My 4x8 x 2 HO Garage Layout Walk Around

[@FredE528]

See updated walk around here: th-cam.com/video/5XH_2O4f6Tk/w-d-xo.html

[@frankfossi629]

hey ,if anyone else is searching for how to build a model railroad layout try Megarno Railroad Membership Magician (should be on google have a look ) ? Ive heard some pretty good things about it and my brother in law got excellent success with it.

[@FredE528]

Thanks, will check it out.

[@NYandAtlantic]

Thanks I will hopefully find the locomotives that are near me if not don’t know who I’ll use on my layout

[@FredE528]

If you are new to hobby, I’d suggest you not get too ‘hung up’ on making it perfectly match the real railroad. On a 4x8 stick with the smaller equipment. Modern railroad equipment is long and not really built for 22” radius curves. At least that’s my opinion. I only use 4 axle locos and 40’ or 50’ cars.
If you don’t have any equipment, consider N scale as option. You can get a lot more on a 4x8. Check out DYI and Digital channel. He’s very good and has good advice videos.
There are so many things to learn about the hobby. I made plenty of mistakes and did modifications as I grew in the hobby. I think most longer term model railroaders are still learning.

[@FredE528]

youtube.com/@DIYDigitalRailroad.

[@klbird]

Happy to see a traditional 4X8 and its evolution into a larger version. My first layout,65 years ago, was a 4X8 with 18" radius Atlas track, a Varney 0-4 -0 and ten total cars with 1 caboose. I still have those original cars but the 0-4-0 died years ago. Nicely done layout that brings back pleasant memories to me.

[@FredE528]

Thanks Ken. As a kid, I didn’t have a 4x8 just put track on floor. I too still have original switcher and cars but it doesn’t work either. When I started the layout I had no idea I’d get ‘hooked’ on this hobby. Be safe 😷

[@Petemonster62]

@@FredE528 - Fred, didn't you get dust & lint built-up in your locomotive's mechanism by setting up HO track on the floor. Perhaps you used the Marx HO roadbed track?

[@FredE528]

I got my first little HO train set in about 1958. 2 axle switcher and 5 cars. Hardwood floors in our rental house. Atlas brass track with brass joiners. Probably wasn’t must longer that 5’. Tiny. I added some straight pieces in next couple of years. We moved to smaller place few years later and I lost interest and it went into a box.

[@Petemonster62]

@@FredE528 - I am glad for you that you have gotten back in the hobby!

[@FredE528]

Thank you. It keeps me challenged. 🤬

[@terryf5131]

Great layout. I'm so ready to finally get out my trains..I used to read and re-read all the model railroader magazines as a kid...and these guys had dream tools ..like a Dremel!! Now that I have a full blown wood shop...(and 3 dremels) it's time to build a layout for my little boy. Very inspiring vid..thanks.

[@FredE528]

Thanks. I didn’t have a Dremel when I built the layout but decided I needed one when I saw the battery operated ones. I’ve used it a few times on layout to cut track rails when I did a bit of remodeling. I used it a lot when I installed small fence. I was DC originally but have now switched to DCC. I have a toggle switch so I can switch back and forth. Good luck with the layout. I’m planning to build new one in basement of condo recently purchased as summer home up in New Hampshire where my daughter lives. .

[@haroldalexis4200]

Hi Fred very impressed with your layout work. Fine craftsmanship & artistry that makes it work, well done. ☺🚥👍🚧🚧🚞

[@FredE528]

Thank You Harold.

[@Modeltrains]

Fred, your layout looks pretty nice. Lots going on in 4x16. It looks like you've got the makings of a nice branch line on the shelf too. Don't let the frustrations get to you. We've all been there. Cheers, Kevin.

[@FredE528]

Thanks Kevin. Yes, when I get things working on the main layout I’m hoping to add a few inches to the width of the wall shelf and continue. Addicted I guess. Maybe this Fall. Thanks for your comment. Be safe.😷

[@EricSmith-ve7qi]

Very nice layout!! Looks great! Thanks for sharing..cant wait to see all the power in motion!!

[@FredE528]

Check out my ‘Running Trains’ playlist or ‘Sometimes I hate my Layout’ playlist for trains running. Or at least, trying to run.

[@thefrase7884]

Excellent layout. I started with a 4x8 and now I’m up to a 10x24. The best thing is that you’re never done and you can always add on. Thank you for sharing this.

[@FredE528]

Thank you. There’s a more up to date video on my home page where I talk about some improvements I plan this Fall/Winter. I can’t get much bigger in the garage but I’m starting pretty big layout in our New Hampshire condo. We evacuate Texas in summer and spent time with our Daughter in NH.

[@FredE528]

I checked out your channel to see your layout but was disappointed to see that you don’t have videos. 😩

[@thomasvranich887]

Excellent job on making the most of your space with beautifully detailed scenes, thank you!

[@FredE528]

Thanks Thomas. I jammed in a lot. I built this in two phases so track layout is a bit weird. Be safe out there😷

[@TheKurtsPlaceChannel]

Very nicely put together video and very entertaining as well. Thanks for posting this.

