Powering Up — Wiring a layout for operation is often one of the critical stumbling blocks when constructing a model railroad. When getting started, using the simplest method for control is usually the best course of action. The Dover Branch can be operated either using the DC (Direct Current) analog power supply from a train set or an entry-level DCC (Digital Command Control) system sold separately. If you choose to use conventional
DC begin by hooking up the power pack and operate a single train on the line. There is enough switching and direction changes to hours of opera- tion. The Dover Branch can easily be upgraded for multiple train opera- tion at a later date.
tion of additional locomotives and more advanced programming. Other recommended entry-level
DCC systems are Bachmann’s EZ Command, Digitrax’ Zephyr and MRC’s Prodigy. Each system will allow the beginner to be running trains in a short time.
Structures 101 — The addition of buildings can really define the locale and time frame of a model railroad. A selection of both rural as well as light industrial models were selected for our layout. Most of the models are easy to build kits made from laser-cut wood, along with a couple of injection molded plastic kits thrown in for good measure. Most of the buildings shown in the
warder. Both complete scenes were built at the workbench on 1/4” birch plywood bases and then added to the layout. By adding a few custom signs or changing a few features common structure models can be modified to give a unique look to a model railroad.
Easy Roads —Paved roads are an in- tegral part of our world and should be included on our model railroad layouts. On the Dover Branch two roads help move traffic along the river and to the railroad station. These were made from sections of 1/4” Masonite®
(tempered hard-
board) that have had the edges beveled at 45º and then painted with white primer. Thin striping tape was
Easy Layout Tips You Can Use Our version of the Dover Branch
uses DCC to operate the layout. A small layout with only a couple of locomotives can easily be run with only two wires powering the rails. Each locomotive will need to have a decoder chip installed on board to translate the electronic signals sent by the command station to the engines. Many model locomotives are avail- able decoder-equipped from the factory. For those that are not, most stocking DCC retailers can install a decoder if you are not comfortable making the installation yourself. To control the layout, a DCC Twin
from NCE is used. This is a very sim- ple DCC command station that will operate two locomotives independ- ently. The system can be up graded later with the addition of NCE’s Pro Cab Throttle to allow for the opera-
Structure List are available in HO, S and O scale. Similar models are avail- able in N scale as well. If you are not yet ready to assemble kits, a wide variety of pre-built structures are available in many scales. Once you have begun working on
the buildings for your layout have fun with them. We customized the basic Plasticville diner model as the “Jersey Girl Diner” using signs we made from fonts and clip art found on the Internet. Similarly, we used the structures and parts from the Raggs to Riches Delores Conoco Plant kit to make two separate businesses; a pe- troleum distributor and a freight for-
used to mask the center and edge lines on the roadways before spray- ing over them with dark gray primer. Once dry, the tape was removed to reveal the lined highway. A final coat of matte sealer finished the roadways before they were glued in place. If ac- cess to a saw is limited, foamcore board from the craft store can be cut with a sharp hobby knife and used instead of the Masonite. Choosing vehicles to populate your
model railroad is easy and fun. From trucks to sedans, from modern to classic, check with your local hobby dealer first and drive some home today! —George Riley
FREE LASER STRUCTURE GUIDE: Learn about the exciting world of laser-cut wood structures for your model railroad. Visit our web site to read our free guide at
rrmodelcraftsman.com/extraboard
THE PRACTICAL GUIDE TO DCC: Not sure where to start? This book explains DCC concepts and will help you choose the right system for your layout! See your hobby dealer or visit
CarstensBookStore.com
SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO RAILROAD MODEL CRAFTSMAN MAGAZINE • 2013 TRAIN SET GAZETTE S9
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