SPAD

Well folks, here I go again..... After seding Foxfield Tunnel to the 'Great big layout graveyard in the sky', and after a breif break from modelling, I've decided to have another go!! "Why Llandudno?" you might ask. Well, firstly, now having very limited space for a layout, a large run round layout or end-to-end is just not possible so a terminus it would have to be. Secondly, I always said that the next layout would be collapsable for both storage and transporting, with the faint possibility of exhibiting it in mind. Thirdly, I want to model as near (or not) as i possibly can to a modern prototype location without it being too elaborate of course. And fourthly, who doesn't like going to the seaside eh!! With all that in mind, chuck in a couple of salvaged 1.4m x 30ish cm baseboards and hey presto Llandudno, or as I like to call it 'Llandudnot'. My main interest is running prototypical stock to a real timetable but I really like the idea of having a go at modelling a 'real' station which will be a first for me! Compromises will have to be made and progress will be slow, but pictures will follow...........Its gonna be an Arriva Trains Wales overload!!

R.I.P Foxfield. Off its popped to the great big grave yard of layouts in the sky!!!

Hi there I'd be very interested to see how this goes for you as I'm seriously considering trying one of these 323 conversons out for myself. On viewing your picture, the cab etches seem to look very crisp and well detailed. Good luck!

Maybank to Radley Jnc in N Gauge by SPAD original page on Old RMweb __________________________________________ Comment posted by JZjr on Fri Aug 28, 2009 9:59 am I have driven a voyager down to Blackbrook once... I get bored easily! __________________________________________ ??? posted on Sat Aug 29, 2009 11:53 am Freight Update 2 Just lightly weathered up my new Dapol spine wagons (10 in total) and put them straight to work. I've read some mixed reports about these flats. But in my opinion (and I'm no rivet counter), on-the-whole I think they look really great. Yes, the ones I've recieved do very, very slightly bow at either end, but hardly noticable. Just waiting for a couple of Megafrets to join them now 001.JPG Low emission 66952 hauls the 4M21 10 31 Maybank down to Kings Road empty flats. (152.21 KiB) 005.JPG Again 66952 running up Foxfield bank. (150.95 KiB) 002.JPG Passing a spot of signal maintenance. (91.43 KiB) __________________________________________ Comment posted by sithlord75 on Mon Aug 31, 2009 7:38 am Just caught up on this thread again. si_berian_tiger wrote: The good old 100t bogie tank. I always remember consists coming through Lincoln behind a 60. My uni friends always wondered if they were actually carrying tea! Only thing that lets the wagons down for me is the huuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuge gap between them! If you run them in a fixed rate, you may want to look at the N Brass close couplers. I have a rake of TEA's behind a 60 (60012 in fake LNER Garter Blue waiting for names plates) and use Unimate short shanks in mine. Closed the gap up nicely. I replaced the rapido at one with a short shank vesion I had in my bits box (dunno where it came from) and a short NEM one in the 60 (other end of the 60 has the detailing pack in it) sorted that gap too while still allowing things like my old 47 to haul the rake. I like the Unimates for fixed rakes as they are a twist in/twist out with the Rapidos and allow for reversal should you desire it. __________________________________________ ??? posted on Fri Oct 09, 2009 2:06 pm The Central 156's have arrived at Whitminster depot and put straight to work!! 007.jpg 156429 on 2F09 0926 Blackbrook - Radley Jnc stopper. (68.4 KiB) The main diagram which brings the 156's through Foxfield is NT602, Blackbrook - Riverside/Radley Jnc (via Salford Bridge) stoppers. This diagram works in conjunction with NT301 and NT806 (153+158 combo). 156dia1.jpg Diagram NT602. (114.02 KiB) The 156's are also used on the Salford Bridge - Hobbs Cross/Wellingham Ludgate Hill route and substituted on the Maybank - Hammerwich route. 156dia2.jpg Diagram NT601. (48.44 KiB) NT601 seems only a short diagram, but uses the unit all day!! 001.JPG 156429 on the return 2F12 1020 Radley Jnc - Blackbrook stopper. (87 KiB) 014.jpg Again 156429 on 2F13 1226 Blackbrook - Radley Jnc stopper. (63.91 KiB) I must congratulate Dapol on a lovely little model. It runs great and really looks the part. Just helped along by a little gentle weathering. I know i keep mentioning the Working Timetable I've devised for the Maybank - Hammerwich route. Been having a few problems in transfering it onto my webspace .I'm not realy into the web design stuff. If anyone's interested in viewing it I can always e-mail out. An easier option I think! __________________________________________