[@FredE528]

Thanks Kurt.

[@hejustleft]

Bravo.Bravo. So much detail, and an amazing layout for a small platform.

[@FredE528]

Thank You. I’ve had fun building it.

[@SouthBrooklynRR]

Fred, You have put more into this layout than I have on mine. You have really been thinking out of the box. It is just a great looking layout, it has rhyme and reason. thanks for this.

[@FredE528]

Thanks for your nice comment Big Bill.

[@georgiasunbelt]

You’ve packed a lot of RR action in a small space but it doesn’t look crowded. Did a great job 👍🏽....now train running time 😊

[@FredE528]

Thanks Anthony. Hope to do video with running the trains soon.

[@modelrailer]

What an awesome layout brother! Very operational. Love it!

[@FredE528]

Thanks a lot.

[@herbertrodriquez6456]

This is one cool layout, nice job. This is giving me some inspiration. Thanks for sharing.

[@FredE528]

Thanks for comment. I’m really surprised by the high number on this video in last week. It’s relatively old. How did you come across it? You might want to check out my 10 Best videos Playlist. Be safe😷

[@herbertrodriquez6456]

@@FredE528 Thanks, Happy modeling

[@ChannelWright]

Even at this stage, you managed to fit a lot of operational activity (fun) into the space that you had.

[@FredE528]

Yes, there were a lot of options. I added more options with 1’ extensions on each side. But this layout has been retired and I have a new one on same foundation. It has tunnels, bridges, and a mountain. Not many industries however. Thanks for your comment. 😀

[@arifakyuz7673]

Wow, looks like you EXCELLENTLY utilized the space!

[@FredE528]

Thank you. There is an updated video on my main page if you are interested. Be safe😷

[@MoosesWorkshop]

Very cool. Been following for a few weeks now. I got a 4 x 8 but done around the edge of a small room instead of in the center.

[@FredE528]

Thanks for following and your comment. Put it on wheels so you can get to far side. Unless your arms are way longer than mine, you can not reach across 4’ to work on the layout. I know from my poor planning the hard way. I decided that crawling on top of the layout as not good idea so added wheels.

[@MoosesWorkshop]

@@FredE528 i think you got it pictured wrong. I got 2 feet wide on one wall and 2 on another connected by small extensions on the ends.

[@trippylummox274]

I know this video is older, but I still have to comment on what a great layout this is! I'm just getting my own going, and am focusing on a lot of industry, but also want to do an L extension down the road. Thanks for sharing and giving me some inspiration.

[@FredE528]

Thanks for your comment. I expanded this layout since this video, here’s updated video. th-cam.com/video/vEZkgBxcS88/w-d-xo.html
Just last month I started dismantling this layout to start a new 6x16 layout in the Fall. Here’s the plan which you might find interesting. th-cam.com/video/m4NMOvCOVgE/w-d-xo.html
I live in NH during the summer near our daughter and her family. Our condo has full basement so I’m building a big layout here.

[@alcopower5710]

Love the layout Fred......fantastic attention to detail.

[@FredE528]

Thanks. I just keep finding stuff on eBay to add. Also see things on other TH-cam videos I like and try to do. I’m retired and have time to work on it when I get in mood. It’s been built on last 3 years. Don’t work in it when garage is too hot or too cool.

[@alcopower5710]

Fred E Model Railroad ......I’m caught in between as my current house doesn’t really have the room for a layout so I’ve bought up a bunch of Kato track that I can assemble and take down quickly. I’ve thought about around the room shelf type layout but I hesitate at that idea because I’d love to buy a home in a more rural area. But anyhoo......love your layout and I see some good ideas that I may use when the time comes. You earned a new sub.

[@tracynation239]

An excellent video. Hello from the Tracy Mountain Railway in Colorado. ♡ T.E.N.

[@FredE528]

Thanks Tracy. You might like my Top 10 Videos in my playlist. Be safe. 😷

[@ashokmohanvipula6667]

excellent detailing i would have loved to see them moving though ! Thanks !

[@FredE528]

Thanks for watching. There are several videos of moving trains in the ‘Running Trains’ playlist’.

[@jasonmccarthy820]

Very nice! working on finishing a 4x8 for my son now that he's old enough to quit tearing the switches up lol.

[@FredE528]

Jason, Thanks. I subscribed and look forward to some videos. 👍👍

[@hovermotion]

Superb layout..like the transformer wagon...

[@FredE528]

Thanks. I can’t run it all way around the layout. Too tall to fit under the signals and walkover the track at one end. Opps.

[@alanz5108]

Good to see my recommended page has blessed me once again

[@FredE528]

So, I guess you liked it? There is updated version. Checkout my playlists: ‘My10 Favorites’ if you get a chance. Be safe😷

[@TMandN]

Wow, full of detail. I like this!

[@FredE528]

Thanks for the kind words. Be safe out there😷

[@DowntownTrains]

Awsome detail with the factorys and mills

[@FredE528]

Thanks. I like the industry models from Walthers.

