For the gravel road, may I suggest trying to add a light mix of white sand to the gravel, which might help fill in the gaps? It would, of course, lighten the color a bit, but not too much I think, if you use it sparingly. I have successfully used sifted play sand on my "dirt" parking lot, which I then painted a very light gray/tan (white paint mixed with light gray and tan). Your layout looks great!
Hello! That’s a great idea. I’ve been brainstorming ways to help blend things together with the gravel. This is a new technique I’m using, so it may take some trial and error to get it just right. I really appreciate your compliments on the layout! -Mike
Mike, nice progress! Personally, I am looking forward to your comments/ideas about the bridge. I need to span a doorway into the train room and I'm interested in structure, track alignment, and power cut-off systems. I am also intrigued by your new road construction. I model Nebraska and we have quite a few roads near the tracks.
Hello! I appreciate you watching. I have spent (way too many) hours brainstorming for the best way to bridge that gap! Ha. Most layouts I’ve seen have spans that lift up or out. But- being I’m so tall- my layout is fairly high…which means there’s not enough space to go up with it. My goal is to get the track across and cut to begin with so I can at least get to the other side. I fully anticipate making tweaks and upgrades to it as time goes on. I’ll keep everyone posted!
Hi! I will be sure to make a video about that! I had patched up some Conrail GP40s from Atlas a year or two ago and released an episode about that. I learned some things during the process, so I’m hoping this second go-around will be even easier.
Congratulations on the beautiful work! Here in Brazil, since we don't have access to as many accessories as you do, we have to be very creative with our models.
I appreciate that! Yes…having access to a lot of accessories can be good, but part of me misses the days when there weren’t as many options and we had to improvise more. These days we can get any item imaginable- but I still enjoy building some things from scratch. I appreciate you watching! -Mike
Hello, Allen! Thank you for watching! Yes, I’ve got to have some BN in there! I partly blame the BN on my love of the Katy! Ha. I saw plenty of BN when I was a little kid living in Wyoming and southern Missouri. So, I think the green on the Katy looked very familiar to me once we moved to Sedalia, MO a couple blocks from the tracks. Different shades of green obviously, but to a train-obsessed kid it all looks similar! Haha. -Mike
That's awesome Mike your layout is looking beautiful I am working lot my collection now I am getting back in modeling I also trying get my drivers license
Hi, Taylor. Thank you very much! It feels good to have some productive days and make headway on the layout. I understand taking breaks here and there from modeling. I have done it a few of times…sometimes life gets busy. It’s always there waiting for you when you come back around!
Always glad to see a layout update! You’re scenery start so simply captures the essence of central MO. Your sky color perfectly captures that feel of a hot hazy summer day in the Midwest. Keep it up, always doing good work
I really appreciate that! It’s always nice to hear I’m on the right track when it comes to capturing the look and feel of the prototype. I’ve experimented with different sky colors on previous layouts. I believe this one has been my favorite. I’m hoping that adding the linear photos to the backdrop will add some more life to it. -Mike
I appreciate that! Yes, it took more than a few hours of brainstorming the best option for that. A duck-under was out of the question. I doubt I’ll be a youngster for much longer (haha) and the thought of playing back-bending games of limbo each day wasn’t very appealing!
Thank you! Even a little scenery goes a long way in bringing bare benchwork to life! It has been in my head as a concept, so it’s nice to watch it come together in reality. -Mike
Thank you! We are getting there! I enjoyed your recent October update talking about operations. I’m hoping to get back to that spot soon enough as I get things rebuilt. I have way too many cars sitting on the shelf that need to put back to use! Ha. -Mike
Thanks so much, Andrew! I’m hoping to make some additional headway now that I’m on more of a roll. Not that basement renovations and benchwork aren’t fun…but it’s motivating to see scenes starting to come to life. -Mike
Hi, Ronald! Yes, the Katy units are pretty neat and very eye-catching! I think it makes a perfect railroad to model-but it’s possible I’m just a little biased! Haha.
I would use a 4" to 6" wide strip of thin styrene or plastic For Sale sign painted with the Erie paint. granted it will be wide but the vertical lines will not be next to each other. I believe those thin lines would be easy to hide with a little background painting etc.
Hello! That’s a really good idea. It’s possible I have been overthinking it! I bet having something wide would be fine as long as it’s thin. The other options I was experimenting with- such as wood strips- were coming out a little too thick for my liking.
