BACKGROUND
A special acknowledgement to Ron Gagnon who has been running trains for 40 years. He has been extremely generous with his support, advice, and terrific enthusiasm. Planning for the JAM & L lines began in early 2001. Layout design was accomplished using RR Track version 4 for all track, switch and accessory layouts. Construction started the first of August, 2001. Room revisions included the installation of 2 sets of dimmer control incandescent lighting. Basic benchwork was purchased, cut and assembled in one day with the assistance of Brad Arkebauer. It took 3 additional days to fill screw holes, sand and stain legs and framework and paint benchwork top.
Approximately 300 hours over a 4 month period went into the track, switch, accessory layout and wiring. Trains where up and running first of December 2001.
Scenery construction was started January 2002.
BENCHWORK
Table size = 6'2'' x 20' (124 square feet)
Table height = 36"- 2"x4" legs - 1"x 4" frame
3/4'" AA plywood top
Cork roadbed
Track is GarGraves, total of 160 feet that is equal to 1.5 miles in real life track.
Switches are Ross Custom, 18 total powered by Tortoise DC motors with four - 12 volt serial wired power packs
Control Panel (33" x 14") is a framed and piano hinged 1/8" painted masonite board, outlined for passenger and freight routes including sidings. Center-off toggle switches for all crossing switches and momentary push buttons for uncouplers.
Accessory Panel is (22" x 14") is a framed and piano hinged 1/8" masonite board with a combination of toggle and push button switches along with select manufacturers switches for each operating accessory.
Primary Routes - Two
One passenger route with two sidings, one 30 degree x-crossing, and one 360 degree circle (tunnel hidden)
One freight line with one inter loop and two accessory sidings
Both routes tied together at two places
Scenery - Primary scenery componates are from Woodland Scenics. Special thanks to Sue Stenstrum for her assistance.