[@DowntownTrains]

@@FredE528 Me too, i'm planning on getting some soon

[@MMRails]

Thanks for the tour. Great layout. Clean and tidy too. Makes a difference.

[@FredE528]

It some point I’m going to do some weathering but not yet. Thanks for comments.

[@MMRails]

@@FredE528 Wow! Over 52K views! That's crazy! Good for you. Back when you were just a young whipper snapper. (Date of comment - Oct 29, 2020) I'll come back in a year and check the count.

[@FredE528]

I can’t hardy believe this count. It just exploded a few weeks ago for unknown reason. After noticing the activity, I put link to updated walk around video but it doesn’t seem to be used. Thanks for comment. Be safe 😷

[@MMRails]

@@FredE528 Wow! 97K views, 1K likes and 250 comments. Awesome! I’ll check back in another year.

[@FredE528]

It’s crazy. At its high point, my channel was getting 3,000 per day. Lately, my range per day is 300-400. Activity on this video is way down but it almost always my top video when I look at stats. I have no idea why. I find it hard to believe there would be that many people interest in my layout. Something fishy going on.
Several months ago, TH-cam starting putting ads on some of my videos. Change in their policy I guess or the activity on this video attracted them. So about a month ago I decided to monetize my channel. So I applied and was approved. I expect to make $20 this month. ‘I’m in the money now’… Ha! I was curious about how it works and how much they pay.
I’m going to do a video on this in week or so. I feel a bit guilty about forcing ads, even skippable ones, on my loyal followers. I’m thinking about not doing it on video for first week. It’s possible to control monetization on each video. I’m curious to see if ads still show up.
Anyway, thanks for the comment!

[@ronstrainsandmore]

Great layout you’ve done an outstanding job on it and I really like the southern locomotive

[@FredE528]

Thanks for your nice comment. Be safe 😷

[@ronstrainsandmore]

Fred E Model Railroad you stay safe also I have a great TH-cam channel check it out I think you’ll enjoy it buddy

[@northpennvalleysteamrailroad]

Nice. Lots of buildings and trees

[@FredE528]

Thanks for your comment. I might have gotten carried away with the buildings. 😀 Great deals on eBay lead me into this. I actually have more unbuilt models so thinking about expansion. I like industrial theme rather the mountains but thinking about some elevation in next layout. Be safe out there.😷

[@paulsanjurjo4390]

That's a great job of the details on this layout! I give it a 99% out of 100%.

[@FredE528]

Thanks Paul. 😀 It’s all just off the shelf stuff. There’s an updated video on my main page. Even this is a bit out of date as I’ve remodeled it to be double track main.

[@9501599]

A nice looking layout lots of interesting stuff to shunt, check out and to roll wagins in.

[@FredE528]

Thanks Guy. I’m now trying to automate trains on layout loading coal, loading grain, delivering freight, and delivering oil. Be safe😷

[@mikewhite767]

Awesome layout and locomotives thank you for showing us your video!

[@FredE528]

Thanks Michael. There’s an updated video on my main page if interested.

[@CurtBergStillLoves2PlayTrains]

This is the video I was talking about the original 4x8 layout. Still making the TH-cam highlight videos. You're a celebrity!

[@FredE528]

This video is very popular even after all this time since I published it. I did 2 update videos but this one still gets a lots of views each month.

[@CurtBergStillLoves2PlayTrains]

That's amazing. You never know what will be popular. Very interesting...@@FredE528

[@thatoneguy611]

You made great use of that space! It looks amazing

[@FredE528]

Thank you. 😀

[@BryanLStene]

So you know. Underwood, ND. Has it own open top coal mine. It uses some coal and ships out loads of flyash. The ashes from the burning of coal. Flyash is shipped in 2 bay hoopers. If that helps, having the coal loader next to power plant. It works

[@FredE528]

Good to know. I have some cute videos using the coal loader. One is in My 10 Favorites Playlist. Thanks for your comment.

[@Crookedriverandeasternrr]

Very nice overview of the layout. You do nice work

[@FredE528]

Thank you. I’m just simple guy trying to do something with free time in retirement. Started a few years ago just to have something to build. I’d enjoy running train more if not for DCC electronic issues. Not many problems on DC but no sound.

[@jeffstrains4014]

Nice layout great use of space!

[@FredE528]

Thanks Jeff. There’s an updated version on my main page.

[@glensiu2315]

Great detail video, Thank you for sharing

[@FredE528]

Thanks Glen. Updated video on my main page. Checkout my Top 10 in playlist. Be safe out there😷

[@1JUSTGOTLUCKY1]

nice layout! love the trees...very realistic!!

[@FredE528]

Thanks. JTT evergreen trees from Hobby Lobby with 40% coupon. Deal! Be safe out there.😷

[@disturbed1954]

Very nice layout, really detailed!

[@FredE528]

Thanks David.

[@tonyromano6220]

Ahh old school, I wondered where you got old equipment! Nice little pike.