@@MainTrack I think the thin plastic should work well for you. Glue some round rare earth magnets to the back of the plastic and have them mate into a counter sunk hole in the back drop board. The counter sunk holes should have a washer in them or another magnet. The counter sunk holes will let the plastic lay flat, but be still be easy to remove with the magnets. Good luck and looking forward to how you will fix this.
Hi, Wayne! Thank you for that! I am using Woodland Scenics ballast in the fine size. It’s the same size I use for my track. The light gray comes out looking pretty close to the limestone gravel seen here in Missouri. But, different colors could be blended to create any other shade someone might need. For instance, it seems gravel roads farther out west are a little darker with more browns to them. It might be an issue of trial and error getting the colors just right. I appreciate you tuning in! -Mike
Use grout for gravel roads and parking lots. I lay down glue and apply grout thru a fine screen. Vacuum up excess after it dries and repeat to desired affect. Then finish with alcohol and scenic glue.
Hi, David. That’s an interesting tip. I’m not sure I’ve heard of that technique before- but it sounds like a great idea. I will have to try that one out! -Mike
If you have prototype pictures of the crossing without even a cross buck, I would have a picture of the crossing for anyone to see what a great prototype modeler you are Mike!
Good idea…I will definitely do that, Devin! Nothing like some prototype photos to keep me accountable. Haha! There were some very unusual crossing setups and signals on this route. It’s possible it was the same way with the other Katy lines, but they had been upgraded over the years… and the Sedalia Sub being a secondary line was stuck back in time!
Hello! I appreciate you following along for the progress. With the backdrop, I fashioned the hardboard (same stuff I use for the rest of my backdrops) to a wooden frame. It basically ends up looking like an art canvas in that sense. Then, I have some supports at the back of the layout (leaving a wide enough gap between them for the door). I fastened the magnets onto the supports, and on the backdrop frame itself. With that, they just snap in and out pretty easily. I'm working on an explainer video and hope to have that out soon!
Hello! I have not looked into those, but I will now! I’m certainly interested in any items that’ll help keep the track in place at those spots. My basement is climate controlled, but I’m concerned that over time the benchwork might expand and contract a little bit- knocking the rail connections out of alignment. It sounds like this is something that could help with that! -Mike
@@JackOnTracks- did you purchase them recently and from which retailer? I'm looking at their site and like what I see, Unfortunately, they're out of stock for the moment- so I may be on the waiting list.
you should go the train museum in Corona KS they have locomotives outside and everything that was original back in the day they even redone the depot building but the Watco railroad goes by there
Hello! I do need to make another trip out there sometime soon! I’ve visited a few times in the past, but it has been a while. I’ve heard they’ve added some stuff. I know the volunteers out there work very hard to make it a fantastic museum!
@@MainTrack Yep I haven't been there ever since Covid but it's also good that they bring the community together and do train rides and show the railroad history and gives kids and everyone the chance to learn about the railroad and what was it like back then and now
I sure appreciate that! I have around 20 MKT-painted (green) units and 3 ex-Conrail units. I would think it’s more than enough for now…but there’s always room for more, right?! -Mike
Hi! I sure appreciate that. The auger is by Yelton Models. It’s a 3D print that was very easy to pop together and paint (this was my very first 3D kit). They have quite a few cool grain/ag-type accessories. -Mike
Hello! This auger is from Yelton Models! I love it. It came as a 3D printed unit...I simply cut the sprues off, gave it a spray coat of paint, and it was good to go. I'm looking to acquire some other models from other brands sometime soon. I'll be sure to include those in some future videos!
For the gravel road, may I suggest trying to add a light mix of white sand to the gravel, which might help fill in the gaps? It would, of course, lighten the color a bit, but not too much I think, if you use it sparingly. I have successfully used sifted play sand on my "dirt" parking lot, which I then painted a very light gray/tan (white paint mixed with light gray and tan). Your layout looks great!
Hello! That’s a great idea. I’ve been brainstorming ways to help blend things together with the gravel. This is a new technique I’m using, so it may take some trial and error to get it just right. I really appreciate your compliments on the layout! -Mike
Mike, nice progress! Personally, I am looking forward to your comments/ideas about the bridge. I need to span a doorway into the train room and I'm interested in structure, track alignment, and power cut-off systems. I am also intrigued by your new road construction. I model Nebraska and we have quite a few roads near the tracks.
Hello! I appreciate you watching. I have spent (way too many) hours brainstorming for the best way to bridge that gap! Ha. Most layouts I’ve seen have spans that lift up or out. But- being I’m so tall- my layout is fairly high…which means there’s not enough space to go up with it. My goal is to get the track across and cut to begin with so I can at least get to the other side. I fully anticipate making tweaks and upgrades to it as time goes on. I’ll keep everyone posted!