Maybank to Radley Jnc in N Gauge by SPAD original page on Old RMweb __________________________________________ Comment posted by jongwinnett on Thu Jul 23, 2009 9:47 pm Seeing the t-bird raises a question (i was looking at one at lunchtime in't shop as well). Has anyone fitted a dellner box to the front of one? I'd like one day to recreate this: http://www.jon612.fotopic.net/p26307278.html Sorry for hijacking (again!) __________________________________________ ??? posted on Thu Jul 23, 2009 9:52 pm jongwinnett wrote: Seeing the t-bird raises a question (i was looking at one at lunchtime in't shop as well). Has anyone fitted a dellner box to the front of one? I'd like one day to recreate this: http://www.jon612.fotopic.net/p26307278.html Sorry for hijacking (again!) Good question, one I've asked myself before now. Not sure if any manufacturer makes one. I would certainly fit one if I could. __________________________________________ Comment posted by agentskj on Fri Jul 24, 2009 12:05 pm SPAD wrote: agentskj wrote: Love the layout are you going to put it on the exhqbvtion circuit How do the e*n guage stuff run its been years since i have done this scale makes a return pretty tempting How do you do the snow effect Sam Hello Sam. Thanks for your interest. Fixed layout unfortunately, so no exhibitions. Never thought it would ever make the grade for exhibiting. These days N gauge manufacturers are really pulling all the stops out with there latest releases. Real good running qualities, easier DCC fitting, working headlights and excellent body mouldings and finishes. Well worth the plunge if your considering it, also the obvious benifit of getting more railway in a smaller space. The snow used is made by Woodland Scenics. Once the under growth was laid and set down, the snow was lightly sprinkled on top. I only wanted a light dusting so I could still see the winter grass underneath. I decided not to glue the snow down as I wasn't sure if I would like it at first. If I wanted too I could easily vaccum it off. SPAD Hellow spad , The snow certainly does make the grade but the idea of not gluing down seams v good - does the loose fibres not venture into the track causing problems with motors whqt trqck qre you using and where can i source it and also the stock could you email me the pictures - i will pm u you my email Shame it is a fixed layout as there is a disint lack of snow/cold layouts Sam __________________________________________ ??? posted on Fri Jul 24, 2009 2:45 pm agentskj wrote: Hellow spad , The snow certainly does make the grade but the idea of not gluing down seams v good - does the loose fibres not venture into the track causing problems with motors whqt trqck qre you using and where can i source it and also the stock could you email me the pictures - i will pm u you my email Shame it is a fixed layout as there is a disint lack of snow/cold layouts Sam Hi Sam. I decided not to cover the track with snow so as to avoid any problems with loose fibres getting into motors. The track I've used is the usual Peco code 55 with concrete sleepers. This I'm sure is available in pretty much every model rail outlet. Most of my purchases I buy online from a well known retailer in Liverpool.....Ebay is also a good place to look, particularly for stock. Picked up a few bargains here!! I'll certainly send you some more pictures of my stock, though I will be updating my post on a regular basis. Glad you've enjoyed what I've done so far and also for giving you some inspiration. Cheers __________________________________________ ??? posted on Sat Jul 25, 2009 12:42 pm I've been asked by one or two members if Foxfield Tunnel is available for exhibitions. Unfortunately it isn't. It was never built to be portable, and more so I never thought it would make exhibition quality. This has got me thinking though. I'm sort of deliberating whether or not to build a portable layout with the idea of taking it to exhibitions, thats if I think its good enough. Again I'm turning to the NWM route for inspiration. Off the top of my head I know there's Blackbrook which would make an ideal small N gauge layout. Blackbrook is a small rural town of which its station is at the end of the severed branch line from Whitminster. The station looks like its situated on the edge of a modern housing estate and looks quite basic in its appearence, small booking office/waiting room and a short platfrom, 4cars at the most. Road bridge at the other end for a good scenic break and what seems to be a small industrial unit sandwiching the station between the housing estate. Lots of detail I think..... I quite like the appeal of linking the two layouts together, (photography wise anyway) as some services which run from Blackbrook to Radley Jnc actually pass through Foxfield Tunnel. 006.JPG 158783 on 2F34 09 20 Radley Jnc to Blackbrook via Salford Bridge. (89.28 KiB) Maybe a new post might be springing up soon, Blackbrook to Radley Jnc, dont want to be accused of overkilling the NWM thing mind you!! __________________________________________ Comment posted by KingDaveRa on Sat Jul 25, 2009 12:55 pm That's really quite sweet. Very rare to see something different like snow. Shame it can't get out and about. I did see a European layout at Wycrail a year or two ago which was entirely snow covered. Even had that sparkle to it. I stared at that one for a while! __________________________________________ Comment posted by agentskj on Sat Jul 25, 2009 1:32 pm KingDaveRa wrote: That's really quite sweet. Very rare to see something different like snow. Shame it can't get out and about. I did see a European layout at Wycrail a year or two ago which was entirely snow covered. Even had that sparkle to it. I stared at that one for a while! I seam to rember that - the name for goes me but i zill when i return home next week have a dip into the archives and can put some photos up if people want not sure how good they will be as i only got an slr this year too late as usual Sam Agent skj __________________________________________ Comment posted by agentskj on Sat Jul 25, 2009 1:33 pm SPAD wrote: I've been asked by one or two members if Foxfield Tunnel is available for exhibitions. Unfortunately it isn't. It was never built to be portable, and more so I never thought it would make exhibition quality. This has got me thinking though. I'm sort of deliberating