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The Model Railroader staff’s 5 x 8 harbor railroad project begins in the January issue. In part 1 of this new video series, you’ll get an overview of the layout with its designer, David Popp. David also built the modular benchwork for the layout.
loved the idea of the video’s but live in country and have to use satellite for internet – not being able to download makes this as worthless for me – need to be able to download so can watch
So I have decided to start with Rice Harbor as my first project railroad in quite a few years. But I am having a little trouble with the parts. Specifically, Atlas #544 – Code 83 22" Radius Left Snap Switch (always in perpetual back order), and the Walthers 948-830 – 30 Degree crossing (same situation). Since it seems to be impossible to get these, do you have any recommendations for alternates?
great videos for some one doing a HOscale layout but i am looking for more videos on N scale layouts because i am in limited space to use but great videos i hope to see more on the n scale model railroading please help me on getting started on my layout looking forward on my layout in 4×4 center with a 2×4 add on on either side of the 4×4 center can this be done or am i just wasting time think of this type of layout
Glad to see this blog series has struck a chord with so many viewers — keep those comments/questions coming!
Vance — David used the Radiata Pine because it was perfectly clear (no knots). With this quality of lumber, there's less of a chance the wood will warp and cause an aggravating (we know from previous experiences) misalignment of the benchwork sections. While it might seem like an unnecessary expense, the cost of using clearwood is worth it to keep headaches at bay.
MRVP subscribers can see a quick tutorial on selecting lumber for a forthcoming On30 Olympia Logging layout by viewing:
http://mrv.trains.com/how-to/benchwork/2014/01/olympia-logging-series-selecting-lumber-and-hardware
— Kent
Associate Producer, MRVP
I learned some years ago about Radiata Pine for building layouts. I use it as plywood and also as 1×4 boards and strips. I see that David is using it for the bench work here. Good move…Light, strong, straight, mostly knot free. (But not cheap)
David, please explain to the readers (and watchers) why you used Radiata Pine over the other more common woods and that you can even buy it at Home Depot…also a little short video on picking out good wood for your layout would helpful for many.
Great layout. I noticed a number of recent project layouts used ripped plywood instead of dimensional lumber, and I have been giving serious consideration to going in that direction. I noted that the 2014 project layout reverted to using dimensional lumber. Does this reflect problems encountered with the plywood benchwork?
I'm actively planning to build the very attractive Rice Harbor layout. I see the plans for the benchwork and this summary video, but am wondering (not optimistically) if there will be a video dedicated to step by step of the benchwork construction? (please, please). Thanks.
The Carolina Coal Co. appears to be a discontinued Walthers Kit. I remember modeling it many years ago but can't find it now. Any suggestions?
My wife and I are going to try and build this, waiting for the benchwork plans in the February issue! But I was wondering if you could alter this slightly to use a 22" minimum radius on the mainline?
I moved house and was looking for ideas, I lost my bungalow in the move, so this layout would suit the garage (and still park the car) Great videos too
I love the light hearted humor guys!
Great Video and great ideas
This looks really great. I've already ordered what I needed to build my own version.
curious if the other project layouts could tie into each other or the mighty MR&T? super work as always from the staff, and yeah we have a MR bar just like yours (:
Looking forward to watching your progress and to incorporating some ideas into my layout.
Nice job on the configuration and flexibility David!
Watched a lot this on the webcam, looking forward to seeing the end result!
Always love the project railroads.
Neat!!!
Looks like another great project railroad. I always seem to get great ideas from them.
Looking forward to your progress in completing this project. Show your work and the tools to get-er done. Thx much!
can't wait until the January issue is on the stand
Looking very much forward to this project. I already have a rudimentary 'car float' and am interested in how to improve it and the surrounding waterfront. I too envy the beautiful lumber you're using. Must be Canadian stuff from British Columbia.
nice little layout
WOW! Such lumber! Absolutely perfect! Assume it was selected for its elegance and photo appeal. Just like David and Hal. Off to a good start.