Thanks Jimmy! This has given me the motivation to actually start building something, one bite (Phase) at a time. Phase one looks like the perfect way to start learning the fundamentals and is small enough to fit anywhere.
Your air picture of the Elkin downtown area just shows me how much they have done since we moved to Indiana from there. I used to love going to the tracks when an engine was down there sitting, and hearing the engine humming away. I cannot wait to go back for my next visit to see all my Fire Dept family, and see the growth. I am very interested in seeing what you come up with on this segment of your layout.
I look forward to hearing more about these ideas from you Jimmy! I took down my modular Christmas village this past weekend, and boy was it a load easier to do! I was able to haul each of the modules down on my own (granted more huffing and puffing than I liked...round is not the shape to be in), store on their sides and keep everything good and safe for next season. It also takes up less space in storage, and now I can bring out one module at a time to work on the upgrades during the summer. I've got to get everything in order to email over to ya later, I think you'll love it for next Christmas
I *love* your concept of starting small and simple, while looking ahead to something much larger and much more complex. Too many modelers start with their grand plan and then get bogged down by the huge amount of work required before they can run their first train. I'm looking forward to seeing your layout grow.
even though i looked beginner in the rear view mirror a long time - i'm looking forward to this build. i like the concept of phases - but even more the concept of modular construction with the prospect of changing modules out. As long as you have a place to store the modules not in use - you can continue to build layout pieces forever and any time you get modeler's fatigue, just move the layout around and it's a whole new game. seems like endless fun and building!
Love the plan and idea. I have a 5.5x18 foot all ttrak layout in my winter home which I can add to our club layout for shows. In my three season home I have a central oval non-standard ttrak layout which plugs into my around the wall sectional layout. Looking forward to the videos. I also have some ideas for balloon tracks and visible staging on ttrak layouts if you're interested.
Jimmy I have 8 T-Trak 2x2 models, I've had for year but never did anything with them, now I going to follow along and decorate the ones I have, look forward to your build..
I’m a noob that hasn’t been in a position or inclination to get back into the model RR hobby for more than 50 years. I’m very excited about this series but I’m probably not going to be in a position to move beyond Phase 1 (to keep expectations in check). So, if you can spend a fair amount of focus on that initial layout and the opportunities it offers, I’d appreciate it. Thanks!
Steve Jackson', the guy that designed the junction module, has a home layout that is also made of T-TRAK modules. That way he can swap out modules to change it whenever he gets bored with it.
Glad to see the plan for this one Jimmy. As I'm currently building an oval helix, I've been excited to see your plan ever since I caught your mention of it a few months ago on the Second Section Podcast. Already looking forward to Phase 3, lol! (My oval helix serves a different purpose. I needed the vertical lift of a traditional helix, but I always disliked how much time is taken up with the train hidden on the helix. So my oval helix gives me 5" between decks, which is enough vertical space to have about a 7-ft long visible and scenicked straight section on each loop of the helix. It's been a fun build so far.)
gap the entrance and exit of the balloon track and feed that whole module through an AR-1 easy peasy, just make sure you never have a trailing DPU on the gap at the same time as your head end power. I have 2 balloon tracks on my U shaped dogbone. To simplify the wiring of the straight sections and their crossovers, all of the mainline is wired + to near rail a, - far rail a, + to near rail B, - to far rail b. Both balloons are gapped and fed through an AR-1. It couldn't be easier.
May I suggest that with phase 3 put the loop on the bottom layer. It will make working on and operating on easier siNce you won't have to duck under to build or operate, just a thought. I like your plan for the purpose that you stated ,wonderful.
This is exactly what I need, as I live in an apartment with a small garage full of stuff, and am making a space at the back, but would prefer to have it modular, so I can take it down if I need to move, or move it around if I need to. Also, it would be great to use this layout during Christmas time around the tree, and then return it back to the garage, so this is ideal for me. so I hope these build episodes come sooner than later, because I’m starting now, lol thank you for doing this
Now that's a really good looking layout plan. You have a little bit of everything. Sitting here at work drinking some Death Wish Coffee watching your videos.
