There’s a strong chance I’ll be tearing out my entire layout and starting over. And the principal reason? Let’s just say it’s a combination of frustration, failed experiments, and some hard-learned lessons. Here’s the story behind the decision.
When Trains Stop Running…
Lately, I haven’t been running my layout as much as I’d like. Sure, I’ve been tinkering with projects, making updates, and doing some research, but actual train runs? Not so much. When I decided to do a July update video featuring a new CP consist, things took a turn for the worse. I couldn’t even get the train to run—no power to the tracks. And I hadn’t messed with the wiring at all!
Upon inspection, I discovered something alarming: the wires at the main power distribution block were detached, with the ends mysteriously missing. After some quick fixes involving trimming, restripping, and tinning the wires, I managed to get the train running. But then, more issues cropped up.
The Straw That Broke the Camel’s Back
I tried to run the train around the track, only to have it continuously derail at certain turnouts. A closer look revealed that the point rails had detached from the throw bar. Over the past few months, I’ve made the same repair to at least eight or ten turnouts. The culprit? Acid-based flux.
For those unfamiliar, flux is used in soldering to clean and prepare surfaces. Acid-based flux, however, is a no-no for model railroading because it deteriorates solder joints over time and can damage electronics. It suddenly made sense why my trackwork and electronics were failing.
When I inspected my hidden staging area, I found that half of the turnouts had failed. The access hatches I designed to retrieve derailed cars weren’t meant for repairing hand-laid turnouts. What I’m left with is a layout that’s unreliable and difficult to repair. Starting over seems like the only option.
Frustration Meets Opportunity
I won’t sugarcoat it—I’m frustrated. But, in a strange way, I’m also relieved. This gives me the chance to address many issues I’ve had with this layout that I’ve never fully discussed before. So, what went wrong, and how do I plan to fix it?
1. Track and Turnouts: Lessons Learned
First, never again will I use acid flux. I hand-laid over 38 turnouts using a Fast Tracks jig, and while it was satisfying, the results just haven’t been reliable. On top of that, I made the mistake of trying to fit too much track into too small a space, opting for number five turnouts. In hindsight, that was a bad decision—especially for running passenger equipment. Moving forward, I’ll be using larger radius turnouts, likely number eight minimum.
I also chose code 55 track because it looks prototypical and beautiful, but it’s far less reliable than a greater gauge. My trains never derailed on my friend Darren’s layout, which uses Pico turnouts and code 80 rail. But on my layout? Constant problems. I’ve learned that compromising operation for realism isn’t worth it.
2. Overcomplicating the Wiring
In the spirit of saving money, I decided to use Arduino-controlled turnout servos. While I enjoyed the process of programming and setting them up, the servos have proven unreliable. Some continually hum, and others simply stop working. The wiring has become overwhelming, taking away from the enjoyment of running trains and modeling.
3. Benchwork and Climate Control Woes
This year, I’ve had challenges with my benchwork. Despite having a climate-controlled basement, the benchwork has warped, causing tracks to buckle and pop up. I soldered every joint, leaving no room for give as the benchwork shifted. The result? A layout that continues to shift and cause unreliability.
The Masonite backdrop I installed has also started to wave across the room, pushing against buildings and retaining walls. It’s clear that the materials and construction methods I used just aren’t working.
Five Major Changes I’m Excited to Make
Reconsider Hidden Staging: While the idea of hidden staging was appealing, it’s become more of a headache than it’s worth. I want to see my trains run and be able to access them easily. Hidden staging might be great for operations, but when it doesn’t work, it’s a nightmare.
Simplify the Layout: I overcomplicated the design of this layout, trying to fit too much into too small a space. Moving forward, I’ll focus on a simpler, more reliable track plan that doesn’t compromise operation for aesthetics.
Reduce Hidden Track: I want to see my trains run, not spend 40% of their time out of view. I’ll be minimizing the amount of hidden track and avoiding helixes altogether.
Stick to 2% Grades: I miscalculated the grades on this layout, resulting in grades closer to 3.5%. For the next iteration, 2% will be the maximum, no questions asked.
Modular Design: I want the next layout to be more modular, allowing me to work on individual scenes at the workbench rather than leaning over the layout. This will make it easier to create detailed structures and scenes without the hassle.
What’s Next?
Unfortunately, I won’t be able to save any of the track, and I have no use for the number five turnouts. However, I’ll save all the detailed structures, bridges, and retaining walls. I’ve also decided to sell some of my rolling stock to finance the new layout.
The new layout will still focus on Toronto’s Union Station, but I’m considering changing it to a stub-end station to save space. I’ll also be adding more natural topography, integrating a small green space into the urban landscape.
A Learning Experience
Every decision I made with this layout was done with the best intentions, but I have no problem admitting I made some mistakes. The combination of those mistakes has a greater weight than the effort it would take to repair them, so starting over seems like the best option.
I’m not happy about the situation, but I’m excited about the opportunity to create something better. And don’t worry—the dystopia will be resurrected as quickly as possible. I’m confident that the next version of this layout will be something I’ll enjoy even more.
As always, I appreciate your support, and I’m eager to hear your thoughts. Let’s start this journey together—again.
