Hi Luke, Thanks for your comments. This video posted several years ago, now highlights the progress that I have made since I began building it. Notice the "temporary" buildings that I used until I had time to scratch build or kitbash the ones currently on my layout. Good luck on your layout.-Tom
The attention to detail in terms of both modeling and operation is truly incredible Tom! Camera work is also very well done. This is a world class railroad for sure. Appreciate you taking the time to share it with us. -Ethan
I like your layout. At first I didn't understand what you were doing, but you started explaining the operations. I like that you have a point to your video, not just running around the layout. You actually are doing operational (stuff). Moving cars from one area to another with a purpose. I also like your working gates, those are amazing, along with all your scenery. Great operation!! Thanks for sharing.
Hi Vincent, Thanks for your very nice comments, I really appreciate them. I have more information on my layout, track plan, switch lists, and the prototype GNRR on my website www.thomasklimoski.com. As you can tell from my video I enjoy operations and have found you don't need a large layout to have a great ops session.-Tom
Cool layout , Would like to see the whole layout in a upcoming video,. Very well detailed ,love it. Look's so real. It rank's up there with guys like Virginia Midland,TM&N & a few others. Thank's for shareing hope to see more real soon. Al
+Al Jaster Thanks for the great comments. I am working on another video that will highlight the Marble Hill Local working the other portions of the layout not seen in this video. Tom
As a Mindheim-ite, I've researched a lot of shelf layouts (and actually built a couple) and yours is one of the best ones I've seen. Congrats on the "MRP" feature. I'll have to watch your animated gate video for a liquor distributor on my current shelfie.
Hi J. Johnson, I love your term "Mindheim-ite" I definitely am one. Lance has been a big influence on my improved modeling skills and track plan. A small switching layout fits my interest in "micro" operations perfectly. You definitely don't need a large layout to enjoy operations. If you need more information on making a gate contact me at TKlimoski@gmail.com-Tom
+Cameron White Hi Cameron, Please see the reply post to John Prescott in this thread on how I made the gates and opener control. Many people have been asking how I made the gates so I guess an article or video will be on my to do list. The MRP 2016 article covers the construction and planning of the layout, I don't describe how I made the gates. If you want more information on the gates please e-mail me at tklimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to answer any questions. Thanks for the comments. Tom
This is a fantastic layout and I enjoyed your article in MRP 2016 (and other videos). I'm contemplating going from an N scale layout to an more switching oriented HO one and this is definitely an inspiration for that, - Phil
+Conrail1996 Hi Phil, Thanks for the comments. I enjoy switching operations so this size layout is perfect for me. You don't have to build a large layout to have plenty of operations. Look for my next video coming out soon on switching the Marble Hill industries not seen in this video. Good luck on your new layout if you decide to switch to HO. -Tom
Awesome layout, has motivated me to start construction on my shelf layout. I really like the working derails.How did you make those?? Your operating gates are very nice also.
+DF6254 Thanks for your comments, glad I was able to inspire you to build a shelf layout. I am sure you will enjoy it. The derail I use is a heavily modified Alexander 120-9501 Hayes Derail Set. I mainly used the derail casting and a small portion of the base that attached to the ties. I cut down the arm portion and drilled a small hole in the arm of the derail casting and then used a piece of .020 wire for the hinge. The most important thing was to make sure the derail laid flat when it was removed so the locomotive could pass over it. It took a little trial and error to get it just right. I really like the extra step crews have to do to remove the derail before hooking up to the cars, very prototypical.-Tom
Great operation session. The slow speed and was vey impressive. As I change my layout to local runs. I have been trying to compare car cards with way bills to switch lists, like you used. If You have time I would like to go over it. Thanks Anthony
Hi Anthony, Thanks for your comments. As you can probably tell from the video I really enjoy switching operations. I would be glad to discuss the merits and drawbacks of using switch lists and CC/WB with you. Please contact me at tklimoski@gmail.com and I can give you more information. Thanks.-Tom
Hi Anthony, You can also go to my new website at www.thomasklimoski.com and click on the Switch List tab. There you will find information on the switch lists I developed and how I use them. In addition, you can download a copy of the Excel switch list form for you to modify to fit your needs. I look forward to hearing from you.-Tom
+James Kruchten Hi James, The lumber racks were scratch built using prototype photos for reference. I am working on an article for MR on how I built the Capitol Building Materials facility and step by step instructions for the lumber racks. If you want to build some lumber racks like those in the video contact me at Tklimoski@gmail and I'll send you the materials list. Thanks for the comments. Tom
Excellent video!!! What is the length of the fiddle cassette? Also is there a place where I can have a closer look to your paper forms for operation? I amredesigning my layout as operation oriented and liked the way you did it. Congratulations.