First of all, Jimmy, I think your overall ideas for this new layout are fantastic. I too regard the journey (planning, designing, building, wiring, etc.) toward a finished layout as just as much fun as operating one. So in that sense I envy your opportunity with this project and look forward to watching (participating) in your progress. I think T-Trak will allow a myriad of opportunities for you for future expansion. My only concern, and this is one that I also face with my Kato n scale layout (due to space limitations in my shared garage), is the restriction that 12.375" and 11" radius track will place on your rolling stock choices. Have you considered this as a limitation or as an opportunity? Ron
I have two reversing loops on my n scale layout. You are correct, just need an auto reverser. I’ve used MRC and NCE reversers, both are good though I had a dud module from MRC once. Very simple, power in, power out to the track, and isolated joiners for that section of track. I recommend making that isolated section longer than the longest engine consist you will run.
I also chose to build my layout from T-trak modules, and I couldn't be happier with this approach. Mine also started on a single table before I expanded it to fill a small room. I look forward to progress on your new modular layout, and I am sure you will really love the T-trak approach as well.
Hummm, that's an interesting question. I used, and recommend using pre-cut module kits. A quick google search should reveal several kit makers. That’s most of the cost. Kato track is preferred with T-trak, and each single module needs 310mm of double track. A quick check of online vendors should give you a price on that. A definate advantage of this approach to model railroading is that you don't need to buy everything at once. Start with enough corner modules to make a loop and a couple of straight modules and you have a running layout that's just begging for expansion! Hope that helps - Kevin
Looks like a great plan Jimmy. You're over thinking the Balloon loop. On your helix, have the trains go down the inside track and upside the outside track so you're not fighting the steeper grade when going up. Looking forward to see this coming alive! - Jason
Can’t wait to follow along, can I send a photo of my little shelf layout and how ,it 14 inch wide modules 2- 2ft 1- 1 ft with a loop,keep up the great work.
I've been in the hobby for years just collecting trains and getting rid of them and now I'm starting to work on a track plan for a 8x8 layout with 2 levels and watching you do this will give me great ideas
I know someone who has a T-TRAK-compatible double helix, but his is built with the 480/447mm double track curves, so it takes up a much larger space than the one you're planning to build. His is an oval as well, but each side of the helix takes up nearly 2 8 foot tables side by side. I'm looking forward to seeing what you do with the one you're going to build. I may have to do something similar if I ever bring my T-TRAK modules back home from the club layout and rebuild my home T-TRAK layout.
Sounds good. I might try to emulate some of your work as the main issue for me is always space available in the house for a layout. Living in Asia (Taiwan) I have invested in some unitrack sets mainly because I can run trains for some weeks when i have holidays and time then put them away the rest of the year as the space in the house is needed by the family. i have been interested in T-trak but yet to take a leap into it. Also new to scenery and think doing some t-trak might be a more reasonable approach. Looking forward to this new series. Keen to have a long Shinkansen (bullet train line ) in addition to the towns and industries, similar to what I see in Japan and Taiwan. Also keen to get into Arduino control or go DCC as most Kato Japanese style trains come DC only. I have made a DCC++ but used cheapo decoders. I guess it is worth spending on name brands and even sound.
Here's a journey I'd love to see as I'm thinking of something similar in what I used to think is a big space but seeing some setups I realize it's a tiny room layout at best. But I didn't want to have a huge expense from the get go and have to build it all at once and just want to be able to run trains first and foremost, then make it bigger and prettier as time allows. Don't know anything about "T-track layout" (although I'm about to google it right after I post this comment) but I was thinking more like creating a series of small torsion boxes so that I'd have extremely stiff platforms to build but are equally light weight. Haven't figured out a leg system though, I may go quick and dirty and use saw horse. But first and foremost I need to get my hands on one of those layout software packages so I can see how much room I really need for curves and so forth.
A hat trick- you’re moving in a fresh direction (like TH-cam apparently needs on occasion), you’re adding some new challenges, and most important, you’re keeping it all beginner/novice friendly.
Certainly the most ambitious T-Trak module home layout plan that I've seen (I'm certainly no expert), I'll be interested to follow along most especially in your follow on phases with what is essentially a multi-deck layout.