Would love to see a video of you patching those Conrail GP38's for the MKT. I need to do that as well and could use any tips you have.
Hi! I will be sure to make a video about that! I had patched up some Conrail GP40s from Atlas a year or two ago and released an episode about that. I learned some things during the process, so I’m hoping this second go-around will be even easier.
@@MainTrack back about 30 or more years ago I modeled some of the ICG paint outs for a guy at BN that my dad worked with....was great fun
Congratulations on the beautiful work! Here in Brazil, since we don't have access to as many accessories as you do, we have to be very creative with our models.
I appreciate that! Yes…having access to a lot of accessories can be good, but part of me misses the days when there weren’t as many options and we had to improvise more. These days we can get any item imaginable- but I still enjoy building some things from scratch. I appreciate you watching! -Mike
Love the video Good to see the old BN engines and the old SD-40's BN's and Conrail
Hello, Allen! Thank you for watching! Yes, I’ve got to have some BN in there! I partly blame the BN on my love of the Katy! Ha. I saw plenty of BN when I was a little kid living in Wyoming and southern Missouri. So, I think the green on the Katy looked very familiar to me once we moved to Sedalia, MO a couple blocks from the tracks. Different shades of green obviously, but to a train-obsessed kid it all looks similar! Haha. -Mike
Awesome work, the layout is looking fantastic! 😁
I sure appreciate that! It is nice to finally see scenes make the move from my imagination to reality! -Mike
That's awesome Mike your layout is looking beautiful I am working lot my collection now I am getting back in modeling I also trying get my drivers license
Hi, Taylor. Thank you very much! It feels good to have some productive days and make headway on the layout. I understand taking breaks here and there from modeling. I have done it a few of times…sometimes life gets busy. It’s always there waiting for you when you come back around!
3:54 Great tip!
Always glad to see a layout update! You’re scenery start so simply captures the essence of central MO. Your sky color perfectly captures that feel of a hot hazy summer day in the Midwest. Keep it up, always doing good work
I really appreciate that! It’s always nice to hear I’m on the right track when it comes to capturing the look and feel of the prototype. I’ve experimented with different sky colors on previous layouts. I believe this one has been my favorite. I’m hoping that adding the linear photos to the backdrop will add some more life to it. -Mike
Progress is coming along wonderfully! I like the idea of that swing down section.
I appreciate that! Yes, it took more than a few hours of brainstorming the best option for that. A duck-under was out of the question. I doubt I’ll be a youngster for much longer (haha) and the thought of playing back-bending games of limbo each day wasn’t very appealing!
Coming along nicely
Thank you! Even a little scenery goes a long way in bringing bare benchwork to life! It has been in my head as a concept, so it’s nice to watch it come together in reality. -Mike
Phenomenal work Mike can’t wait to see more
I sure appreciate that! I’ve got plenty to keep me busy in the coming months!
Coming along nicely! Thanks for the update!
Thank you! We are getting there! I enjoyed your recent October update talking about operations. I’m hoping to get back to that spot soon enough as I get things rebuilt. I have way too many cars sitting on the shelf that need to put back to use! Ha. -Mike
Great Progress.
Thanks so much, Chris! It does feel good to have a few productive evenings and see things coming together bit by bit!
It's looking good so far keep up the great work Mike
Thanks so much, Andrew! I’m hoping to make some additional headway now that I’m on more of a roll. Not that basement renovations and benchwork aren’t fun…but it’s motivating to see scenes starting to come to life. -Mike
Hi Mike & it's is Randy and i like yours video is Cool & Thanks Mike & Friends Randy
Hi, Randy. Thank you, friend. I appreciate you tuning in to watch! -Mike
I have a couple MKT GEEPS, NICE
Hi, Ronald! Yes, the Katy units are pretty neat and very eye-catching! I think it makes a perfect railroad to model-but it’s possible I’m just a little biased! Haha.
Looks fantastic Mike!
Thank you Dennis! Cold winter days ahead will mean a lot more time indoors- in the basement- making more progress!
I would use a 4" to 6" wide strip of thin styrene or plastic For Sale sign painted with the Erie paint. granted it will be wide but the vertical lines will not be next to each other. I believe those thin lines would be easy to hide with a little background painting etc.
Hello! That’s a really good idea. It’s possible I have been overthinking it! I bet having something wide would be fine as long as it’s thin. The other options I was experimenting with- such as wood strips- were coming out a little too thick for my liking.