whether or not to build a portable layout with the idea of taking it to exhibitions, thats if I think its good enough. Again I'm turning to the NWM route for inspiration. Off the top of my head I know there's Blackbrook which would make an ideal small N gauge layout. Blackbrook is a small rural town of which its station is at the end of the severed branch line from Whitminster. The station looks like its situated on the edge of a modern housing estate and looks quite basic in its appearence, small booking office/waiting room and a short platfrom, 4cars at the most. Road bridge at the other end for a good scenic break and what seems to be a small industrial unit sandwiching the station between the housing estate. Lots of detail I think..... I quite like the appeal of linking the two layouts together, (photography wise anyway) as some services which run from Blackbrook to Radley Jnc actually pass through Foxfield Tunnel. 006.JPG Maybe a new post might be springing up soon, Blackbrook to Radley Jnc, dont want to be accused of overkilling the NWM thing mind you!! SPAD Your new layout must have the snowi like it that ,uch people on here will be able to advise you i am sure __________________________________________ ??? posted on Sat Jul 25, 2009 2:03 pm agentskj wrote: SPAD wrote: I've been asked by one or two members if Foxfield Tunnel is available for exhibitions. Unfortunately it isn't. It was never built to be portable, and more so I never thought it would make exhibition quality. This has got me thinking though. I'm sort of deliberating whether or not to build a portable layout with the idea of taking it to exhibitions, thats if I think its good enough. Again I'm turning to the NWM route for inspiration. Off the top of my head I know there's Blackbrook which would make an ideal small N gauge layout. Blackbrook is a small rural town of which its station is at the end of the severed branch line from Whitminster. The station looks like its situated on the edge of a modern housing estate and looks quite basic in its appearence, small booking office/waiting room and a short platfrom, 4cars at the most. Road bridge at the other end for a good scenic break and what seems to be a small industrial unit sandwiching the station between the housing estate. Lots of detail I think..... I quite like the appeal of linking the two layouts together, (photography wise anyway) as some services which run from Blackbrook to Radley Jnc actually pass through Foxfield Tunnel. 006.JPG Maybe a new post might be springing up soon, Blackbrook to Radley Jnc, dont want to be accused of overkilling the NWM thing mind you!! SPAD Your new layout must have the snowi like it that ,uch people on here will be able to advise you i am sure The snow will definately be present. __________________________________________ Comment posted by sammyboy on Sat Jul 25, 2009 2:17 pm Totally brill layout, love the winter snow scene which you don't get many winter based layouts around much nowadays!! Also the layout is very insperational with the bleak rural scenery. I'm also a fellow N gauge modeller who changed from OO recently because of the small space in my small bedroom. I was talking to a mate of mine at my local MRC last night who says you can't build spectacular scenery like you have in N gauge. Sam __________________________________________ ??? posted on Sat Jul 25, 2009 3:39 pm sammyboy wrote: Totally brill layout, love the winter snow scene which you don't get many winter based layouts around much nowadays!! Also the layout is very insperational with the bleak rural scenery. I'm also a fellow N gauge modeller who changed from OO recently because of the small space in my small bedroom. I was talking to a mate of mine at my local MRC last night who says you can't build spectacular scenery like you have in N gauge. Sam Hi Sam Like yourself I've also modelled OO before, all-be-it half heartedly, and my layout is also based in the box room. You can't beat N gauge if you wish to get alot of scenery into a small space, Foxfield Tunnel just proves that. I wouldn't exactly call my scenery spectacular but I do like realism in a layout. I'm no experienced modeller either but I'm certainly happy with the results. Thanks for your comments, much appreciated. __________________________________________ Comment posted by agentskj on Sat Jul 25, 2009 6:35 pm SPAD wrote: sammyboy wrote: Totally brill layout, love the winter snow scene which you don't get many winter based layouts around much nowadays!! Also the layout is very insperational with the bleak rural scenery. I'm also a fellow N gauge modeller who changed from OO recently because of the small space in my small bedroom. I was talking to a mate of mine at my local MRC last night who says you can't build spectacular scenery like you have in N gauge. Sam Hi Sam Like yourself I've also modelled OO before, all-be-it half heartedly, and my layout is also based in the box room. You can't beat N gauge if you wish to get alot of scenery into a small space, Foxfield Tunnel just proves that. I wouldn't exactly call my scenery spectacular but I do like realism in a layout. I'm no experienced modeller either but I'm certainly happy with the results. Thanks for your comments, much appreciated. SPAD Good quality scenery is no problem it is just fiddly because of the size but 00 is a big advantage as ,uch stuff is avliable for this scale I have been investigqting n and decided thqt its off the shelf or RTR __________________________________________ ??? posted on Sat Aug 22, 2009 11:48 am The 150's are put to work!! Finally got my first Farish 150. Love it! . The unit was out to work straight away on diagram NT102, the largest of the three diagrams allocated for the 150's. 150smalldia.jpg (96.19 KiB) 052.JPG 150125 on 2S02 06 26 Maybank to Salford Bridge stopper. Next stop Highgate. (42.04 KiB) Just waiting for the Dapol 156 in Central colours, also if Dapol are true to their word, a 153 aswell. 