Takadanobaba Station in Alameda

The Takadanobaba layout is taking shape -- in bytes, bits and pixels. Well, sort of. If you were to look at what I have the reality is there's a long way to go. The reason is that I'm learning how to use the 3rd Planit track planning software. They do have a tutorial and that's been helpful, but I've also been trying the old "trial and error" method of teaching myself.  The good news is that I have defined the room and the benchwork. The track board (also defined) will sit above the benchwork. That height is to be determined. I tried to draw track and then I ran into a hitch. I can pick out a track element and place it on the track board. I need to learn how to connect them and to properly space them. Lots to learn. Lots of fun. Cheers.

I was looking for a stretch project in modeling Japanese commuter trains.  I think I got more than I bargained for.  The first thing that I realized is that I'm modeling in a non-traditional scale.  Japanese commuter trains run on narrow gauge track. But, they are manufactured to run on 9mm n scale track. The off-the-shelf models from Kato and Tomix clock in at 1:150. That's just a smidgen larger than n scale at 1:160. I looked up a 1:150 scale ruler and found one on Amazon. I ordered it, super pronto.  Then . . . I discovered that the ruler is in meters. I'll have to access my faded 7th grade memories and remember how to use the metric system. Maybe there's a YouTube video.

I taking a break. I'm building a multi-deck layout in N scale based on Chicago belt line railroad operations ( The B&OCT in N Scale - read that blog here ). I still need to come up with a better name. It's a big project and has gotten overwhelming. On top of that, I had shoulder surgery in November. It has curbed my agility.  I'm looking to take on a small project -- something that could be achievable in a reasonable length of time and will stretch my modeling skills. I'm getting the idea that those skills will be really tested. This blog is about that project. The writing below was my first post on this topic -- on my other blog. It gives an introduction.  Come along for the ride. I think it will be an interesting journey. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * I’ve been watching a lot of TV lately. That’s because I’m recovering from rotator cuff surgery on my left shoulder. That has limited a lot o