Hi, My staging cassette is 5'6" long by 8" wide. You can see more on how I built the staging cassette on my You Tube video "Designing and building a removable staging cassette". Please contact me at tklimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to e-mail you copies of my switching lists. Thanks for your comments.-Tom
Mike, I appreciate your comments, I am still working to improve my skills and get all the details just right. You also have an excellent layout and viewers should check out your layout and subscribe to your channel. -Tom
+sailormatlac Hi, If you go to my You Tube channel, ThomasKlimoski you will find a video I made "How to build an operating gate and derail". In the video I explain how I made the derail and the part number. Thanks for the comments.-Tom
Nice layout. It's nice to see a prototype that is in my backyard(sorta speak). I was in Tate this last summer and saw that they had the depot up on I-beams and ready to move to another location. Have you seen this or know where it is being moved to? Merry Christmas to you and yours. Darrin
+axeandrail Hi Darrin, I have not seen the Tate Depot since it was moved but I understand through some friends that it was moved to the other side of the road. I am planning to stop by the Depot and take some photos the next time I am around Tate. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Tom
Hi SB, The Chessie locomotive you see in the video has now been repainted to replicate GNRR's 6576. You can see the finished model on my blog on my website. I also upgraded the decoder to a ESU LokSound decoder and it sounds even better. I will be posting a video soon highlighting the "new" unit to my fleet. I actually got a chance to ride the prototype unit and the ESU geep sound files bring back great memories of that day.-Tom
ThomasKlimoski I will admit that I like having one or two engines with the “patch” paint job on a short line. One short line I worked had GTW, ex-CN and a few other paint schemes in addition to our own. I grew up watching Penn Central turn Conrail so I guess I’m partial to hodgepodge lashups lol
Hi, I have a RUclips video on How to model a tree covered hill which demonstrates how I applied the Heki wildgrass fiber mats (HK1575 and 1576). Here is a link to my video; ruclips.net/video/Zf2iHirRyPM/видео.html The Heki wildgrass fiber mats are easy to use and you don't need a static applicator to apply them. I also wrote an article "From grass mat to weed patch" that appeared in Model Railroader magazine a few years ago that outlined the products and steps I took. I have more information on my layout and how to videos on my website at www.thomasklimoski.com. Thanks for your comments. Good luck on your scenery project and I hope you give the Heki wildgrass mats a try. -Tom
Hi Thomas, Thanks for your comments. The prototype GNRR GP9 came from Chessie System, eventually I am going to paint mine to the GNRR paint scheme.-Tom
Thomas, like the theme of your railroad. Can you show how you did the gate mechanism, I like how it works, I have a med size switching layout and would like to duplicate it.
+Wayne Snyder Hi Wayne, Please see my reply to John Prescott on this thread on how I made the gate. If you want more information or photos please contact me at TKlimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to pass them along to you. The gate realistically adds one more step for the switch crews to perform (it also looks cool). Thanks for watching and good luck on your layout. Tom
Hi Dan, I made the water by using Magic Water from Unreal Details. www.unrealdetails.com/ I made a plaster base for the stream, painted it with a custom mixed green acrylic paint, feathered in some brown paint along the shallow areas along the banks of the creek, then added dirt scenery on the banks. Next, I poured the two part epoxy "water". There are two layers of the water because a bug landed in the first pour and got stuck. I had to dig it out, paint the stream bottom again, then pour the water a second time. This time I covered it with plastic wrap to prevent another bug from trying to take a drink. If you want more information contact me through my website and I'll be glad to help.-Tom
Hi, Thanks for your comments. I am in the process of replicating the GNRR locomotive fleet from 2012. Check out my website at www.thomasklimoski.com to see updates on my progress.-Tom
This has got to be some of the most authentic, scale scenery I have ever seen in my life. I have not seen one thing on this layout that is not correct or takes away from the overall impression. I continue to be blow away by your eye (Talent) in scale construction.
