Layout planning and construction is the single most important part of a Model Railroad Layouts success. If one doesn't get this part correct the success of your layout as a whole is in jeopardy no matter the quality of anything else related to it! Having said that there is not just one method or technique that can be labelled the best but there are some well know methods that are sound and have stood the test of time. We will do our best to highlight those here so anyone whether a newbie or a veteran can start their layout on the right track (pun intended!)
Layout Planning
Benchwork
Roadbed & Sub-roadbed
Trackwork
Mark Ellis presents a detailed clinic on the basics of trackwork paying special attention to the different types of track, and the nuances of code, gauge and the like. There is much more to trackwork than simply plopping it down on your layouts roadbed and sub-roadbed! Mark does a very good job of explaining how to make sure you are handling your trackwork correctly in terms of installation and maintenance.
* Mark Ellis's Trackwork Clinic - NCR Division 6 Winter 2020
Mark Ellis presents a detailed clinic on the basics of trackwork paying special attention to the different types of track, and the nuances of code, gauge and the like. There is much more to trackwork than simply plopping it down on your layouts roadbed and sub-roadbed! Mark does a very good job of explaining how to make sure you are handling your trackwork correctly in terms of installation and maintenance.
* Mark Ellis's Trackwork Clinic - NCR Division 6 Winter 2020
Bruce Wolff presents an extremely in depth explanation on how to wire turnouts for DCC Systems. Bruce covers most wildly used brands in both HO and N scale but these would definitely fit S & O versions from the same manufactures. If you are not sure how to wire the turnouts you have or unsure which ones to purchase for your layout this is one for you to study!
* Bruce Wolff's Turnout Wiring Guide - NCR Division 6 May 2021
* Bruce Wolff's Turnout Wiring Guide - NCR Division 6 May 2021
Scott Kremer presents an introductory explanation on how to model overhead electrical catenary as it was done on the Great Northern Railroad. He explains how to construct the poles and run the wiring. He also show some prototype photos and videos!
* Scott Kremer's Modeling Great Northern Catenary
* Scott Kremer's Modeling Great Northern Catenary
Finishing Touches
Barry Hensel created a very detailed clininc on how one can add a control panel to their layout. He does a very good job at explaining the different methods and types of panels and why they are are needed. These panels are usually created and mounted towards the end of ones layout creation process but it is a good idea to get a handle on how you plan to do them near the beginning of the process so DO NOT miss this one!
* Barry Hensel's Control Panel Clinic - NCR Division 6 Winter 2021
Barry Hensel created a very detailed clininc on how one can add a control panel to their layout. He does a very good job at explaining the different methods and types of panels and why they are are needed. These panels are usually created and mounted towards the end of ones layout creation process but it is a good idea to get a handle on how you plan to do them near the beginning of the process so DO NOT miss this one!
* Barry Hensel's Control Panel Clinic - NCR Division 6 Winter 2021