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I've been workin' on the railroad… In the photo essay we show you a modular layout being set up. This process is repeated for every show and takes about 2 hours from start to finish, of course disassembly takes much less time.
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| After unpacking, we begin by inserting the legs into the module sections. We use a design called leg pockets. Leg pockets allow for quick setup. Eye-bolts are used to secure the legs in place. For a more detailed description of leg pockets visit the Fabrication Shop. |  |
| Once the legs have been attached we start arranging the modules. At this point we have not connected the modules together. The goal is to roughly arrange the layout. (These bare modules will become a rolling valley once covered with scenery. To see the end result visit the Observation Car. |  |
| Next we adjust the height of the modules. Adjustable height is a critical capability since we sometimes setup on uneven and irregular surfaces. We use eye-bolts held in place with tee nuts for this purpose. |  |
| The process of connecting the modules together can now begin. We like to pick a corner module as a starting point and work in two teams from both sides of the module. We insert the track pins, make any final height adjustments and fit the modules together. The modules are held to one another using C-clamps. The pre-wired electrical connectors are then plugged together. |  |
| All the modules are in place. We're getting close but there are a couple more steps to go before we can add the scenery. |  |
| Plexiglas guards are inserted
around the perimeter of the layout. This barrier serves two purposes. First in the event
of a derailment it prevents the train from falling to the floor. Second, it discourages
curious hands from wandering onto the layout (which by the way is the major cause of
derailments). At this point we do a test run to make sure no electrical gremlins exist. If there are problems we have to isolate them by selectively breaking the layout into sections. |
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| Now we add the finishing touches. Scenery is put in place and the skirting is attached. We use Velcro to hold the skirting on |  |
| Now we have a complete operational layout ready for the public (and the club) to enjoy. |  |