[@FredE528]

On the original layout, some of the track and turnouts are quite old, 😀. Some from when I was a kid, 60 years ago. Some from when I built small layout for my kids when they were young. Some older stuff from eBay. And some new flex track.

[@tonyromano6220]

@@FredE528 I have brass track from the 60s! And 2 million other train items! Doing RC trucks and guns now, trains again soon. On30 I think.....condo, no room.

[@FredE528]

TWO million. That’s a lot. 🤥. As we say in Texas. Keep the gun holstered, Pard. No offens.

[@tonyromano6220]

@@FredE528 two thousand......
I lived in Houston for about 35 years!

[@FredE528]

Good for you. I know several people that escaped Houston after retirement. 😀

[@TSemasFl]

Looks really nice, good use of the space for it's size

[@FredE528]

Thanks 😀 I packed a lot of track and buildings in the space for sure.

[@TSemasFl]

@@FredE528 Yes you did, and it looks well thought out. I'm like you, lots I want to do, but not so much space to do it in. You did great with it.

[@FredE528]

Thanks again. 😀

[@FredE528]

If you have limited space, N scale might be option. Too small for me to work with however.

[@kickitt24]

The buildings look really good

[@FredE528]

Thanks 😀

[@SleeTheSloth]

Sweet model railroad. Nice job!

[@FredE528]

Thank you. You can see 4 trains running on this link. th-cam.com/video/xfhB7vrplQY/w-d-xo.html

[@NYandAtlantic]

Excellent layout I did a simple oval with spurs not sure of era either yet

[@FredE528]

Thanks 😀. I started with original 4x8 just to have something to do. There’s a video named ‘History of the Layout’ in playlist of same name. I’ve gotten hooked of this hobby and just keep adding to this layout.

[@thefutureofyesterday8136]

Good stuff Fred. 👍

[@FredE528]

Thanks. Cool TH-cam handle. 👍

[@nscalekevin]

Very cool layout

[@FredE528]

Thanks Kevin. Question: The views on this video have exploded in last couple of weeks. I don’t know why? Can you tell me how you came across it? Thanks. Fred

[@jaysgood10]

Man that giant lawnmower seems out of place.

[@FredE528]

Yes. I haven’t had a chance to miniaturize the mower. 😀

[@drewzdrew27]

fantastic stuff! Thanks for sharing.

[@FredE528]

Glad you liked it, Thames for your nice comment.

[@mikeluther60]

It's neat to see a mix of brass and nickel track used together.

[@FredE528]

The brass track is at least 39 years old. Just started with what I had from years ago. All nickel on new layout. Thanks for comment.

[@elleryparsons5766]

Nicely Done I like it 👍

[@FredE528]

Thank you Ellery.

[@FredE528]

Check out the updated version on my main page.

[@BALD8BIL]

Fred 4x16 foot layout is incredible and I bet you would love a bigger layout lol

[@FredE528]

Thanks Billy. I’m already slowly collecting stuff for my future shelf layout against the wall. Will remove existing 6” background shelf and put in some thing about 20” deep. 🤩

[@markzimmerman8563]

Nice lay out. Will be better when you get trains running. Good luck.

[@FredE528]

Thanks Mark. Check out my playlist for ‘Running Trains’ and the ‘Sometimes I hate my Layout’ series. Be safe out there😷

[@kickitt24]

Love it, you’ve been busy 👍🏼

[@FredE528]

Thanks. This is really old video and lot of changes since this video. In fact I started tearing it down last Spring. I’ll decide what to do with it yet this Fall.

[@trevorgwelch7412]

Absolutely Perfect , Now Lets Expand It To 8 by 12

[@FredE528]

I was planning to rebuild it to 6’x16’ and loose the background shelf. But we bought condo with full basement so just minor improvements to this layout and start planning for new basement. Sort of an addictive hobby for old retired guy like me. Be safe out there😷

[@davidsheriff8989]

Like it , here's a tip : put your sidings parallel to the track which will give you more space and look more realistic

[@FredE528]

I did some of this on new section of the layout. Thanks for watching. Be safe out there😷

[@johnsaunders1435]

Very nice work! I guess if one 4x8 is good, then 2 must be better? Thanks for opening that door to me as my dream layout calls for a good long straight stretch of double main lines. One little detail im hanging up on as i dwell in other costly interests is scale. Im not sure if i want ho or n. I want to model the mojave desert from san Bernardino to kingman.

[@FredE528]

Yes, more is better. 😀. This is pretty old video. I expanded it to 6x16 in 2022.

[@FredE528]

I did HO because I have old HO equipment. You can do a lot more with N scale if you haven’t already committed. Lot easier to do mountains and tunnels. Takes a lot of run length to get HO up and down 5”. N scale is cheaper but harder to build buildings due to small sizes. At least for my old eyes. 😳

[@Stussmeister]

A very nice layout and video. I'm planning on expanding my 4 x 8 layout into a 4 x (nearly) 10 layout with a yard, reversing loops, and industry sidings. I don't think I'll put mine in the garage, though, as I don't think it would stay very warm in there during the winter months.