Hi Scott, Thank you for your very nice comments on my layout. Be sure to check out my website where you can find more photos, the track plan, switch lists, link to all my videos and subscribe to receive my blog posts. My website is www.thomasklimoski.com -Tom
Hi Barry, The cart is a Seville Classics Large 10 Drawer Organizer Cart in Frosted White, Model SHE16210B that I purchased from Walmart on-line. The cart works well to store over 100 cars. I created dividers using foam board and lined the bottom with 1/2 " thick soft foam.-Tom
Outstanding video Tom! Love seeing the Athearn Genesis GP9 do its work. Nice touch on the derail at Dow Chemical. An important element in the real world that most Modelers overlook. Merry Christmas! Tim
+tmh57 Tim, Thanks for the compliments. You are right that the derail adds that little extra and makes the switching operation more prototypical. Hope you can make it back here for a visit soon. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Tom
You have a fantastic layout! The scenery and building detail is amazing, plus, the considerations you've made for operation make the functionality just as good as the visual presentation. I'll definitely be watching with interest. -Cam
+railfan220 Cam, Thanks for the comments and noticing the importance I place on prototypical operation. I will be uploading a new video in January highlighting the other portion of my railroad not covered in this video. Thanks again and have a Happy New Year. Tom
Well done! Cannot say anything that has not yet been said, but again, kudos to you! Excellent work. Great scenery. Smooth running. Love the gates and derail. Incredible details! In a word - Wow!!!
Sweet!Love the layout!and love the animated gates,gonna have to incorporate that in my switching layout.Well done Sir.I hope you post some new videos soon.
Just found your channel, great layout and love the operations. Do you or could you do a video on how you did the gates... looks like Lego Technics. Also who makes the derail's?
Joe, Thanks for your comments. You are correct, the Lego parts are from the Technics set. I have a video on my You Tube channel "How to Build an Operating Gate and Derail". The video has information on how I built the gate, information on the Lego parts I used as well as the part number for the derail and brief instructions on the modifications to the derail to make it work. If you have any questions please contact me at tklimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to help you.-Tom
Hi, Thanks for your comments. If you want to see more about my layout go to my website at www.thomasklimoski.com where I post more frequent updates on my blog and have links to all my videos.-Tom
Nice to see this hobby coming of age as an art! May I make a suggestion? Wouldn't weighted boxcars appear much more realistic during yard engine hookups if they were anchored somewhat stationary in place by adding weight to make them heavier? Cars moving back too easily while hooking up fade the immersion in the pushback operation, making an un-prototypical appearance... Thank you for the very refreshing higher bar you're setting-
Hi Josedav, Thanks for your comments. Yes, I agree adding weight would help a little with the cars moving too easily when coupling. The problem I have is trying to find places to hide the weight without damaging the car trying to take them apart. As I weather and detail the cars I will look for ways to add weight. Be sure to check out my website at www.thomasklimoski.com where you can see more about my layout and subscribe to my blog where I post more frequent updates. -Tom
I must say, this is in the top 5 layouts I've ever seen. Some of the BEST forced perspective I've come across with the backdrops. Awesome manual automation for the gates. Care to share your secret? A true inspiration for railroad hobbyists. Keep up the GREAT work! Looking forward to the next video! Best, John
+John Prescott Hi John, Thanks for the very high compliments. I still have a long way to go before it will be finished, but the journey is the fun part. The gate is made with .020 piano wire with the hinge side of the gate frame approx. 6" long so that it can pass through a styrene tube and exit below the 2" foam cap. I scavenged through a box of the kids toys and found a worm drive made by Lego in a Technic set. The worm drive turns a gear that has a shaft that I can connect the gate wire to. The worm drive sits on a bracket under the layout and connects to the long gate wire that I bent into a L shape once I determined the correct length. The drive shaft was several of the Technic straight pieces that I connected together and it terminates just past the fascia with the crank handle. It really is a simple mechanism, works well and did not cost me much. Tom
Really like this ! (Subbed) Looking to expand/replace my 8 foot shelf layout (Brett) and extend around 3 walls.. this is real inspiration, thanks for sharing :-)
Hi Conraildan, I used Micro Engineering Code 70 track and #6 turnouts. The ballast is Arizona Rock and Mineral # 1382 CSX/ SOUTHERN PACIFIC WABASH HO BALLAST. Thanks for your comments. -Tom
+carlton willougyby You and many others have been intrigued by the gates. I am working on my next video that will explain how I made the gate(s) operate. The secret is a Lego Technics worm drive that I "borrowed" from our grown kids box of Legos. I will try to explain everything in the upcoming video. Thanks -Tom
Brilliant ! Impressive! You inspire me to make better use of my 89" x 69" plywood layout !