Very cool. Excited to follow you on this. Wiring with turnouts should be interesting too, as well as scenery challenges. I'm really interested to see how you keep the flow of this. Will be watching. Thanks!
This would be a cute way to do a first layout for me. However I think I would of course be making my own adjustments to make it for HOn30 scale or 009 scale more likely.
as a (relative) newbie.. and someone who LOVES the T-TRAK scene (I now have 14 modules myself) I am super excited to see your progress. I currently have enough modules to set up a "phase 1" like you -- I am currently just working with the family planning committee to make the space necessary to have it out all the time :-D (I have a discarded interior door, and some saw horses even already...so mine is roughly 7ft long and and 32in deep)
Like others I’m excited to start simple and expand. One question. I have read that auto reverse is hard on locomotives, is that really something to be concerned about? I’ll go back and rewatch the video but did you say what the straight modules are made of, will it be two singles for each side or one double long for each side?
I love this idea of having stages to the project. I'm looking to build my first layout some time this year and have been a little overwhelmed looking at larger layout and underwhelmed with smaller ones. Just out of curiosity what program did you use to great the track layout? It looks super clean.
I'm really looking forward to this series! I've been wanting do something modular as well since I don't have a good space for a permanent layout. The only thing stopping me from going forward has been how and where to store the modules when not in use.
I am getting back in to model train again. Can you tell me if I use dcc++ex with kato turnout and how? Do I need to add another Arduino to control the turnout? Thanks
Hi Jimmy, Looks like a great layout plan. I’ll be interested in watching how you wire it up. Go a question about the modules you plan to use. You did a video about them but I didn’t catch their name or manufacturer? As I hope to do a modular layout in HO they are worth researching. I have considered foam and debating what thickness? Yours looks like I should look into it in more detail. Could you send me the name and any contact info. Thanks, Bill C
T-Trak has really intrigued me as I'm new to the hobby and currently looking at different tracks systems and doing 1,000,000,000:1 bits or research. I have a question regarding unitrack that i've unable to find an answer to, can you operate multiple points off a single switch using Kato point switch. for example on your phase 2 section at the top, you have 2x 20-202, could you operate this from a single switch. so both points are straight or when switched they both go to the diversion route? thanks for your videos Jimmy, they have been a big inspiration
@DIYDigitalRailroad Hi Jimmy, another follow up question regarding the layout, assuming the outer modules will be facing the walls, will you be using full depth modules to fill in the gap normally found between the modules back normally for the cabling or will you be using small filler modules to cove these gaps to make the layout look like one full scene? as I'm also contemplating this as part of my layout as I wish it to be modular but when assembled look like 1 full coherent layout .
Neat idea for the helix.
You can also rotate modules in and out so your layout never gets stale
Thanks Jimmy! This has given me the motivation to actually start building something, one bite (Phase) at a time. Phase one looks like the perfect way to start learning the fundamentals and is small enough to fit anywhere.
Your air picture of the Elkin downtown area just shows me how much they have done since we moved to Indiana from there. I used to love going to the tracks when an engine was down there sitting, and hearing the engine humming away. I cannot wait to go back for my next visit to see all my Fire Dept family, and see the growth. I am very interested in seeing what you come up with on this segment of your layout.
I look forward to hearing more about these ideas from you Jimmy! I took down my modular Christmas village this past weekend, and boy was it a load easier to do! I was able to haul each of the modules down on my own (granted more huffing and puffing than I liked...round is not the shape to be in), store on their sides and keep everything good and safe for next season. It also takes up less space in storage, and now I can bring out one module at a time to work on the upgrades during the summer. I've got to get everything in order to email over to ya later, I think you'll love it for next Christmas
I *love* your concept of starting small and simple, while looking ahead to something much larger and much more complex. Too many modelers start with their grand plan and then get bogged down by the huge amount of work required before they can run their first train. I'm looking forward to seeing your layout grow.
Now this is definitely a series to look forward to! Manageable. Modular. Expandable.