050.JPG Rush hour. Scooting down Foxfield, 150125 on 2M03 08 42 Radley Junction to Maybank stopper. Next stop Steelhouse Lane. (156.94 KiB) 051.JPG Rush hour over, 150125 on 2S07 09 46 Maybank to Radley Junction stopper. (121.9 KiB) 045.JPG 150125 on 2M10 15 11 Salford Bridge to Maybank stopper. Next stop Steelhouse Lane. Passing is late running 170514, standing in for a failed 156. (98.91 KiB) The Working Timetable i've been working on is almost ready for viewing, well at least the Up workings are anyway. Hopefully one or two vids on Youtube before long......... __________________________________________ Comment posted by Ben A on Sat Aug 22, 2009 7:09 pm Wow! What a simple but beautifully evocative layout. Really plays to the strengths of N. I've only just spotted this thread - glad I did. A question: Apart from the steel train, what other freight do you run? cheers Ben A. __________________________________________ ??? posted on Sat Aug 22, 2009 7:40 pm Thanks for your interest Ben, much appreciated. There's a number of freight workings that run through Foxfield Tunnel. Because the Salford line loops the main Maybank to Hammerwich line up until Frankley Junction, its used alot for freight, diverting away from the main express line. Apart from the steel workings to Salford, there's a number of coal workings going to and from Brookfield Yard, oil trains to and from Warwick Road unloading point, and some longer distance freightliner workings. The diagrams are there, just need to build up my freight wagon collection before posting up some more pics!! 005_0001.jpg Heading north is 66200 on 6M21 from Brookfield Yard. (44.74 KiB) Regards __________________________________________ Comment posted by adamkellymoderngauge on Sun Aug 23, 2009 3:31 am The new Farish 150 looks right at home in the cutting...only a day till I get mine to run. I can imagine it runs as good as it looks... __________________________________________ ??? posted on Thu Aug 27, 2009 4:46 pm Freight Update!! Just recived some Farish "TEA's". Freight stock slowly building up. 60052.jpg 60052 'Tower Colliery' on 6M60 14 42 Warwick Road Unloading Point empties to Maybank down sidings. (63.39 KiB) After a crew change at Maybank, the train heads north eastwards. 002.JPG Another shot of 60052 rumbling down the bank at Foxfield Tunnel. (145.15 KiB) __________________________________________ Comment posted by si_berian_tiger on Thu Aug 27, 2009 4:53 pm The good old 100t bogie tank. I always remember consists coming through Lincoln behind a 60. My uni friends always wondered if they were actually carrying tea! Only thing that lets the wagons down for me is the huuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuge gap between them! If you run them in a fixed rate, you may want to look at the N Brass close couplers. __________________________________________ ??? posted on Thu Aug 27, 2009 5:34 pm si_berian_tiger wrote: The good old 100t bogie tank. I always remember consists coming through Lincoln behind a 60. My uni friends always wondered if they were actually carrying tea! Only thing that lets the wagons down for me is the huuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuge gap between them! If you run them in a fixed rate, you may want to look at the N Brass close couplers. Must agree with you on the rather large gap. N Brass couplers sound like a good idea to me. Thanks for that. __________________________________________ Comment posted by si_berian_tiger on Thu Aug 27, 2009 5:46 pm If you aren't familiar with them, then my workbench thread will explain how they work. I fitted them to a a pair of Mk.1 coaches and also a 158. Just be aware they are not suitable for all rolling stock or for curves under 3rd radius (12" approx). However, the gap on the TEA's is soo vast I would imagine they could traverse 2nd radius curves with the modified couplings! __________________________________________ Comment posted by JZjr on Thu Aug 27, 2009 7:43 pm WOW! I often drive the NWM route on BVE. Using this as inspiration for a layout never even entered my head! That layout looks GREAT! Well done, it is really of exhibition quality! For an exhibition layout, Blackbrook has its pros and at least one con; PROS; Compact, Short Trains (at most a 3 car 158). CON; Not many trains and little variety. As it is N you are modelling maybe Burntwood or Rockley, (I'm peering down at my little sheet of paper with all the stops on it ) Maybe even Brookfield or Quarry Bank. __________________________________________ ??? posted on Thu Aug 27, 2009 9:11 pm JZjr wrote: WOW! I often drive the NWM route on BVE. Using this as inspiration for a layout never even entered my head! That layout looks GREAT! Well done, it is really of exhibition quality! For an exhibition layout, Blackbrook has its pros and at least one con; PROS; Compact, Short Trains (at most a 3 car 158). CON; Not many trains and little variety. As it is N you are modelling maybe Burntwood or Rockley, (I'm peering down at my little sheet of paper with all the stops on it ) Maybe even Brookfield or Quarry Bank. Many thanks for your comments, much appreciated. NWM really is a great sim. Been driving trains over the route for a few years now, loving the Salford loop in particular. Before