Appalachian Southern

I hope everyone likes the new colors of the website. I have been working to get that done over the past few days.

Atlas code 55 finally made its way onto the layout today in the staging area. I figured I would do the complicated part first.  I haven’t cut the track at the gate yet. The adhesive is still drying.

First Code 55 Atlas Track Laid on the Layout

Atlas Code 55 N Scale on Drop Gate

#7's Ready for Tortoises

Having only a little time this morning to work on the layout, the final steps were completed prior to laying the first sections of Atlas Code 55.  Some cutting made the walk-through bridge / gate look much better.  You can see in the pictures below, the track lines are now drawn in.  A three inch piece of 1/8 Masonite is invaluable for drawing curves as long as you can find a friend or spouse to help you hold it in place.

All of the lines for the staging track turned out really well. They are located on 1-3/8″ centers.  The six foot metal ruler I was using is also proving to be invaluable for drawing the straight sections of the staging area.

The next step will be to start laying some track. If everything goes as planned, the first sections will be installed this evening. My wife has to work late, so this will be the perfect opportunity to get it done.

Modifications Made to Walk-Through Gate

Guidelines to Use When Laying Staging Track

Staging Area (Lower Level)

Bridge Locking Device (One of Two)

The Look of the Staging Area Prior to Track

Here are some of the finishing touches on version 8, but I just now realized that I left out some switches needed between the two mains to work the city areas and stub ended yards.  I still need to add the city and industry names for both levels. Still plenty to do.

Version 8 Upper Level

Here is version 7 of the upper level plan. Looking good. Click for a larger image.

Upper Level Version 7

I added a few details to the upper level track plan, version 6. Click for a larger version.

Upper Level Version 6

Ok, I screwed up on version 11, but version 12 changes everything and just might work… Click for larger.

Version 12

Here is version 9. Added the mountainous section and tunnel.  I have got to get to work on the yard design for the top section.  As usual, click for a larger version.

Version 9

The main level is really starting to take shape now. Thanks to Mike at Owens Valley Sub for his help and  for his creative ideas.  Click for a larger version

Version 8 Main Level

Airport added, new freight terminal added for airport. Click picture for larger version.

Version 7