Looking forward to this! Bring it on!
even though i looked beginner in the rear view mirror a long time - i'm looking forward to this build. i like the concept of phases - but even more the concept of modular construction with the prospect of changing modules out. As long as you have a place to store the modules not in use - you can continue to build layout pieces forever and any time you get modeler's fatigue, just move the layout around and it's a whole new game. seems like endless fun and building!
Love the plan and idea. I have a 5.5x18 foot all ttrak layout in my winter home which I can add to our club layout for shows. In my three season home I have a central oval non-standard ttrak layout which plugs into my around the wall sectional layout. Looking forward to the videos. I also have some ideas for balloon tracks and visible staging on ttrak layouts if you're interested.
Jimmy I have 8 T-Trak 2x2 models, I've had for year but never did anything with them, now I going to follow along and decorate the ones I have, look forward to your build..
I’m a noob that hasn’t been in a position or inclination to get back into the model RR hobby for more than 50 years. I’m very excited about this series but I’m probably not going to be in a position to move beyond Phase 1 (to keep expectations in check). So, if you can spend a fair amount of focus on that initial layout and the opportunities it offers, I’d appreciate it. Thanks!
Nice track plan
Being in an N scale club, we run OneTrack & T Track. Our T Track modules set up great on 30" x 8' tables at shows we attend.
Steve Jackson', the guy that designed the junction module, has a home layout that is also made of T-TRAK modules. That way he can swap out modules to change it whenever he gets bored with it.
Glad to see the plan for this one Jimmy. As I'm currently building an oval helix, I've been excited to see your plan ever since I caught your mention of it a few months ago on the Second Section Podcast. Already looking forward to Phase 3, lol!
(My oval helix serves a different purpose. I needed the vertical lift of a traditional helix, but I always disliked how much time is taken up with the train hidden on the helix. So my oval helix gives me 5" between decks, which is enough vertical space to have about a 7-ft long visible and scenicked straight section on each loop of the helix. It's been a fun build so far.)
Looks like a very interesting project. Looking forward to following along. Thanks for sharing.
gap the entrance and exit of the balloon track and feed that whole module through an AR-1 easy peasy, just make sure you never have a trailing DPU on the gap at the same time as your head end power. I have 2 balloon tracks on my U shaped dogbone. To simplify the wiring of the straight sections and their crossovers, all of the mainline is wired + to near rail a, - far rail a, + to near rail B, - to far rail b. Both balloons are gapped and fed through an AR-1. It couldn't be easier.
May I suggest that with phase 3 put the loop on the bottom layer. It will make working on and operating on easier siNce you won't have to duck under to build or operate, just a thought. I like your plan for the purpose that you stated ,wonderful.
This is exactly what I need, as I live in an apartment with a small garage full of stuff, and am making a space at the back, but would prefer to have it modular, so I can take it down if I need to move, or move it around if I need to.
Also, it would be great to use this layout during Christmas time around the tree, and then return it back to the garage, so this is ideal for me. so I hope these build episodes come sooner than later, because I’m starting now, lol thank you for doing this
Now that's a really good looking layout plan. You have a little bit of everything. Sitting here at work drinking some Death Wish Coffee watching your videos.
First of all, Jimmy, I think your overall ideas for this new layout are fantastic. I too regard the journey (planning, designing, building, wiring, etc.) toward a finished layout as just as much fun as operating one. So in that sense I envy your opportunity with this project and look forward to watching (participating) in your progress. I think T-Trak will allow a myriad of opportunities for you for future expansion. My only concern, and this is one that I also face with my Kato n scale layout (due to space limitations in my shared garage), is the restriction that 12.375" and 11" radius track will place on your rolling stock choices. Have you considered this as a limitation or as an opportunity?
Ron
Oh cool, too awesome a new layout , you are so groovy👍🏻
I have two reversing loops on my n scale layout. You are correct, just need an auto reverser. I’ve used MRC and NCE reversers, both are good though I had a dud module from MRC once. Very simple, power in, power out to the track, and isolated joiners for that section of track. I recommend making that isolated section longer than the longest engine consist you will run.
I also chose to build my layout from T-trak modules, and I couldn't be happier with this approach. Mine also started on a single table before I expanded it to fill a small room. I look forward to progress on your new modular layout, and I am sure you will really love the T-trak approach as well.