Hi Luke, Thanks for your comments. This video posted several years ago, now highlights the progress that I have made since I began building it. Notice the "temporary" buildings that I used until I had time to scratch build or kitbash the ones currently on my layout. Good luck on your layout.-Tom
The attention to detail in terms of both modeling and operation is truly incredible Tom! Camera work is also very well done. This is a world class railroad for sure. Appreciate you taking the time to share it with us.
-Ethan
Ethan, Thank you for your very complimentary comments. I will have a layout update video coming out soon highlighting a couple of new structures. -Tom
I like your layout. At first I didn't understand what you were doing, but you started explaining the operations. I like that you have a point to your video, not just running around the layout. You actually are doing operational (stuff). Moving cars from one area to another with a purpose. I also like your working gates, those are amazing, along with all your scenery.
Great operation!! Thanks for sharing.
Hi Vincent, Thanks for your very nice comments, I really appreciate them. I have more information on my layout, track plan, switch lists, and the prototype GNRR on my website www.thomasklimoski.com. As you can tell from my video I enjoy operations and have found you don't need a large layout to have a great ops session.-Tom
Cool layout , Would like to see the whole layout in a upcoming video,. Very well detailed ,love it. Look's so real. It rank's up there with guys like Virginia Midland,TM&N & a few others. Thank's for shareing hope to see more real soon.
Al
+Al Jaster Thanks for the great comments. I am working on another video that will highlight the Marble Hill Local working the other portions of the layout not seen in this video. Tom
As a Mindheim-ite, I've researched a lot of shelf layouts (and actually built a couple) and yours is one of the best ones I've seen. Congrats on the "MRP" feature. I'll have to watch your animated gate video for a liquor distributor on my current shelfie.
Hi J. Johnson, I love your term "Mindheim-ite" I definitely am one. Lance has been a big influence on my improved modeling skills and track plan. A small switching layout fits my interest in "micro" operations perfectly. You definitely don't need a large layout to enjoy operations. If you need more information on making a gate contact me at TKlimoski@gmail.com-Tom
Really nice layout in a small space. Clean conception and well detailed. Scenery has great texture. Simple and functional. Video work is sensible too.
Hi Ron, Thanks for your comments on my layout and videos. I find keeping things simple makes it more realistic.-Tom
What a great video....! Very inspiring. Are you going to describe how you make the gate openers in the incoming MR Planning edition?
+Cameron White Hi Cameron, Please see the reply post to John Prescott in this thread on how I made the gates and opener control. Many people have been asking how I made the gates so I guess an article or video will be on my to do list. The MRP 2016 article covers the construction and planning of the layout, I don't describe how I made the gates. If you want more information on the gates please e-mail me at tklimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to answer any questions. Thanks for the comments. Tom
This is a fantastic layout and I enjoyed your article in MRP 2016 (and other videos). I'm contemplating going from an N scale layout to an more switching oriented HO one and this is definitely an inspiration for that,
- Phil
+Conrail1996 Hi Phil, Thanks for the comments. I enjoy switching operations so this size layout is perfect for me. You don't have to build a large layout to have plenty of operations. Look for my next video coming out soon on switching the Marble Hill industries not seen in this video. Good luck on your new layout if you decide to switch to HO.
-Tom
Awesome layout, has motivated me to start construction on my shelf layout. I really like the working derails.How did you make those?? Your operating gates are very nice also.
+DF6254 Thanks for your comments, glad I was able to inspire you to build a shelf layout. I am sure you will enjoy it. The derail I use is a heavily modified Alexander 120-9501 Hayes Derail Set. I mainly used the derail casting and a small portion of the base that attached to the ties. I cut down the arm portion and drilled a small hole in the arm of the derail casting and then used a piece of .020 wire for the hinge. The most important thing was to make sure the derail laid flat when it was removed so the locomotive could pass over it. It took a little trial and error to get it just right. I really like the extra step crews have to do to remove the derail before hooking up to the cars, very prototypical.-Tom
+ThomasKlimoski Thanks, I'll have to give that a try.
