Structure Planning - Mock Up 1

I am creating the first industry on the layout with a mock up made with concrete/brick images printed on cardstock and mounted on foamcore board. A noticed a mistake with my initial mock up, but that will be an easy fix. I will test this arrangement and build the next section of this industry in the near future.

The mock up was created with textures from Clever Models (see photo for their website address on the CD). I will be using this same method (images on cardstock & foamcore) for the final version of this industry complex.

Tom

OASIS Layout Update 2 - Track Testing

The track is tacked down to the homasote, and the Caboose Industries ground throws are in place as well. I am now ready to test out the track plan on the actual benchwork. I am still undecided on what particular industries will be served, so this step of layout construction will help me decide. This may take me a few weeks or even a month or more of testing and tweaking before anything is finalized.

Once the track arrangement and industries are finalized, then I will proceed to paint and weather the track.

OASIS Layout Update - Track Installation 01

Good News!

I am happy to report that I have finished laying out the track for the new layout. I will be testing it for a couple of weeks to make sure it is going to work.
After testing, I will begin the process of painting and weathering the ties and the rails.




Here's a very short video clip of the new layout in action!

Tom

Track Plan 4.0

A new plan!  The layout construction phase has begun! This layout build is a variation of the TOMA (The One Module Approach) layout construction philosophy. It's known as the "Flexible" TOMA.  The TOMA method is discussed in detail at the MRH Web Site.  Future expansion is possible as well.

I will be posting a more detailed account of what is going on with layout construction in the future, but here is a quick overview...

• Track is being laid as of July 25, 2017. 
• Going with Atlas code 100 due to hobby budget and a surplus supply of code 100 track. 
• Testing of the track arrangement with locomotives and cars is planned for July 29

Updates may be infrequent, but layout work will be progressing over the next several weeks. Stay tuned!

Tom Conboy

Track Plan V 3.1

Here's a revised track plan for the Owensville OASIS District

This plan was revised on January 21, 2017.

I found a couple of issues with V 3.0 that would have hindered operations.  This revised plan allows a train to move directly from the Rock Island yard to the Owensville Terminal yard without any switchback moves. I will review this plan for a few more weeks before I start laying track.  At least in the Rock Island yard section of the layout.  I am pleased with the track arrangement for the OTRR yard tracks, so track work can begin at any time in that location.

Tom