How much did each square foot average out to in cost?
Hummm, that's an interesting question. I used, and recommend using pre-cut module kits. A quick google search should reveal several kit makers. That’s most of the cost. Kato track is preferred with T-trak, and each single module needs 310mm of double track. A quick check of online vendors should give you a price on that. A definate advantage of this approach to model railroading is that you don't need to buy everything at once. Start with enough corner modules to make a loop and a couple of straight modules and you have a running layout that's just begging for expansion! Hope that helps - Kevin
@kevinbrown104 it does help. Thank you, and Happy Modeling!
Really nice track plan. I really like the module design that you can reallly grow.
Looks like you are going on quite the journey. I will be following the progress. Looks fun. Thanks for sharing David @LCRR
I'm excited to see this come together! I think using individual modules as classes on neat things to do will be really cool
I just started model railroading and looking forward to see whats next
I love this approach. Really shows what you can do starting from just an oval
Looks like a great plan Jimmy. You're over thinking the Balloon loop. On your helix, have the trains go down the inside track and upside the outside track so you're not fighting the steeper grade when going up. Looking forward to see this coming alive! - Jason
Looking forward to this I plan on building some T-Trak-z modules in the spring as well as standard T-Traks.
Great concept, and even better Great Verse
Excited to see this progress. This is my plan as well!
Can’t wait to follow along, can I send a photo of my little shelf layout and how ,it 14 inch wide modules 2- 2ft 1- 1 ft with a loop,keep up the great work.
I've been in the hobby for years just collecting trains and getting rid of them and now I'm starting to work on a track plan for a 8x8 layout with 2 levels and watching you do this will give me great ideas
I actually had an idea of making a layout similar to phase II, but in an L rather than a U. Maybe I should go back to considering this again.
I'm not new but an oval helix!.. Go forth, Young Jedi. May the power of Sparky107107 be with you😁🚂🇨🇦🇺🇲👍
I know someone who has a T-TRAK-compatible double helix, but his is built with the 480/447mm double track curves, so it takes up a much larger space than the one you're planning to build. His is an oval as well, but each side of the helix takes up nearly 2 8 foot tables side by side. I'm looking forward to seeing what you do with the one you're going to build. I may have to do something similar if I ever bring my T-TRAK modules back home from the club layout and rebuild my home T-TRAK layout.
Sounds good. I might try to emulate some of your work as the main issue for me is always space available in the house for a layout. Living in Asia (Taiwan) I have invested in some unitrack sets mainly because I can run trains for some weeks when i have holidays and time then put them away the rest of the year as the space in the house is needed by the family. i have been interested in T-trak but yet to take a leap into it. Also new to scenery and think doing some t-trak might be a more reasonable approach. Looking forward to this new series. Keen to have a long Shinkansen (bullet train line ) in addition to the towns and industries, similar to what I see in Japan and Taiwan. Also keen to get into Arduino control or go DCC as most Kato Japanese style trains come DC only. I have made a DCC++ but used cheapo decoders. I guess it is worth spending on name brands and even sound.
looks great is this a N gauge layout and if so could I do it in ho
Here's a journey I'd love to see as I'm thinking of something similar in what I used to think is a big space but seeing some setups I realize it's a tiny room layout at best. But I didn't want to have a huge expense from the get go and have to build it all at once and just want to be able to run trains first and foremost, then make it bigger and prettier as time allows.
Don't know anything about "T-track layout" (although I'm about to google it right after I post this comment) but I was thinking more like creating a series of small torsion boxes so that I'd have extremely stiff platforms to build but are equally light weight. Haven't figured out a leg system though, I may go quick and dirty and use saw horse. But first and foremost I need to get my hands on one of those layout software packages so I can see how much room I really need for curves and so forth.
Hi Jimmy, while I don't need to see the t-track side of things I will be interested to see what you come up with as things develop.
A hat trick- you’re moving in a fresh direction (like TH-cam apparently needs on occasion), you’re adding some new challenges, and most important, you’re keeping it all beginner/novice friendly.
This is going to be way cool. You got it. Thinking of doing a layout in the bonus room and will be watching your progress.
Sounds like an exciting project Jimmy, I definitely will be following along 👍👍
Certainly the most ambitious T-Trak module home layout plan that I've seen (I'm certainly no expert), I'll be interested to follow along most especially in your follow on phases with what is essentially a multi-deck layout.
Can't wait for you to start want to do modules also. Every exciting New Year project.
GOD BLESS 🚂💖🚂💖🚂💖🚂💖
Very cool. Excited to follow you on this. Wiring with turnouts should be interesting too, as well as scenery challenges. I'm really interested to see how you keep the flow of this. Will be watching. Thanks!
This would be a cute way to do a first layout for me. However I think I would of course be making my own adjustments to make it for HOn30 scale or 009 scale more likely.
Looks super fun. when do you start building?
as a (relative) newbie.. and someone who LOVES the T-TRAK scene (I now have 14 modules myself) I am super excited to see your progress. I currently have enough modules to set up a "phase 1" like you -- I am currently just working with the family planning committee to make the space necessary to have it out all the time :-D (I have a discarded interior door, and some saw horses even already...so mine is roughly 7ft long and and 32in deep)
Put the auto-reverser on the balloon loop track itself, that way the double crossover track can be wired as normal.
Sounds awesome! Will be a great project 👍
Cant wait to see the results!🥳
Like others I’m excited to start simple and expand. One question. I have read that auto reverse is hard on locomotives, is that really something to be concerned about? I’ll go back and rewatch the video but did you say what the straight modules are made of, will it be two singles for each side or one double long for each side?
Love this!!!!!!!!!
BTW Jimmy: the development version of DCC-EX has a built-in autoreverser facility... ask us how ;-)
I love this idea of having stages to the project. I'm looking to build my first layout some time this year and have been a little overwhelmed looking at larger layout and underwhelmed with smaller ones. Just out of curiosity what program did you use to great the track layout? It looks super clean.
Sweet!
I'm really looking forward to this series! I've been wanting do something modular as well since I don't have a good space for a permanent layout. The only thing stopping me from going forward has been how and where to store the modules when not in use.
Very interesting. Super excited to watch your progress.
Hope start mine mid summer
ok this is awesome and a great idea
I am getting back in to model train again. Can you tell me if I use dcc++ex with kato turnout and how? Do I need to add another Arduino to control the turnout? Thanks
good vid on channel thanks lee
What is the website you used for this? To map the layout.
What program do you use to make the map?
Hi Jimmy, Looks like a great layout plan. I’ll be interested in watching how you wire it up. Go a question about the modules you plan to use. You did a video about them but I didn’t catch their name or manufacturer? As I hope to do a modular layout in HO they are worth researching. I have considered foam and debating what thickness? Yours looks like I should look into it in more detail. Could you send me the name and any contact info. Thanks, Bill C
Is there a TTrack type system for HO Scale?
T-Trak has really intrigued me as I'm new to the hobby and currently looking at different tracks systems and doing 1,000,000,000:1 bits or research. I have a question regarding unitrack that i've unable to find an answer to, can you operate multiple points off a single switch using Kato point switch. for example on your phase 2 section at the top, you have 2x 20-202, could you operate this from a single switch. so both points are straight or when switched they both go to the diversion route? thanks for your videos Jimmy, they have been a big inspiration
@DIYDigitalRailroad Hi Jimmy, another follow up question regarding the layout, assuming the outer modules will be facing the walls, will you be using full depth modules to fill in the gap normally found between the modules back normally for the cabling or will you be using small filler modules to cove these gaps to make the layout look like one full scene? as I'm also contemplating this as part of my layout as I wish it to be modular but when assembled look like 1 full coherent layout .
Not sure if you answered this but is this still going to be n scale?
what scale do you model in?
He’s an N scale guy, if memory serves.
Hello
What software did you use to plan that layout? It doesn’t look like SCARM.
I think it's AnyRail 6. I use it too and am very happy with it!
Why does every layout have a town? I may build the first layout in history with no Main Street!
oops I built a 10 ft by 6 ft table.