building Foxfield Tunnel I always tried to build prototype locations, always giving up halfway through. Then came the brain wave of picking a location from NWM, not actual real life locations, but real life fiction (!?!). This allowed for a certain level of accuracy in the modelling (with a little use of the old 'modellers license' ) and also the running of the railway itself (diagrams, timetables etc.), which is of particular interest to me. I know what you mean about the lack of variety of trains and with Blackbrook only having an hourly service. According to my diagrams, 153 156 combo and 158's would be the usual traction, throwing in a top and tail permanant way train for good measure. Was considering Blackbrook purely because its a terminus, which makes an exhibition layout a little easier to construct (no loops or large fiddle yards). I have even considered Hobbs Cross, but again its got a through line Still definately on the drawing board __________________________________________ Comment posted by JZjr on Thu Aug 27, 2009 9:53 pm Hobbs Cross would certainly be an interesting one! I see what you mean about the terminus idea. As well as the 153, 156 and 158's on the new NWM diagrams there are 142's and 143's, the latter not being available in N or OO. Not sure about a 142 in N there may be a possibility of Dapol making one? __________________________________________ Comment posted by Torn-on-the-platform on Thu Aug 27, 2009 10:11 pm I'm not a fan of N gauge or Modern Image, but this layout is absolutely fantastic! I am very impressed __________________________________________ ??? posted on Fri Aug 28, 2009 6:54 am JZjr wrote: Hobbs Cross would certainly be an interesting one! I see what you mean about the terminus idea. As well as the 153, 156 and 158's on the new NWM diagrams there are 142's and 143's, the latter not being available in N or OO. Not sure about a 142 in N there may be a possibility of Dapol making one? I know that Worsley Works has recently released a rather nice etched kit for the 142, just an issue motorising it though. I seem to have read a thread on this site comparing the wheel base of the 142 to that of a VBA van (i think ). Though the 142/143 cab sims are excellent in BVE, they're not prototypically midland units, thats me just coming away from the ficticious side of NWM and coming into the real world!!! I do tend to change the traction on the diagrams that use the 143 cab for that reason. __________________________________________

Maybank to Radley Jnc in N Gauge by SPAD original page on Old RMweb __________________________________________ Comment posted by Flying Pig on Mon Jul 13, 2009 5:24 pm SPAD wrote: I love it (and I had a hand in the original). But how on earth did you get it to back the other way? __________________________________________ ??? posted on Mon Jul 13, 2009 7:00 pm Hi Simon. Glad you like. Hope I'm not misunderstanding you here, but i presume you mean how do I get the return journey from Salford steel to Maybank Ok then, in my own little NWM world, the 60 runs into Salford turnback, shunts back up Salford down siding, detatches wagons, returns back to the turnback, an 08 picks up the wagons and takes into the steel terminal, they then do their business, the 60 then shunts back up the down siding, the 08 shunts the empties back up the spur where the 60 reverses up to the empties, hooks up and away she goes. Again sorry if I'm completely off the mark here. __________________________________________ Comment posted by Flying Pig on Mon Jul 13, 2009 8:04 pm SPAD wrote: Hi Simon. Glad you like. Hope I'm not misunderstanding you here, but i presume you mean how do I get the return journey from Salford steel to Maybank Your return working makes perfect sense (and looks wonderful) - it's just rather hard to do in BVE __________________________________________ ??? posted on Mon Jul 13, 2009 9:46 pm Down at the trackside!! 011a.jpg (32.61 KiB) 012.JPG Bit blurry 220019 Mersey Voyager on 1M08 Gatwick Airport to Manchester Picc via Salford Bridge. Stand back!! (131.03 KiB) Back to the tree's Steve. Most of the specimen tree's shown below are between 10-14cms, the ones growing on top of Foxfield Tunnel are about 9-10cms. There's also a few smaller sapplings, 4-5cms. The row of poplar tree's shown below are about 14cms high 010.JPG 158783 on 2M09 1348 Frankley Jnc to Maybank via Salford Bridge stopper. (32.03 KiB) __________________________________________ Comment posted by samkiller42 on Mon Jul 13, 2009 10:42 pm Wow, love the first first picture you've shown with the Voyager sweeping around, and is great to see super elevation too, as it's something you don't see all to often in my opinion. Anyway, keep the shots comming. Sam __________________________________________ ??? posted on Thu Jul 16, 2009 6:36 pm Hello to everyone. Another little update. As previously mentioned, I'm interested in the operational side of railways and always intended running Foxfield Tunnel as part of a 'real' railway (NWM). After spending quite some time devising a complete (about 80% done) fictional Working TimeTable for the line from Maybank to North Midland Jnc (jnc situated to the north of Norton), I turned to the traction diagrams. It was OK having the timetable in place but I also needed to ensure that the trains were there too! Below is a diagram for one of the Norton based 158's (this plus other units are outbased at Whitminster carriage servicing depot). 