Very nice what you have done in the smaller bedroom space. Very operational and excellent scenery. Thanks for sharing!
Great operation session. The slow speed and was vey impressive. As I change my layout to local runs. I have been trying to compare car cards with way bills to switch lists, like you used. If You have time I would like to go over it. Thanks Anthony
Hi Anthony, Thanks for your comments. As you can probably tell from the video I really enjoy switching operations. I would be glad to discuss the merits and drawbacks of using switch lists and CC/WB with you. Please contact me at tklimoski@gmail.com and I can give you more information. Thanks.-Tom
Hi Anthony, You can also go to my new website at www.thomasklimoski.com and click on the Switch List tab. There you will find information on the switch lists I developed and how I use them. In addition, you can download a copy of the Excel switch list form for you to modify to fit your needs. I look forward to hearing from you.-Tom
Love the video would like to know how you got the lumber racks at your lumber yard?
+James Kruchten Hi James, The lumber racks were scratch built using prototype photos for reference. I am working on an article for MR on how I built the Capitol Building Materials facility and step by step instructions for the lumber racks. If you want to build some lumber racks like those in the video contact me at Tklimoski@gmail and I'll send you the materials list. Thanks for the comments. Tom
Excellent video!!! What is the length of the fiddle cassette? Also is there a place where I can have a closer look to your paper forms for operation? I amredesigning my layout as operation oriented and liked the way you did it. Congratulations.
Hi, My staging cassette is 5'6" long by 8" wide. You can see more on how
I built the staging cassette on my You Tube video "Designing and
building a removable staging cassette". Please contact me at
tklimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to e-mail you copies of my switching lists.
Thanks for your comments.-Tom
Tom - Spectacular video. I truly appreciate the attention to detail you have paid to every foot of your layout. The GNRR is a work of art! Mike
Mike, I appreciate your comments, I am still working to improve my skills and get all the details just right. You also have an excellent layout and viewers should check out your layout and subscribe to your channel. -Tom
my gosh what a layout. one of the most impressive. Lance, you and several others definitely have amazing talent.
Hi Michael, Thanks for the very high compliments. I am always working to improve my modeling skills, Lance and many others set the bar very high.-Tom
Tom, where did you find your working derail? Is it a custom made part or commercially available? BTW, awesome layout.
+sailormatlac Hi, If you go to my You Tube channel, ThomasKlimoski you will find a video I made "How to build an operating gate and derail". In the video I explain how I made the derail and the part number. Thanks for the comments.-Tom
Nice layout. It's nice to see a prototype that is in my backyard(sorta speak). I was in Tate this last summer and saw that they had the depot up on I-beams and ready to move to another location. Have you seen this or know where it is being moved to?
Merry Christmas to you and yours. Darrin
+axeandrail Hi Darrin, I have not seen the Tate Depot since it was moved but I understand through some friends that it was moved to the other side of the road. I am planning to stop by the Depot and take some photos the next time I am around Tate.
Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Tom
That geep sounds great. I used to run paducah rebuilds on a short line. Brings back memories!!!
Hi SB, The Chessie locomotive you see in the video has now been repainted to replicate GNRR's 6576. You can see the finished model on my blog on my website. I also upgraded the decoder to a ESU LokSound decoder and it sounds even better. I will be posting a video soon highlighting the "new" unit to my fleet. I actually got a chance to ride the prototype unit and the ESU geep sound files bring back great memories of that day.-Tom
ThomasKlimoski I will admit that I like having one or two engines with the “patch” paint job on a short line. One short line I worked had GTW, ex-CN and a few other paint schemes in addition to our own. I grew up watching Penn Central turn Conrail so I guess I’m partial to hodgepodge lashups lol
Looks great! Do you mind sharing what brand/length of static grass you used? Specifically at the entrance from staging?
Hi, I have a RUclips video on How to model a tree covered hill which demonstrates how I applied the Heki wildgrass fiber mats (HK1575 and 1576). Here is a link to my video; ruclips.net/video/Zf2iHirRyPM/видео.html
The Heki wildgrass fiber mats are easy to use and you don't need a static applicator to apply them. I also wrote an article "From grass mat to weed patch" that appeared in Model Railroader magazine a few years ago that outlined the products and steps I took. I have more information on my layout and how to videos on my website at www.thomasklimoski.com. Thanks for your comments. Good luck on your scenery project and I hope you give the Heki wildgrass mats a try. -Tom
ThomasKlimoski great thanks! I like the idea of that for consistency’s sake. I’m using a static grass applicator and it just doesn’t look right.
fantastic layout!