[@FredE528]

Thanks for your nice comment. I don’t like my layout in the garage but it’s only place I have for it. The temperature varies a lot from summer to winter as well as the humidity. It gets dusty even with door closed most of the time. These are just issues I have to deal with but don’t cause big problems. My big problems are turnouts with dead frogs or insufficient wiring on the original layout. This started as DC and locos ran fine. Not so fine after DCC conversation. I know how to fix these issues but it involves soldering and working underneath the layout. Two of my least favorite aspects of the hobby. So I’m working on my JMRI scripts instead. Be safe out there and best wishes on your expansion.

[@Stussmeister]

@@FredE528 Thank you for your kind words :). I'm still very much a novice when it comes to model railroading (I've never picked up a soldering iron), though I think I've figured out a wiring configuration that would enable me to put in reversing loops. Moreover, while I've measured the space for the layout in my basement multiple times, I'll definitely need help putting the actual table together. I also plan on using DCC on my layout so I can run multiple trains, though all of my turnouts will likely be manual.

[@FredE528]

I expect you have watched many videos on building model railroading. Lots of information available. You can probably get by without soldering. Just get rail joiners with feeder wire attached and use wire connectors. I just had to solder wire directly to track when I failed to have enough feeders and to attach wire to my switch motors. There’s video early in my new expansion series showing how I build my table. Pretty simple if you have experience with power tools. It does have to be complex. Just make sure you have room to walk all the walk around it.

[@Stussmeister]

@@FredE528 I have watched quite a few videos, and have also reached out to more experienced model railroaders, including some folks at my local model railroad club. The track I'll be using has rail joiners with attached feeder wires available, though I'll probably have to strip part of the wires so I can connect them with my reversing units.
I'll definitely have to check out the video you mentioned, thank you for letting me know :). I have factored enough space around my layout so I can comfortably walk around it, though I'm not very experienced when it comes to power tools.

[@FredE528]

You’ll be fine. Take your time. 👍

[@hobbycow5346]

Nicely done! Especially for a 4x8! I have the same Walthers Freight Terminal and Power company which I converted to a tool factory. My Ho layout is about 6 x 10 with a staging yard tacked on the side. videos on my page if you want to see. I fully lit mine with lighting from ebay...very cheap. i did a lot of weathering using mostly pastels and dry brushing acrylics.

[@FredE528]

I looked at your layout and subbed. Really nice. Recommend to others.👍👍

[@brookingsbeachcomber]

lots of cool details, new sub too

[@FredE528]

Thanks Steve. You might enjoy on updated walk around on my main page. Thanks for comment.

[@modelrailroadadventureswit6347]

Fred the layout looks great! ! You have made some significant progress lately. What did you do for your roads? Paint product??

[@FredE528]

Glitter sheets. Your question prompted me to do a video. Thanks for question.

[@jimsmoter4510]

Enjoyed the update. Thanks

[@FredE528]

Thanks, glad you liked it Jim.

[@dcctrain]

Well done! 👍

[@FredE528]

Thanks. Be safe out there😷

[@dcctrain]

@@FredE528 Thank you! You too.

[@markofthenorth8918]

Love the train layout I have some videos of mine mine is still coming along love your channel.

[@FredE528]

Thanks Mark. Looks like you have multiple scales.

[@j.sterling9167]

Pillsbury factory needs a dough boy figure on the roof.

[@FredE528]

That would be cute. I have some Woodland Scenics roofers that I’m planning to put on the roof. Thanks for watching. Be safe😷

[@secretagent4204]

You did pretty good it looks very nice

[@FredE528]

Thank you for the kind words.

[@secretagent4204]

Your welcome

[@secretagent4204]

I'm trying to build my 4x5 layout

[@FredE528]

Good for you. Are you doing HO or N scale?

[@secretagent4204]

I'm doing ho scale

[@garygerard4290]

my Dad use to HO model railroad. I remember the GP9, that's the old color scheme for Southern Pacific, the younger viewers here will ask, 'What's Southern Pacific? ha ha

[@FredE528]

Thanks for your comment Gary. I really love the sound and color on my SP GP9 Black Widow. Southern, Northern, Western, and Union Pacific. Probably more ... Pacific than I can think of now. It’s truly amazing how many ‘fallen flags’ there are today. Consolidation of the railroad industry. Did your Dad have a large layout? How long ago? I just got into the hobby in after I retired. Be safe out there.😷

[@FredE528]

Sounds like good memories. Lot of work involved in your Dads layout. Only eBay purchases go on my layout. The MRR technology has changed so much since your Dads time. Just amazing electrics these days. I’ve got quite the span of technology on my layout. Brass Atlas switches from 60 years ago when I was a kid to JMRI software and Arduino. Well, almost to Arduino. See ‘Sometimes I Hate my Layout Part 5’. Your Dad had a wood stove in his garage, I need an air conditioner. Haha. Thanks for sharing and be safe it’s not over yet.😷

[@garygerard4290]

ya Fred, it's not over yet.
I subbed and will check out some more of your videos

[@FredE528]

I have a bunch of videos. They are organized pretty well in the playlists. You might like the slide show on original 4x8 in ‘History of the Layout’ playlist. Shows my ‘merger’ start.