001.JPG 158783 on 2M12 1611 Salford Bridge to Maybank stopper. (84.11 KiB) 158doc.jpg NWM Diagram NT805 (103.72 KiB) Thought I'd link some vids that I'm slowly putting on Youtube. Enjoy __________________________________________ Comment posted by adamkellymoderngauge on Fri Jul 17, 2009 4:20 am I love the simplicity and open landscape, Modern N gauge is the way forward. Reminds me of the Pennine express route towards penistone. Superb Adam __________________________________________ Comment posted by jongwinnett on Fri Jul 17, 2009 7:27 am Just wanted to add my voice to the chorus of approval. This is simply stunning... I particularly liked the fact the tunnel was dark inside - a real sense of cutting through the earth, not a model plonked on a table top. I must also revise my opinion to the woodland scenics risers - I had (clearly quite wrongly) dismissed them as toy like, but this is a superbly realised model. Bravo! __________________________________________ Comment posted by Clay Country on Fri Jul 17, 2009 8:19 am Just caught up with this thread, absolutely stunning layout The snow is really effective and gives a very different feel to all the summertime layouts out there! __________________________________________ Comment posted by James on Fri Jul 17, 2009 8:59 am SPAD wrote: 012.JPG I like that! I like to see staff modelled and the groups you've got them in look just right to me The whole scene looks very convincing; winter's not often modelled and it seems when it is there's three foot of snow on the ground! The scene looks mid mroning to me; not quite sure why but it has a feeling of an overcast morning with fresh frost on the ground. THe sort of morning where you can't feel your feet by lunchtime! __________________________________________ Comment posted by 30-something on Fri Jul 17, 2009 9:46 am Fantastic! I love this layout, the quality of the latest releases layouts like yours have started me slowly stockpiling stock for a future N project (mid 80's WCML based with a container terminal as the main feature) Keep up the good work and I look forward to seeing more photos! __________________________________________ ??? posted on Sun Jul 19, 2009 8:09 am James wrote: SPAD wrote: The attachment 012.JPG is no longer available I like that! I like to see staff modelled and the groups you've got them in look just right to me The whole scene looks very convincing; winter's not often modelled and it seems when it is there's three foot of snow on the ground! The scene looks mid mroning to me; not quite sure why but it has a feeling of an overcast morning with fresh frost on the ground. THe sort of morning where you can't feel your feet by lunchtime! I love your description of the winter landscape, sounds just right to me. I know what you meen about the 'overdoing' of snow. Whilst that looks OK for some, I still wanted to be able to see the dead grass just lying underneath the thin layer of snow and the sprawling patches of bramble and gorse (gorse and some bramble being evergreen hence the green), all the usual types of vegetation you see along our railway lines. The workmen are there due to some replacement track laying going on just beyond the road bridge. Still got to find the ever-present white Transit van to go with them 009.JPG 220023 Mancunian Voyager on the 0840 Reading to Manchester Picc via Salford Bridge. Next stop Whitminster. (158.84 KiB) __________________________________________ ??? posted on Sun Jul 19, 2009 8:31 am jongwinnett wrote: Just wanted to add my voice to the chorus of approval. This is simply stunning... I particularly liked the fact the tunnel was dark inside - a real sense of cutting through the earth, not a model plonked on a table top. I must also revise my opinion to the woodland scenics risers - I had (clearly quite wrongly) dismissed them as toy like, but this is a superbly realised model. Bravo! Many thanks for your comments. The woodland scenic risers for me were the only option for the job in hand. Really easy to use, set them down to any shape you want and most important for me, the realistic gentle incline you achieve I think I would of found it very hard to get that look using any other method. Once all the landscaping's in place you wouldn't know they were their 007.JPG 220019 Mersey Voyager on the 1M14 0940 Reading to Maybank via Salford Bridge. (71.11 KiB) __________________________________________ Comment posted by jongwinnett on Sun Jul 19, 2009 8:41 am Cheers SPAD I liked one of the earlier shots so much its now my wallpaper on my computer! I've succumbed to the N gauge bug and have purchased a pair of Dapol 156s which are whirring round in circles on the dining room table as we speak. Of to Hobbycraft for supplies for a little test dio this afternoon... 15 Years ago I was modelling in 7mm. At this rate, but the time I'm 55 i'll be doing T gauge. Does this BVE thing (never heard of it before this thread) have other fictional networks? __________________________________________ ??? posted on Sun Jul 19, 2009 9:28 am jongwinnett wrote: Cheers SPAD I liked one of the earlier shots so much its now my wallpaper on my computer! I've succumbed to the N gauge bug and have purchased a pair of Dapol 156s which are whirring round in circles on the dining room table as we speak. Of to Hobbycraft for supplies for a little test dio this afternoon... 