Hi, Thanks for your comments. You can see more about my layout on my website at www.thomasklimoski.com and subscribe to my blog. -Tom
Great video and good looking layout Tom. I enjoyed your article in MRP 2016. Thanks!
Nice work with the GP9 Cheesie system liked when the fence opens automatically and the Derailer flips open on the tracks
Hi Thomas, Thanks for your comments. The prototype GNRR GP9 came from Chessie System, eventually I am going to paint mine to the GNRR paint scheme.-Tom
Thomas, like the theme of your railroad. Can you show how you did the gate mechanism, I like how it works, I have a med size switching layout and would like to duplicate it.
+Wayne Snyder Hi Wayne, Please see my reply to John Prescott on this thread on how I made the gate. If you want more information or photos please contact me at TKlimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to pass them along to you. The gate realistically adds one more step for the switch crews to perform (it also looks cool). Thanks for watching and good luck on your layout. Tom
How did you get that water to reflect like the real thing? Curious what products and paints you used.
Hi Dan, I made the water by using Magic Water from Unreal Details.
www.unrealdetails.com/
I made a plaster base for the stream, painted it with a custom mixed green acrylic paint, feathered in some brown paint along the shallow areas along the banks of the creek, then added dirt scenery on the banks. Next, I poured the two part epoxy "water". There are two layers of the water because a bug landed in the first pour and got stuck. I had to dig it out, paint the stream bottom again, then pour the water a second time. This time I covered it with plastic wrap to prevent another bug from trying to take a drink. If you want more information contact me through my website and I'll be glad to help.-Tom
this layout proves that size isnt the most important thing. yes, running 40 car trains would be sweet but this layout is AWESOME
Hi, Thanks for your comments. You can see more about my layout on my website at www.thomasklimoski.com where I post updates and have a blog.-Tom
Yep that's Tate, GA alright. Spitting image. As is the Etowa bridge, Ga53 crossing and all the marble dust. Marvelous job.
Hi, Thanks for your comments. I am in the process of replicating the GNRR locomotive fleet from 2012. Check out my website at www.thomasklimoski.com to see updates on my progress.-Tom
Great Layout. I have a similar space, but a vastly different concept under construction.
+marlen brown Good luck on your layout. I look forward to seeing your progress in your next video. Tom
This has got to be some of the most authentic, scale scenery I have ever seen in my life. I have not seen one thing on this layout that is not correct or takes away from the overall impression. I continue to be blow away by your eye (Talent) in scale construction.
Hi Scott, Thank you for your very nice comments on my layout. Be sure to check out my website where you can find more photos, the track plan, switch lists, link to all my videos and subscribe to receive my blog posts. My website is www.thomasklimoski.com -Tom
I'm very impressed with the layout and your operations. Very well done!
+Ken Pryor Hi Ken, Thanks for the comments. Stay tuned for further updates. -Tom
Where did you get your "staging" drawers from? Is that a scrapbooking cart?
Hi Barry, The cart is a Seville Classics Large 10 Drawer Organizer Cart in Frosted White, Model SHE16210B that I purchased from Walmart on-line. The cart works well to store over 100 cars. I created dividers using foam board and lined the bottom with 1/2 " thick soft foam.-Tom
Excellent modelling detail and video composition.
very nice layout
Outstanding video Tom! Love seeing the Athearn Genesis GP9 do its work. Nice touch on the derail at Dow Chemical. An important element in the real world that most Modelers overlook.
Merry Christmas!
Tim
+tmh57 Tim, Thanks for the compliments. You are right that the derail adds that little extra and makes the switching operation more prototypical. Hope you can make it back here for a visit soon. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Tom
You have a fantastic layout! The scenery and building detail is amazing, plus, the considerations you've made for operation make the functionality just as good as the visual presentation. I'll definitely be watching with interest.
-Cam
+railfan220 Cam, Thanks for the comments and noticing the importance I place on prototypical operation. I will be uploading a new video in January highlighting the other portion of my railroad not covered in this video. Thanks again and have a Happy New Year. Tom
Well done! Cannot say anything that has not yet been said, but again, kudos to you! Excellent work. Great scenery. Smooth running. Love the gates and derail. Incredible details! In a word - Wow!!!
