Pennsy
on a Shelf
N Scale layout, around the walls loop
This is an intermediate level layout which wraps around three walls of a basement
and takes up approximately 36 square feet, although it extends into the room no more than
two (2) feet at any one point. This layout was completed in about four (4) months.Construction
The base for this Pennsy layout is constructed from 1x4 and 1x1 pine, glued and
screwed into a lattice framework with Styrofoam insulation board used for scenery. The
layout consists of four easy-to-handle modules that rest on simple shelf brackets, with
each piece connected via lag bolts and simple electrical connectors.
Scenery
The foam was shaped with a Stanley Surform tool and painted with tan latex paint.
Joint compound was used to create rock formations, which were carved with a putty knife.
Ground foam, clump foliage and individual trees were attached with white glue. The
backdrop is hand painted on the back of a 1.5' wide strip of linoleum, curved around the
corners of the room.
Track
Cork roadbed is the base for a combination of Atlas sectional and flex
track, while thinner sheets of cork gasket material are used to allow the yard areas to be
slightly lower than the main lines. Custom Line turnouts are operated by Circuitron
under-table switch machines, mounted with liquid nails to the underside of the foam.
Power, Control & Details
The layout is wired for operation using electrical blocks and SPST on-off
toggle switches, while power is provided by a CMI Hogger SuperBlue walk-around control
unit. Details include an operating turntable, full steam service center, interior building
lighting, road and bridge signs, culverts and drainage ditches as well as discarded ties
and rail along the right-of-way.
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a carload of merchandise is spotted at the freight house
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