[@beeble2003]

Southern Pacific? It's the area of ocean between Chile and Australia! 😉

[@dmpdetroit]

Very nice layout

[@FredE528]

Thanks. Live in Detroit?

[@FredE528]

Also, check out my Introduction on main page. Newer view of layout.

[@dmpdetroit]

Fred E Model Railroad I used to but left to join the Navy. Now live in Florida. It’s like living in Michigan again.

[@FredE528]

Why like Michigan? Weather sure not similar.

[@dmpdetroit]

Fred E Model Railroad everyone here is from Michigan or Chicago

[@tycotrains]

Awesome layout

[@FredE528]

Thank you. 😀. Here’s link to latest video review of my layout. th-cam.com/video/vEZkgBxcS88/w-d-xo.html

[@rickywilliams7217]

What did you used to make the roads? Also what type of glue you used for the rocks? Thanks

[@FredE528]

There information on roads: th-cam.com/video/O0Gdp5ZfJFA/w-d-xo.html. I cut paper patterns first then cut the glitter sheets from the patterns.
The rocks in corners of original layout were glued to underlying styrofoam with construction adhesive. The rocks in corners of new layout are shaper sheet glued with Elmer’s.

[@john-paulnagel2732]

Nice Layout!! You Deserve it!

[@FredE528]

Thank you John-Paul. 😀.

[@FredE528]

If you have time, check out the updated walk around video if you have not done so. th-cam.com/video/5XH_2O4f6Tk/w-d-xo.html

[@dennisb-trains23]

Nice video. Thanks for sharing.

[@FredE528]

Thanks Dennis. Newer version on my main page.

[@dennisb-trains23]

@@FredE528 thanks 😊

[@elleryparsons2433]

Install 2 Switches the Join the 2 Tables Wa La I think that Shall Help your Layout.

[@FredE528]

I did this eventually. I tore down this layout and started over from blank benchwork. Size is still 6x16 but completely different design.

[@elleryparsons2433]

Nothing Wrong With That change Will Freshing up Your Layout.

[@lancomedic]

I like how you got all the industry into such a small space. What is the purpose of calling it a 4X8 X2 instead of a 4X16? Is that to get around some type of spousal zoning agreement for layout size? Also what's with that shelf layout happening in the background? Looks interesting, would like to see how that progresses.

[@FredE528]

Fred, how’d you guess the reason for the title? Smart. 😀. But actually I knew from TH-cam analytics that I was getting hits on ‘4x8 HO’ so wanted to keep this in the title. And it is really just two 4x8s screwed together. Check out my playlist ‘New Layout Planning’, Decision Point Part 2 and then newest video Special Announcement. This will insight into the background shelf. Be safe out there😷

[@tonyromano6220]

Because it is 2 layouts connected.

[@tonyromano6220]

5’ wide works much better, wider turns.

[@FredE528]

For sure. On my new layout design, I was planning 6’ wide on casters. Push it away from wall and just have 3’ reach on either side. But the new plan is discarded and I’ll do modifications to existing layout. This is explained in latest video. Thanks for comment and be safe😷

[@mp5clone679]

looks good with the exception of those UGLY Atlas switch machines

[@FredE528]

You are so right. I will not use them on next layout that I’m designing. Thanks for comment and be safe out there😷

[@FredE528]

I’m not expert on the track but I’ll probably stay with Atlas track and Peco dcc friendly turnouts. A lot of MRR guys recommend code 83 but personally I don’t care. I haven’t even seen code 83. As far as switch control, it really depends on how many turnouts you plan and how much money you want to spend. I ended up with the Circuitron ‘Smails’ because they are easy to connect to dcc. They are videos in my dcc journey playlist. There are other switch motors and suggest you search TH-cam. There are good comparisons. I’m getting feedback for one guy recommending cheap servos with microprocessor like an Arduino. But that involves lot of complexity. I’m still fighting with my Arduino with IR sensors. I’ll get it. Best wishes on your layout and be safe out there.😷

[@Petemonster62]

Doesn't Atlas make a switch machine that mounts under the layout board, beneath the turnout?

[@FredE528]

Yes. Atlas makes these and I bought one. Couldn’t figure how to extend the arm through my installed 1” foam.

[@FredE528]

Check this out. th-cam.com/video/0Sff2Ax39QE/w-d-xo.html

[@krakenfilms4896]

Hey I was thinking about making an HO railroad with my dad. Do you think I could fit it in a 3x6 foot space? I’m new to this

[@FredE528]

That’s pretty small for HO, but one loop is possible. Can you do N-Scale?

[@krakenfilms4896]

Fred E Model Railroad Yes, I think I could but we already have some HO scale props. Thanks!

[@FredE528]

If you do ho then get small loco because radius on end curve will be about 18 inches. It will be minimum. Personally I’d go with N and not try to use what ho you have if just buildings. Note: you need good eyes and steady hands to build N models.