Always impressed by your details and clean lines. Nice seeing great detail in a truly operational layout.
Ryan, Thank you for your comments.-Tom
Sweet!Love the layout!and love the animated gates,gonna have to incorporate that in my switching layout.Well done Sir.I hope you post some new videos soon.
Wow great layout ! Thanks for sharing and keep up the great work... Lance 🚂👍
Thanks Lance. Stay tuned for more layout updates and check out my other videos on You Tube.-Tom
Just found your channel, great layout and love the operations. Do you or could you do a video on how you did the gates... looks like Lego Technics. Also who makes the derail's?
Joe, Thanks for your comments. You are correct, the Lego parts are from the Technics set. I have a video on my You Tube channel "How to Build an Operating Gate and Derail". The video has information on how I built the gate, information on the Lego parts I used as well as the part number for the derail and brief instructions on the modifications to the derail to make it work. If you have any questions please contact me at tklimoski@gmail.com and I'll be glad to help you.-Tom
Absolutely awesome!
Hi, Thanks for your comments. If you want to see more about my layout go to my website at www.thomasklimoski.com where I post more frequent updates on my blog and have links to all my videos.-Tom
YES! My god, man. This might be the greatest switching layout ever. Scenery, operations, all the details. Be proud.
Nice to see this hobby coming of age as an art! May I make a suggestion?
Wouldn't weighted boxcars appear much more realistic during yard engine hookups if they were anchored somewhat stationary in place by adding weight to make them heavier? Cars moving back too easily while hooking up fade the immersion in the pushback operation, making an un-prototypical appearance...
Thank you for the very refreshing higher bar you're setting-
Hi Josedav, Thanks for your comments. Yes, I agree adding weight would help a little with the cars moving too easily when coupling. The problem I have is trying to find places to hide the weight without damaging the car trying to take them apart. As I weather and detail the cars I will look for ways to add weight. Be sure to check out my website at www.thomasklimoski.com where you can see more about my layout and subscribe to my blog where I post more frequent updates. -Tom
Excellent layout, very well done. Thanks for sharing
I must say, this is in the top 5 layouts I've ever seen. Some of the BEST forced perspective I've come across with the backdrops. Awesome manual automation for the gates. Care to share your secret? A true inspiration for railroad hobbyists. Keep up the GREAT work! Looking forward to the next video!
Best,
John
+John Prescott Hi John, Thanks for the very high compliments. I still have a long way to go before it will be finished, but the journey is the fun part.
The gate is made with .020 piano wire with the hinge side of the gate frame approx. 6" long so that it can pass through a styrene tube and exit below the 2" foam cap. I scavenged through a box of the kids toys and found a worm drive made by Lego in a Technic set. The worm drive turns a gear that has a shaft that I can connect the gate wire to. The worm drive sits on a bracket under the layout and connects to the long gate wire that I bent into a L shape once I determined the correct length. The drive shaft was several of the Technic straight pieces that I connected together and it terminates just past the fascia with the crank handle. It really is a simple mechanism, works well and did not cost me much.
Tom
Really like this ! (Subbed) Looking to expand/replace my 8 foot shelf layout (Brett) and extend around 3 walls.. this is real inspiration, thanks for sharing :-)
That is a great looking layout! Thanks for sharing!
I had the privilege of operating Tom's layout and it was quite an experience. Excellent detail and operation. 4-0, Tom! ...John Rieken, Homer
Loved the way you had the conductor move with the switching. Gives the video a sence of being now. Agree with all the below comments,
Great layout, so what brand/code of track is it and what brand of ballast did u use?
Hi Conraildan, I used Micro Engineering Code 70 track and #6 turnouts. The ballast is Arizona Rock and Mineral # 1382 CSX/ SOUTHERN PACIFIC WABASH HO BALLAST. Thanks for your comments. -Tom
This is incredibly well done
Nice like your gates.
+carlton willougyby
You and many others have been intrigued by the gates. I am working on my
next video that will explain how I made the gate(s) operate. The secret is a
Lego Technics worm drive that I "borrowed" from our grown kids box of
Legos. I will try to explain everything in the upcoming video. Thanks -Tom
Brilliant! I like operation like this one.