15 Years ago I was modelling in 7mm. At this rate, but the time I'm 55 i'll be doing T gauge. Does this BVE thing (never heard of it before this thread) have other fictional networks? Wow, one of my shots as your wallpaper, I'm honoured Cant wait for the Dapol 156 in Central livery. Be very much at home at Foxfield Tunnel. Already got some diagrams set out for it. BVE is fantastic, so addictive. Click this link and it will take you TrainSimCentral's home page. There you'll find Maybank and many more sims for you to download, plus its all freeware http://www.trainsimcentral.co.uk Regards __________________________________________ Comment posted by jongwinnett on Mon Jul 20, 2009 1:10 pm Thanks SPAD - I've checked it out and it looks very interesting. Must see if there's a Scotrail version Any chance of a plan of your layout? I've read your description but am having difficulty visualising the scenic set up as part of the U. How sharp are your hidden curves? Cheers, __________________________________________ Comment posted by ajdown on Mon Jul 20, 2009 2:34 pm Very nice indeed. It's very rare to see a layout based out in the countryside, no station or anything. It's very inspiring in many ways, and I wish I had space for another layout at the moment - because if I did, this is what I'd steal ideas from. __________________________________________ ??? posted on Mon Jul 20, 2009 6:21 pm jongwinnett wrote: Thanks SPAD - I've checked it out and it looks very interesting. Must see if there's a Scotrail version Any chance of a plan of your layout? I've read your description but am having difficulty visualising the scenic set up as part of the U. How sharp are your hidden curves? Cheers, Done you a quick trackplan, apologies for the quality but I hope it gives you an idea of the set up. Never drew out a proper trackplan for Foxfield Tunnel, just made it up as I went along so-to-speak. The hidden curves at either end are not too sharp, the worst one being on the right hand side. Some behind the scenes shots (probably the only ones ) which I hope gives you some sort of impression. trackplan.jpg (90.43 KiB) 019.JPG Right hand side hidden curve. (81.85 KiB) 018.JPG Right hand side hidden curve. (49.89 KiB) 021.JPG Left hand side hidden curve which runs underneath Foxfield Tunnel. (53.68 KiB) 020.JPG Left hand side hidden curve. (34.87 KiB) Used to be one or two Scotrail sims but on having a quick look around, it seems they've vanished Thanks for your interest, __________________________________________ Comment posted by jongwinnett on Mon Jul 20, 2009 6:54 pm Thanks (again!) SPAd Very interesting - makes sense now. Being new to N I'm still getting a feel for what one can get away with - my test circle is Peco third radius (11.25" I think) but that's too tight for the 156 to be close coupled it seems. __________________________________________ ??? posted on Mon Jul 20, 2009 7:10 pm jongwinnett wrote: Thanks (again!) SPAd Very interesting - makes sense now. Being new to N I'm still getting a feel for what one can get away with - my test circle is Peco third radius (11.25" I think) but that's too tight for the 156 to be close coupled it seems. Been hearing some mixed reports about the 156 and tight curves/points etc. I still can't wait to get my hands on that Central set. Just out of interest, before I enbarked on Foxfield Tunnel and with the imminent release of the Dapol 156, I almost built a replica of East Kilbride station, well either that or Paisley Canal Station. Both would of made great mini layouts and ideal for those SPT 156's. Oh well, who knows whats around the corner cheers, __________________________________________ Comment posted by jongwinnett on Mon Jul 20, 2009 7:49 pm Don't get me wrong - 156 runs well. The issue seems to be if you use the matching extended corridor connectors together on tight curves - use one short one long and there seem to be no problems. (Just not so good on the straights). I think even slightly larger curves would eliminate the problem completely - don't (yet) have the ability to test this theory - but what happens is the end throw of the coach causes the corridor connections to pass each other - giving an effect akin to buffer locking. It only happened enough to derail once during an hour's running in though - the other 80 or so laps it just was a wee catch and lurch ???‚¬??? as the unit transitioned from a short straight to curve or vice versa. Some attention to the edges of the corridor connector with a sanding stick might reduce or diminish the catching effect too. On the other hand, the lights are superb! May be going off topic - sorry! __________________________________________ ??? posted on Mon Jul 20, 2009 8:11 pm jongwinnett wrote: Don't get me wrong - 156 runs well. The issue seems to be if you use the matching extended corridor connectors together on tight curves - use one short one long and there seem to be no problems. (Just not so good on the straights). I think even slightly larger curves would eliminate the problem completely - don't (yet) have the ability to test this theory - but what happens is the end throw of the coach causes the corridor connections to pass each other - giving an effect akin to buffer locking. It only happened enough to derail once during an hour's running in though - the other 80 or so laps it just was a wee catch and lurch ???‚¬??? as the unit transitioned from a short straight to curve or vice versa. Some attention to the edges of the corridor connector with a sanding stick might reduce or diminish the catching effect too. On the other hand, the lights are superb! May be going off topic - sorry! Hey, no probs. Thanks for the info. Cheers __________________________________________ ??? posted on Thu Jul 23, 2009 7:40 pm Another update.... On the NWM route there's a number of diagrams for 170 DMU's. Only one diagram brings that class onto the Salford Bridge loop..... 001.JPG 170 513 on 2M06 11 11 Salford Bridge to Maybank.. Next stop Steelhouse Lane. (131.58 KiB) 170smalldia.jpg Diagram NT701. (69.68 KiB) Soon to be attempting to re-livery a 170 into Central (ex Midland Mainline) colours, adding working headlights too. Another little vid uploaded.... 