[@FredE528]

Suggest you look at track plans for small ho and n scale layout on web if you haven’t.

[@FredE528]

As I think about this again. 18 inch radius might cause track to over hang 36 wide board if you use solid curved track. I used flex track on curves so I could tighten it up. Flex track isn’t for beginners however.

[@garrettsubproductions8705]

You should add a train signal that would look really cool

[@FredE528]

Not sure what you mean? HO scale crossing signal or something else?

[@frederickthompson8686]

Nice layout. Well "composed." I would like to see you weather the buildings and rolling stock for greater realism.

[@FredE528]

Thanks for your comment Frederick. Yes, you are right, they would look better. But that takes more skill than I have. Besides, not much is realistic on my layout. I’m done videos of my fresh new layout plan 6x16. What you saw was two 4x8 ‘patched’ together. New one is not prototypical but I like a lot of train running. I’ll use better track turnouts this time!
I think you might like my ‘Railroad Drama Series’ in the Playlist section. Just plain Fred. 😀

[@frederickthompson8686]

@@FredE528 Okay, "plain" Fred! It's still a terrific layout and my compliments on a job well done. Looking forward to phase 2!

[@FredE528]

Thanks

[@alm930]

Nice layout but the garage is too neat. Something is wrong here :-)

[@FredE528]

LOL. Only when doing a video. I did have epoxy paint installed on the garage floor. I love this stuff. Did a brief video on it. Thanks for comment. 😀

[@RdWarrior]

I am having trouble getting a good layout with lots of track on my 4x8 benchwork. Your layout is an excellent example of what I am searching for. is there any way I might get a diagram of your track plan if you are willing to share it. Also, what is your minimum curve radius? I want to run passenger cars, and have to be concerned about curves,

[@FredE528]

Sorry, I don’t have an actual track plan. I did this video for you that might be of help.
Original 4x8 Description
th-cam.com/video/EZAn6r8F7tY/w-d-xo.html

[@northlandrider5396]

How about some wee base jumpers lining up at the edge of your layout (which is great).

[@FredE528]

😀 Funny. You in New Zealand?

[@northlandrider5396]

@@FredE528 Yep!

[@sunnysiderails397]

Nice looking layout!!!

[@FredE528]

Thank you. 😀. I watched several of your BNSF videos. Beautiful work. 👍👍👍

[@sunnysiderails397]

@@FredE528 Thanks for the kind words on the videos, making some new videos this weekend! Enjoy your day!

[@DansGrandValley]

Very nice!!

[@FredE528]

Thanks Dan. Flat land. 😀

[@stanleydomalewski8497]

WOW, Very Nice !

[@FredE528]

Thanks 😀. This layout is gone now. I’m working on completely new layout here in SanAntonio.

[@ZebraContent]

This layout looks great! Is that tar paper you used for the roads?

[@FredE528]

They are glitter sheers from Hobby Lobby. Here’s link to video I did on them. th-cam.com/video/O0Gdp5ZfJFA/w-d-xo.html

[@FredE528]

Thanks 😀 Here’s how the layout looks now. th-cam.com/video/FuQxnUQqvK8/w-d-xo.html

[@markfarrell2594]

Is there a layout plan for this ?

[@FredE528]

Sorry Mark but I didn’t do an actual track plan on this layout. I watched a lot of videos and looked at the old Atlas track plans book I had from years past. Then i just started temporarily laying out track to get what I liked. It took me many hours to settle on the final layout.
Here is a link to the most recent video on the 6x16 expanded layout. th-cam.com/video/vEZkgBxcS88/w-d-xo.htmlsi=fNKYH_KZsE-KbKPH
This layout is now gone and replaced with a completely different 6x16 layout. Here’s video on new layout in Texas. th-cam.com/video/-_RJzXa82Z8/w-d-xo.htmlsi=m7njiMj9NweVNAY8

[@antonbruce1241]

Is it just me, the camera angels, or are you running a mix of brass and nickle silver track?

[@FredE528]

It’s not an optical illusion or your eyes. It’s real honest to goodness brass track on some of my original 4x8 layout.. 😀 Some of it is 60 years old from when I was a kid and some is 30 years old from when my son was a kid. Some I got off eBay cheap.
I started this layout just to have something to do and I thought my grandkids might enjoy the ‘old timers’ toy train. 😀 . There’s a slide show video in the ‘History of the Layout’ playlist explaining this. Grandkids just wanted to race them around the track. I got hooked on the hobby. Now I do not let them touch it. 😀 They are still to young to use it, Recommend age14+, right? 👨🏼‍🦳. I show them the printing on the box. I’m not going to be GrandPa of the year.

[@Vaderd2k926]

Lol. The Continental Mills Corp has been renamed Centennial Mills after a hostile takeover. I see you hadn’t heard yet. 😂

[@FredE528]

Funny. Sometimes I’m surprised at what comes out of my mouth when I listen to the video. But “close enough”. 🤭🤭

[@Vaderd2k926]

Fred E Model Railroad LOL I just got a kick out of it. 😁

[@FredE528]

Check out the grain cars at 00.31 on my latest video. The take-over company has changed the car names already.

[@Vaderd2k926]

Fred E Model Railroad well that explains a lot. 😁

[@beeble2003]

@@FredE528 They've changed the business, too! That hopper is actually for something like sand or cement, not grain. Grain hoppers are longer, because grain isn't as heavy as cement, and they load through long hatches that run the length of the car, rather than circular hatches.

[@NYandAtlantic]

How did you build your rail yard im just starting out I’m only able to do 4x8 right now. I have NY and Atlantic close to my house but cannot find a NY and Atlantic locomotive

[@FredE528]

I did a lot of research before setting on the track plan for the original 4x8. I had a very old Atlas track plan book. Looked at lots of TH-cam videos. I finally found a 4x8 layout I liked, CougarF150 or something like this. I laid it out temporarily on my board as best I could without nails or glue. Modified it to suit my ideas. Overtime I changes it too.
I do not have an actual track plan but I’ve shared this video with other viewers that have asked th-cam.com/video/T7onO5JW5CM/w-d-xo.html
If you have questions feel free to ask.

[@FredE528]

I googled the name of your railroad and found pictures of the green locomotives it uses. I’ve never seen a model in this road name but maybe someone sells one. You might setup a search on eBay and ask it to email you any hits.

[@NYandAtlantic]

@@FredE528 they are GP38-2 MTH did a run on it 2016 they recently sold their tooling to scale trains but are only doing steam engines right now

[@FredE528]

There are guys in the hobby that could custom paint one for you. Might be $$$. You have a model railroad club near you? Check with them?

[@FredE528]

Here’s a nice playlist for new modelers. th-cam.com/play/PLhNb9AHNpkeeiAR18ntdhvz9BEnwvwLir.html

[@captslappy]

Very nice. I started building a 4x8 HO layout during the pandemic. How did you do your roads?

[@FredE528]

Thanks for your comment. Here’s a video on my roads. th-cam.com/video/O0Gdp5ZfJFA/w-d-xo.html.

[@FredE528]

Check this out too. I cut paper and then used it as pattern to cut the black sheets. th-cam.com/video/oTHPCGE56uY/w-d-xo.html

[@FredE528]

Here’s a video on another road method. I would do this everywhere but had to because remodeling torn up the foam. th-cam.com/video/_14bf63xp9A/w-d-xo.html

[@captslappy]

@@FredE528 Thanks so much. This second one looks a little more involved and messier. I think the Silly Winks is the way to go. I'll be starting on my roads after the holidays.

[@FredE528]

Good for you. I misspoke in previous comment. I would NOT do smooth-it everywhere. To much work.

[@davidsheriff8989]

Like the use of darker colours...gives it age...

[@FredE528]

Thanks David. I don’t do any fancy weathering on my buildings. Just modeling paint with slightly different darker colors. There are so many things to learn and build in this hobby that weathering just isn’t of interest to me. Be safe out there😷

[@mrtomJ316]

I'm to poor now I was working oscale but I need Nscale

[@FredE528]

You can do a lot with N-Scale in a small space.

[@ebody70]

Good job

[@FredE528]

Thanks Jim. Checkout updated walk around in my Top 10 Favorites playlist. th-cam.com/play/PLPYeOPCFexrGicN7MxRbPbjaHcd1H62dF.html

[@electricgaming9914]

So this is 8 feet long?

[@FredE528]

😀. Two 4x8 layouts end to end. Built at different times. That’s what the ‘ x2 ‘ is supposed to indicate. This is older video. Newer one on my home page plus last video shows an overhead view.

[@electricgaming9914]

Tanks

[@RandomGamesProductions]

6 minutes being along video wow

[@FredE528]

There is updated and better video on my main page. About the same length. A bit wordy. 🤔

[@user-pl2cp6ym2x]

should of showed the trains running.

[@FredE528]

There are many videos of trains running on my channel. Below is one the was done several months ago. I expanded the layout to 6’ wide and changed some areas of the layout from video you watched.
th-cam.com/video/LdWxI37XDdo/w-d-xo.html

[@FredE528]

Here’s the last walk around layout review. Just talking. th-cam.com/video/vEZkgBxcS88/w-d-xo.html

[@mr.j6567]

very boring

[@FredE528]

Boring due to just flat?

[@mr.j6567]

no. its just that there is no excitment for the layout.

[@FredE528]

Not sure if you might think these videos in this playlist fit your idea of excitement. Trains running, derailment, murder, jail, trial, escape, and reunion.
th-cam.com/play/PLPYeOPCFexrGhXWhxC6NREVN8hXWf371j.html

[@mr.j6567]

i just like to see folks get excited when talking about their layouts. to see the passion for the hobby

[@FredE528]

Ok, Mr Excitement here 😀. th-cam.com/play/PLPYeOPCFexrGhXWhxC6NREVN8hXWf371j.html