to include that in the future. Thanks!

[@Glenn_Mead]

Looking good sir! The only thing I worry about with open windows is sun damage

[@peterg321]

Hi CBT, great progress on the new layout area! What are the lower rails attached to the legs for? Shelving or simply spacing for the legs? I find a simple L bracket and a screw through the carpet is best. Doesn't damage the carpet, so much stronger and allows better access for storage. Cheers Pete from Sydney, Australia

[@NilsvN_]

Hey Zack how you been, looking forward to see the progress :)

[@daivdwalker2374]

Could do a swing out bridge on a long hinge with a castor wheel on the bottom so when you push the bridge out of the way it will roll on the caster wheel that would be cool too

[@elleryparsons2433]

Your Layout is Looking Good I’m Sure The Addition is Gonna Look Ad Well Sorry I was Workin.

[@billhawkins9261]

I would use Bridges. It would definitely make it easier to get underneath the layout🎉

[@northpennvalleysteamrailroad]

Looking good!!!

[@christopherholliday1567]

What about a bridge like they have in Missouri that swings open. Just a though my friend.

[@elleryparsons2433]

Go For It you Can do it one Board for The 3 Lines.

[@randydobson1863]

hello Zach & it's is Randy and i like yours Video is cool & Thanks Zach & Friends Randy & Good Work Zach On The O Gauge On Yours Layout Thanks Zack & The Best a Luck With u O Gauge Layout Thanks Friends Randy

[@billharvey9836]

I've subscribed to your channel your new layout looks great

[@railramsay9025]

Hey so why not a bridge that is hinged on both sides so it's split in the middle? Maybe have a locking bolt in the middle so it doesn't sag or wings on the underside to bare load? But yeah, it'll open up from the middle up

[@LoCoMotiveTimeTravelersDNA]

How many inches did you hold between your Glen Snyder shelves ? Great progress on the new setup !