@@MainTrack I think the thin plastic should work well for you. Glue some round rare earth magnets to the back of the plastic and have them mate into a counter sunk hole in the back drop board. The counter sunk holes should have a washer in them or another magnet. The counter sunk holes will let the plastic lay flat, but be still be easy to remove with the magnets. Good luck and looking forward to how you will fix this.
Looks great!
I appreciate that! It is coming along. Now if I can just get to a spot with some more industries, I’ll have a reason to have some actual ops sessions!
Looks great! Love the grain mill and bins. What size ballast are you using for your gravel roads?
Thank you.
Hi, Wayne! Thank you for that! I am using Woodland Scenics ballast in the fine size. It’s the same size I use for my track. The light gray comes out looking pretty close to the limestone gravel seen here in Missouri. But, different colors could be blended to create any other shade someone might need. For instance, it seems gravel roads farther out west are a little darker with more browns to them. It might be an issue of trial and error getting the colors just right. I appreciate you tuning in! -Mike
Use grout for gravel roads and parking lots. I lay down glue and apply grout thru a fine screen. Vacuum up excess after it dries and repeat to desired affect. Then finish with alcohol and scenic glue.
Hi, David. That’s an interesting tip. I’m not sure I’ve heard of that technique before- but it sounds like a great idea. I will have to try that one out! -Mike
Wonderful looking layout so far! Subscribed to follow your progress
Hello! I do appreciate the kind words. Thanks for tuning in and joining us! -Mike
If you have prototype pictures of the crossing without even a cross buck, I would have a picture of the crossing for anyone to see what a great prototype modeler you are Mike!
Good idea…I will definitely do that, Devin! Nothing like some prototype photos to keep me accountable. Haha! There were some very unusual crossing setups and signals on this route. It’s possible it was the same way with the other Katy lines, but they had been upgraded over the years… and the Sedalia Sub being a secondary line was stuck back in time!
Look forward to watching your new layout come together. Im interested in the magnets holding up the backdrop. How does it work?
Hello! I appreciate you following along for the progress. With the backdrop, I fashioned the hardboard (same stuff I use for the rest of my backdrops) to a wooden frame. It basically ends up looking like an art canvas in that sense. Then, I have some supports at the back of the layout (leaving a wide enough gap between them for the door). I fastened the magnets onto the supports, and on the backdrop frame itself. With that, they just snap in and out pretty easily. I'm working on an explainer video and hope to have that out soon!
Have you looked at the ModelTech Pro-Track rail aligners for your drop-down it is really nice stuff.
Hello! I have not looked into those, but I will now! I’m certainly interested in any items that’ll help keep the track in place at those spots. My basement is climate controlled, but I’m concerned that over time the benchwork might expand and contract a little bit- knocking the rail connections out of alignment. It sounds like this is something that could help with that! -Mike
@@MainTrack I'm using them on my free-mo Build.
@@JackOnTracks- did you purchase them recently and from which retailer? I'm looking at their site and like what I see, Unfortunately, they're out of stock for the moment- so I may be on the waiting list.
you should go the train museum in Corona KS they have locomotives outside and everything that was original back in the day they even redone the depot building but the Watco railroad goes by there
Hello! I do need to make another trip out there sometime soon! I’ve visited a few times in the past, but it has been a while. I’ve heard they’ve added some stuff. I know the volunteers out there work very hard to make it a fantastic museum!
@@MainTrack Yep I haven't been there ever since Covid but it's also good that they bring the community together and do train rides and show the railroad history and gives kids and everyone the chance to learn about the railroad and what was it like back then and now
Hey Mike how many trains of MKT and conraill do you have And I love your layout is beautiful and wonderful ❤❤
I sure appreciate that! I have around 20 MKT-painted (green) units and 3 ex-Conrail units. I would think it’s more than enough for now…but there’s always room for more, right?! -Mike
Nice layout and video. Who makes that auger? Thanks
Hi! I sure appreciate that. The auger is by Yelton Models. It’s a 3D print that was very easy to pop together and paint (this was my very first 3D kit). They have quite a few cool grain/ag-type accessories. -Mike
where did you get that grain auger ? thank you
Hello! This auger is from Yelton Models! I love it. It came as a 3D printed unit...I simply cut the sprues off, gave it a spray coat of paint, and it was good to go. I'm looking to acquire some other models from other brands sometime soon. I'll be sure to include those in some future videos!
@@MainTrack thank you for the info, i will check them out.
Hi
Hello, Daren!
Looks great!
Hello! I appreciate that. Thanks for stopping by to watch! -Mike