Club Layouts

Portable Layout - The Kernels and Sanders Line

In May, 2012 construction was started on a small portable layout. The idea behind this is to have a layout the a couple of members could easly transport, setup and operate at various sites, such as, train shows, schools, senior living facilities, etc. It is also to provide an opportunity for members to learn about and experiment with various construction techniques and of course have fun doing it.

The benchwork started as a set of 3-3x5 ft sections and 2-2x5 ft wings. It sits on an aluminum frame that doubles as the rack for carrying the layout in a member's van. Each wing is supported by the end sections and a pair of removable legs. Brass locating pins align the sections as they are assembled. The sections are held together with clamps. It has been expanded to the present size with the addition of a double track loop which can serve as a staging area as well as providing for extended running.

This layout been exhibited at several shows and will be at Trainfest 2014 in Milwaukee. Work sessions are held semi-monthly, 1st Thursday and 3rd Tuesday currently. Come see what is happening and join in the fun.

Working block signals are being incorporated along with computer train control using CTI Electronics Train Brain and Digitrax DCC components.

         

The theme of the railroad is based on Western Wisconsin. There are 2 ethanol plants in this region, Stanley and Boyceville. There are also multiple frac sand mines and processing facilities. So these are the two main industries on the railroad. Of course there is a farm and a community. The community has a passenger depot with daily service. About that railroad name: Kernels & Sanders Railroad. Ethanol is made from the kernels of corn and sand is the obvious objective of sand mining.

Pictures of the construction of the Kernels and Sanders Layout

• Building the benchwork
• Laying out the track plan and installing track
• Beginning the scenery
• The scenery progresses
• The scenery work continues
• Layout at a recent show

 
 

Modular Layout

This layout was layed out a long time ago. It is a modular HO layout. Perhaps you have seen it at one of our shows or other area shows. It's maximum size is 14ft x 40 ft.  
 

Switching Layout

This is a 6ft x 15in layout. It is used as a switching puzzle. This has appeared at multiple shows for attendees to operate.

Here is the track plan:

And a photo of the real thing: