Spent my youth building HO models, then worked for the Great American Train show through college. Moved to NY and have no space but loved watching this. Think it's time to find some space for my future layout. Great video and skill building this.
that just hurts - you've been more productive in this video than I have been in my entire life. I don't suppose you could have it fall over to make me feel better about myself
WOW!!! Spectacular and 'shades of Linn Westcott', I've used his ideas and techniques many years ago. Seriously strong in spite of not appearing to be at first. My wife and I are planning to build our 'last house' on two acres soon and I'm planning an out building somewhat similar in size to your "addition". First floor wood working shop, second floor dream layout, very strongly John Allen, George Sellios, and Doug Foscale (Foscale Models) influenced. You are my current 'hero' and model to 'glean ideas ' from now, as well. Thanks for allowing us to follow along vicariously on your adventure and well thought through small world structure!!!
Thanks so much for the kind words. Yes, my layout is more of a 'throwback' style than the more contemporary shallow shelf style. It means challenges with reach and size in certain places, but I wanted something grand, with mountains and long runs. Other people do it, why can't I? Good luck with your dream house! Sounds awesome!
Thanks for sharing your interest in model railroading. My father set up an American Flyer layout for me and a Lionel setup for my brother many years ago, but neither came close to your endeavors. Can’t wait to follow your progress. GNH
Awesome - well done! All the support tasks for the work filmed takes time and effort as well, and of course the planning, the buying, the carrying, the trips for tools, glue, etc, and there'll be a trip to the bank as well! Awesome!
Skip the intro 2:49. Hey everyone! Thanks for watching! I see some repeating questions here so I'll try to answer them as best I can: 1. How big is the room? It's approximately 34ft x 42ft (on the short side) x 47ft (on the long side) 2. How big is the train platform? It's approx 28ft x 32ft (on the short side) x 40ft (on the long side) 3. How big are the aisles? The are about 34inches. Not super wide, but adequate for most situations. 4. The benchwork looks too deep so won't it be difficult to reach certain areas easily? Yes, the benchwork results in a reach that is 48" from any edge, which is beyond the generally acceptable 30" maximum, however, the vast majority of track is within the 30", with the remaining area left for scenics. Not the most ideal solution for some, but it helped me meet certain objectives and as we all know, most layouts involve some compromises. Those areas too far to reach (there are two) will have access hatches. I don't expect I'll need to use them much because there are no operations taking place in these areas, only run-throughs. 5. What area and railroad are you modeling? This will be a freelance pike, resembling mountain railroading in the western US. I am a fan and collector of differing road equipment, so doing a prototype model wasn't in the cards.
Just found this and subscribed, incredible train room so large, am i jealous, no well not much, well yes i am Here in England we only have small spaces, and i think our timber prices are sky high to yours, im following with great interest this superb undertaking, thanks for sharing, Tony
I was just looking at finished layouts, and this popped up. After 30 seconds I said “no way I’m listening to this guy for 14 minutes…… next thing you know, videos done! Excellent work and editing
Love your videos. Thank you for creating them. I hope you keep us updated with train room progress. It's very inspiring. Hoping to do the same as you one day, large train room above the garage/woodshop. I really appreciate the work you put into the room, the layout, and producing the videos.
And the work continues day and night! This project is the most ambitious model railroad I've ever seen, that is amazing to have such a wonderful space to build a layout.
Seeing this gives me great memories when the Miniature Wonderland we have here in Hamburg started all those years ago back in 2000. Now they are the biggest H0 layout in the world and are still expanding. A few months ago they put in a new steel bridge to the neighbor building (and across the canal between the buildings) to continue expanding. And they have plans to expand till 2027 and even then its not sure that they are done because they have SO many ideas that are just awesome that they surely will find a way to keep going. And the wonderful thing is: I was there around 8 times in the last 5 years and i still find new details and ask: "Was this already there all the time?" I really hope that you will have a similar success some day.
At least your wife didn't say, "You don't have enough years left to finish a project like that." I'm not that old, I don't know what she meant by that. Save this comment for evidence.
Dude. Model rockets, RC cars, helicopters, cars, and model railroading.... everything I love. I plan to do what you have done with you garage in a few years. And Loctite Power Grab IS THE BEST for cork & track. I just wish they had not discontinued to the "goes on white, dries clear" product.
I had the pleasure of experiencing the Tombstone a few years ago...but not by Helicopter....but maybe someday. In the mean time thanks for the great insights there and model rr landscape building. Cheers.
Your channel is inspiring. You’ve inspired me.. to drive around the U.S. and find your home so that I can knock on your door and maybe be your friend. Your layout looks awesome and your video production is fantastic. Glad I found your channel. -Mark
Carrying everything up the stairwell? I’d have considered a freight elevator to also help handicapped visitors. But, what a dream! Thanks for sharing...
Very ambitious and good looking project. My only comment is about the 1/2 inch plywood. You may need to laminate some additional support below the sections where the curves are to keep them from sagging. I used 3/4 and it worked better
I’m starting a layout in the Spring that’s destined for a 40ft x 48ft space. Your videos are timely because I’m still making some decisions on how things will be constructed.
Subbed after watching this and the previous build video... watching with great interest as you are building my dream. Can't wait for the next instalment. Thanks from Australia
Fascinating to see a layout this size been constructed so quickly by one person, very impressive and interesting to see your approach. It will be quite an admirable layout and those bridges wow. Thanks for the insight. Stephen
Very informative video, i want to build one room with a magnificent layout, and you give so much idea's that i can use to build it. thank you very much, i am looking forward to your next video!
A point of clarification to reduce confusion ... The Rock Island railroad bridge is BNSF Railway's bridge across the Columbia River, at Rock Island, Washington. The structure consists of one through truss, one deck truss, and an approach trestle.
Thanks for the info on the Rock Island Bridge. Many don't hardly know it's even there due to the embankment that hides it from Hwy 26. I hiked up the bank years ago and got some shots of the local and a Z Train and always thought the bridge looked interesting almost reinforced. Never realized I was right, lol. They did reinforce it. It sees so many trains a day (well did till Covid hit). It's an amazing piece of construction. Just sad it's surrounded by private property. I need to get my drone out there and get some aerial shots of it some day when I'm crossing the state. You layout is amazing I cannot wait to see it finished. I'm an avid railfan, just wish I had room to have a nice layout
I'm an HO model railroader. I'm still using the old DC type trains. All this new DCC type trains are too expensive for my budget. I'm quite familiar with wiring tracks into blocks with switches on a panel. I did like to watch you build the benchwork and making the sub roadbed. I do buy HO scale things from eBay sellers.
I'm looking forward to that additional video that discusses how you came out with the track plan before construction even started and modifications that occurred during construction. As a person getting back into this hobby, I would be very interested to learn how you visualized both the lateral spacing of the layout and the elevation aspects? It's truly incredible!
Hello, I live in Rock Island, WA and live very close to the Rock Island Bridge that is showing in your layout. It is referred to as a bridge inside of a bridge, because it has burn at least twice.
Nice room for your hobby. What i find interesting is that i see a plan quite big, but no sign of laying out cables for power to do the light or any energy needed for buildings you put there in the scenery as well as power for the trains. How are you going to work that out? I guess you want some control panel or so for that.
this is cool! You might want to start adding numbers to your video titles so we can follow along more easily (since they will all be called "update" otherwise)
I agree. I saw episode 2 first.. then 3rd. Then the first. Could it be I'm dyslexic? Or just didn't see the first video available. Anyways, love the work on the roadies, since I will be doing this myself soon. Like knowing how its done. This video helped tremendously. Thanx
I am so envious, only wish I had the room to provide for such a great model railroad, looking forward to more videos. Would you be so kind as to confirm the thickness of the plywood subroadbed. Thanks, look forward to more videos.
Fantastic, very enjoyable and informative here in the UK. I have just dismantled the Lionel O Gauge Layout I built in the loft 25 years ago and am moving to a new home and beginning the design of the benchmark and loved the design and construction you've used - I think I may well be copying if that is OK.
Amazing what one can accomplish in 14 minutes.
Tbh this was probably 10 days but sped up and cut out the parts of night
Lol
Your hobby room is bigger than my house.
That's why I use N scale.
Spent my youth building HO models, then worked for the Great American Train show through college. Moved to NY and have no space but loved watching this. Think it's time to find some space for my future layout. Great video and skill building this.
that just hurts - you've been more productive in this video than I have been in my entire life. I don't suppose you could have it fall over to make me feel better about myself
WOW!!! Spectacular and 'shades of Linn Westcott', I've used his ideas and techniques many years ago. Seriously strong in spite of not appearing to be at first. My wife and I are planning to build our 'last house' on two acres soon and I'm planning an out building somewhat similar in size to your "addition". First floor wood working shop, second floor dream layout, very strongly John Allen, George Sellios, and Doug Foscale (Foscale Models) influenced. You are my current 'hero' and model to 'glean ideas ' from now, as well. Thanks for allowing us to follow along vicariously on your adventure and well thought through small world structure!!!
Thanks so much for the kind words. Yes, my layout is more of a 'throwback' style than the more contemporary shallow shelf style. It means challenges with reach and size in certain places, but I wanted something grand, with mountains and long runs. Other people do it, why can't I? Good luck with your dream house! Sounds awesome!
looking forward to seeing this layout progress and eventually running some trains! subscribed!!
Thanks Jeffrey!
As a retired firefighter, I'd say you need four fire stations for proper coverage of your entire layout, and the proper number of apparatus! 👩🚒
Agreed, plus they need some drop tanks pre-installed and 1 inch fire hose (probably a few miles of it) in the remote areas for miniature wildfires
Thanks for the tip! I only have one fire station under construction. Way too inadequate!
I agree as a Dutch firefighter and H0-model maker.
You need to monitor crime in the area and determine how Police stations you need. Of course prison too. ;)
We're all living vicariously through you! Such an epic layout. Would love to see a video of your rolling stock.
Once I get the video of the mainline up (two videos from now), I will switch things up a bit and post some trains running.
Thanks for posting. Love the fact you are thinking about putting in a trolley system. Can't wait for the next video
Thanks for sharing your interest in model railroading. My father set up an American Flyer layout for me and a Lionel setup for my brother many years ago, but neither came close to your endeavors. Can’t wait to follow your progress. GNH
Awesome - well done! All the support tasks for the work filmed takes time and effort as well, and of course the planning, the buying, the carrying, the trips for tools, glue, etc, and there'll be a trip to the bank as well! Awesome!
Skip the intro 2:49. Hey everyone! Thanks for watching! I see some repeating questions here so I'll try to answer them as best I can:
1. How big is the room? It's approximately 34ft x 42ft (on the short side) x 47ft (on the long side)
2. How big is the train platform? It's approx 28ft x 32ft (on the short side) x 40ft (on the long side)
3. How big are the aisles? The are about 34inches. Not super wide, but adequate for most situations.
4. The benchwork looks too deep so won't it be difficult to reach certain areas easily? Yes, the benchwork results in a reach that is 48" from any edge, which is beyond the generally acceptable 30" maximum, however, the vast majority of track is within the 30", with the remaining area left for scenics. Not the most ideal solution for some, but it helped me meet certain objectives and as we all know, most layouts involve some compromises. Those areas too far to reach (there are two) will have access hatches. I don't expect I'll need to use them much because there are no operations taking place in these areas, only run-throughs.
5. What area and railroad are you modeling? This will be a freelance pike, resembling mountain railroading in the western US. I am a fan and collector of differing road equipment, so doing a prototype model wasn't in the cards.
Just found this and subscribed, incredible train room so large, am i jealous, no well not much, well yes i am
Here in England we only have small spaces, and i think our timber prices are sky high to yours, im following with great interest this superb undertaking, thanks for sharing, Tony
This is amazing. Can't wait for more videos to come. I love being able to see a gigantic layout like this come together from the very beginning.
Thanks for watching! I have many video plans!
I was just looking at finished layouts, and this popped up. After 30 seconds I said “no way I’m listening to this guy for 14 minutes…… next thing you know, videos done! Excellent work and editing
Love your videos. Thank you for creating them. I hope you keep us updated with train room progress. It's very inspiring. Hoping to do the same as you one day, large train room above the garage/woodshop. I really appreciate the work you put into the room, the layout, and producing the videos.
Thanks Derek! Very nice of you to say.
And the work continues day and night! This project is the most ambitious model railroad I've ever seen, that is amazing to have such a wonderful space to build a layout.
I enjoy craftsman of all types. Well done.
This is fantastic! Just stumbled across your channel. I'll be looking forward to seeing progress as this layout comes together!
Now that’s a model railroad.......thanks for sharing...
Wow! New to the channel and just watched the three episodes of this series back to back. Really looking forward to seeing how this developes!
Totally mesmerised by what you have done so far. Hopefully there will be more videos
Great video. Great content. Well Done.
Outstanding Job! I'm really looking forward to the rest of your build. Thanks for the video!
Impressive bench work and amazing trestle!
I watched this the other day on my TV, but wanted to come back to comment.
Great looking bridges. They really look great on the layout!!
Thanks HJ!
There is a remarkable amount of great information being freely given here. Thank you so very much!
Seeing this gives me great memories when the Miniature Wonderland we have here in Hamburg started all those years ago back in 2000. Now they are the biggest H0 layout in the world and are still expanding. A few months ago they put in a new steel bridge to the neighbor building (and across the canal between the buildings) to continue expanding. And they have plans to expand till 2027 and even then its not sure that they are done because they have SO many ideas that are just awesome that they surely will find a way to keep going.
And the wonderful thing is: I was there around 8 times in the last 5 years and i still find new details and ask: "Was this already there all the time?"
I really hope that you will have a similar success some day.
I have almost no interest in trains but I absolutely love this guys passion. Looks like a lot of hard work, all worth it.
Looks incredible......the finished layout is going to be amazing.......you are one driven individual......
Very kind of you to say. I do take breaks from time to time.
My wife saw this, I looked at her and she said " In your dreams boy, win the lottery and may be ".. lol
Why not? It's cliche, but you do only live once.
At least your wife didn't say, "You don't have enough years left to finish a project like that." I'm not that old, I don't know what she meant by that. Save this comment for evidence.
I see she is really enthusiastic about helping/supporting you reach your goals.
Tell Your wife that Model Trains keep you out of Topless Bars and Strip Joints, after that, she will Gladly fund your Hobby :) LOL
i guess u need to remind her who wears the pants in the family,lol.
Can't wait for your first open house
Dude. Model rockets, RC cars, helicopters, cars, and model railroading.... everything I love. I plan to do what you have done with you garage in a few years. And Loctite Power Grab IS THE BEST for cork & track. I just wish they had not discontinued to the "goes on white, dries clear" product.
Thanks for the kind words! All the best...
I had the pleasure of experiencing the Tombstone a few years ago...but not by Helicopter....but maybe someday. In the mean time thanks for the great insights there and model rr landscape building. Cheers.
Thanks for watching!
10’ trestle?? Wow!
Love it.👍🏻👍🏻
Yes! Thank you!
WOW !that looks like a serious workout. That is a fantastic job !
Your channel is inspiring. You’ve inspired me.. to drive around the U.S. and find your home so that I can knock on your door and maybe be your friend. Your layout looks awesome and your video production is fantastic. Glad I found your channel. -Mark
Carrying everything up the stairwell? I’d have considered a freight elevator to also help handicapped visitors. But, what a dream! Thanks for sharing...
Definitely need to keep this series going. Very excited to see where it goes.
When I gave up my HO trains I also gave up the Disneyland monorail system which was a lot of fun with sound and lights.
This is extraordinary. Such a gift to be able to watch a master ply his craft
Thanks for watching and the kind words! Look for another video before the end of the month!
Looking great ...thanks for the tip on the Loctite product.
Sure thing! Hope it helps!
Can't wait so see the finished product glad I caught you it the opening stages of the project! This is really neat keep up the great work sir
Outstanding layout sir. Coming from someone who's worked with electronics and electricity have fun with the wiring and controls. But I do like it.
This is so impressive. Looking forward to the wiring of the layout.
Thanks for watching! Checkout a later video on wiring: th-cam.com/video/O-TR5_6pTLQ/w-d-xo.html&lc=
Very ambitious and good looking project. My only comment is about the 1/2 inch plywood. You may need to laminate some additional support below the sections where the curves are to keep them from sagging. I used 3/4 and it worked better
I’m starting a layout in the Spring that’s destined for a 40ft x 48ft space. Your videos are timely because I’m still making some decisions on how things will be constructed.
Very very nice job
Thank you! Stay tuned for more!
thank you for detail video
wish best further planning on your detail layout
from Australia
Thanks Robert! Was in Australia a few years go. Hayman Island and Sydney. I need to go back!
Incredible project! Thanks so much for letting us be a part of this journey! Really looking forward to your future videos. Greetings from Germany!
What an amazing construction project this is. Really excited to see it progress. Hello from Scotland!
I wish I had the room.very nice.
Fantastic....Quite a vision you have.... looking Great....
Thanks!
Subbed after watching this and the previous build video... watching with great interest as you are building my dream. Can't wait for the next instalment. Thanks from Australia
Fascinating to see a layout this size been constructed so quickly by one person, very impressive and interesting to see your approach. It will be quite an admirable layout and those bridges wow. Thanks for the insight. Stephen
Thanks Stephen!
Unbelievable! What a fabulous space for the trains, well done!
Stunning scenery and awesome Northern lights...oh and the train layout is good too...great bridges 👌
Wow wow wow, very impressive and I love the tips and ideas
Thanks so much 😊
Very good video and tech help. Your a really skilled craftsman.
This looks fantastic so far! Looking forward to the next videos. Greetings from Germany
Im not a railroader, but that is mad dedication and effort to build that layout............
Haha thanks!
Really impressive, I appreciate the fast speed assembly.
Very happy you made these videos. I would suggest taking out the intro and outro stuff though.
great layout build video.. looking forward to future updates to the layout build.
incredible great work cant wait to see more on this build
Thanks!
You are absolutely talented! So glad I came across your videos!
I cant wait to see the next video! This makes my 34'x8' HO layout look small. I'm in the build process as well.
Thanks for watching Ray. Good luck with your layout!
Incredibly talented.
Wow, thanks Doc!
Very informative video, i want to build one room with a magnificent layout, and you give so much idea's that i can use to build it. thank you very much, i am looking forward to your next video!
Those pictures would make for an awesome backdrop on your layout
Real fascinating work you are a lucky guy to have such possibilities!
Thank you! Yes I feel blessed.
Very tasteful decision to put the Rock Island bridge framed by the windows.
A point of clarification to reduce confusion ... The Rock Island railroad bridge is BNSF Railway's bridge across the Columbia River, at Rock Island, Washington. The structure consists of one through truss, one deck truss, and an approach trestle.
What an amazing undertaking!
I am in absolute awe and envy!
Amazing! This is every model railroad enthusiast's wet dream. Nice job!
Thanks for the info on the Rock Island Bridge. Many don't hardly know it's even there due to the embankment that hides it from Hwy 26. I hiked up the bank years ago and got some shots of the local and a Z Train and always thought the bridge looked interesting almost reinforced. Never realized I was right, lol. They did reinforce it. It sees so many trains a day (well did till Covid hit). It's an amazing piece of construction. Just sad it's surrounded by private property. I need to get my drone out there and get some aerial shots of it some day when I'm crossing the state.
You layout is amazing I cannot wait to see it finished. I'm an avid railfan, just wish I had room to have a nice layout
I flew in the Yukon 2 summers ago .. miss that place .. amazing landscape .. very cool project .. looking forward to more updates! subscribed :)
I'm an HO model railroader. I'm still using the old DC type trains. All this new DCC type trains are too expensive for my budget. I'm quite familiar with wiring tracks into blocks with switches on a panel. I did like to watch you build the benchwork and making the sub roadbed. I do buy HO scale things from eBay sellers.
This is looking amazing! Can't wait to see this come together.
Thanks! I've been very happy with the outcomes so far.
I'm looking forward to that additional video that discusses how you came out with the track plan before construction even started and modifications that occurred during construction. As a person getting back into this hobby, I would be very interested to learn how you visualized both the lateral spacing of the layout and the elevation aspects? It's truly incredible!
Great job.
Thank you, Robert!
What a fantastic layout! I look forward to seeing it running. Nice Job.
I love these narrated time lapse videos. And wow, what a layout. Definitely following this build. Subscribed 👍
Hello, I live in Rock Island, WA and live very close to the Rock Island Bridge that is showing in your layout. It is referred to as a bridge inside of a bridge, because it has burn at least twice.
Awesome layout the only thing missing is a helix! Great work, keep the videos coming.
Amazing layout, massive amount of work 👏
Outstanding! Looking fwd to see more! Nice shots of the camping trip, too!
I love what you are building, can't wait for the next one.
Looks absolutely amazing. You're making incredible progress.
Thanks! Looking forward to doing run videos and product reviews in the near future.
Nice room for your hobby. What i find interesting is that i see a plan quite big, but no sign of laying out cables for power to do the light or any energy needed for buildings you put there in the scenery as well as power for the trains. How are you going to work that out? I guess you want some control panel or so for that.
All in due time...you'll just have to wait and see.
Eagerly waiting for the next episode!
Awesome, just wish I had this kind of room for my layout!!
wow. Impressive. I have inside and outside sets but it took many years to do but yours was up so fast.
All I can say is WOW! and can't wait to see the next video and how this layout takes shape. Stay well. -Wil 👍
this is cool! You might want to start adding numbers to your video titles so we can follow along more easily (since they will all be called "update" otherwise)
I agree. I saw episode 2 first.. then 3rd. Then the first. Could it be I'm dyslexic? Or just didn't see the first video available. Anyways, love the work on the roadies, since I will be doing this myself soon. Like knowing how its done. This video helped tremendously. Thanx
Thanks for the tip. Will do...
I am so envious, only wish I had the room to provide for such a great model railroad, looking forward to more videos. Would you be so kind as to confirm the thickness of the plywood subroadbed. Thanks, look forward to more videos.
2 railroad wagons wood, 1 railroad wagon screws, 1 railroad wagon nerves, 3 railroad wagons time&money - jesus, what a project!
Fantastic, very enjoyable and informative here in the UK. I have just dismantled the Lionel O Gauge Layout I built in the loft 25 years ago and am moving to a new home and beginning the design of the benchmark and loved the design and construction you've used - I think I may well be copying if that is OK.
Good luck with your new place! Of course you can copy whatever you want!
I subscribed because I need the fix of what happens next. This is amazing.