007.JPG 170 513 on 2M07 12 42 Radley Jnc to Maybank stopper. (70.37 KiB) Something a little different.. Here we see 57 301 Scott Tracey on 0M05 06 05 Norton to Maybank, Maybank Thunderbird. The 57 runs via Salford Bridge for route knowledge purposes, then sits in Maybank sidings until required. 004.JPG (51.94 KiB) __________________________________________ Comment posted by agentskj on Thu Jul 23, 2009 8:35 pm Love the layout are you going to put it on the exhqbvtion circuit How do the e*n guage stuff run its been years since i have done this scale makes a return pretty tempting How do you do the snow effect Sam __________________________________________ ??? posted on Thu Jul 23, 2009 9:33 pm agentskj wrote: Love the layout are you going to put it on the exhqbvtion circuit How do the e*n guage stuff run its been years since i have done this scale makes a return pretty tempting How do you do the snow effect Sam Hello Sam. Thanks for your interest. Fixed layout unfortunately, so no exhibitions. Never thought it would ever make the grade for exhibiting. These days N gauge manufacturers are really pulling all the stops out with there latest releases. Real good running qualities, easier DCC fitting, working headlights and excellent body mouldings and finishes. Well worth the plunge if your considering it, also the obvious benifit of getting more railway in a smaller space. The snow used is made by Woodland Scenics. Once the under growth was laid and set down, the snow was lightly sprinkled on top. I only wanted a light dusting so I could still see the winter grass underneath. I decided not to glue the snow down as I wasn't sure if I would like it at first. If I wanted too I could easily vaccum it off. __________________________________________

Maybank to Radley Jnc in N Gauge by SPAD original page on Old RMweb __________________________________________ ??? posted on Sat Jul 11, 2009 11:25 pm Hello to eveyone at RMWeb. Bit of a 'newbee' to the forum, finding some really interesting stuff out. Some of the layouts are truly inspirational....really addictive!! Thought I would share some pics and info from my newly completed layout, Foxfield Tunnel. In fact my frist fully completed layout ever!! What number this one is I really couldn't say, lost count years ago OK, a breif intro then...Inspiration comes from the fantastic BVE rail sim 'BVE4.net', Maybank to Hammerwich, from which the location is taken from. For those of you that aren't familiar, check out their website. , and also the brilliant Law Junction. Foxfield Tunnel is a section of diesel mainline between Maybank and Frankley Jnc on the Salford Bridge loop, set in heart of fictitious Staffordshire farmland. The station of Steelhouse Lane to the north and Highgate to the south of Foxfield Tunnel. No buildings and no stations here though, maybe a bit of a cop out on my part. Just wanted to capture the basic rural look, concentrating more on the traction and operational side of things. I decided to set it in late winter hence the light smattering of snow and frost, something a little different maybe? Traction is mostly Central Trains operated DMU's (patiently waiting for the Central 150 and 156's ) and Voyagers, with a bit of freight thrown in for good measure, mainly steel trains to Salford steel terminal. All the trains, headcodes and diagrams are based on the ones available on BVE4.net, wanting to achieve the effect of running it as a 'real' railway. 002.JPG 220019 Mersey Voyager on 1V92 0654 Manchester Picc to Reading via Salford Bridge. An overview of the layout looking towards Maybank. (131.8 KiB) Signalling is from Roger Murray, in my opinion the best N scale signals around. I'm using CTI control boards to operate the signals via a laptop (another topic there I think!).The grass banks are Woodland Scenics static grass flock, labourious but worth it I think. About four layers of different lengths and colours were used. Might seem strange to then cover it with snow but hey, thats the look I wanted. Trees are all made from sea moss. I think there's probably room for a few more somewhere. The line is on a gentle incline leading upto Foxfield Tunnel. This was achieved by using the polystyrene risers available from Woodland Scenics. 013.JPG 170514 on 2S15 1346 Maybank to Hammerwich via Salford Bridge semi fast. (111.59 KiB) I've been a little sneaky here and added the headlights onto the 170 using paint shop. The effect looks OK. I'm hoping to attempt to add working headlights to my 158 and 170's given the time and patience. Keep watching this space! 008.JPG 220019 Mersey Voyager on 1O27 1654 Manchester Picc to Gatwick Airport via Salford Bridge. This view is of Foxfield Tunnel looking towards Salford Bridge. (76.89 KiB) Think I'll leave it there for now. Hope you've enjoyed what I've achieved so far. __________________________________________ Comment posted by queensquare on Sat Jul 11, 2009 11:37 pm Some very convincing and atmospheric pictures. The scenic work is particularly convincing. I shall be following this thread with interest. Jerry __________________________________________ Comment posted by sithlord75 on Sun Jul 12, 2009 1:16 am Ditto to the above. I like the winter look to the layout. What are the dimensions and are there more pics please? __________________________________________ Comment posted by Stuey on Sun Jul 12, 2009 7:16 am Wow- really nice, what a great layout to show stock off. The sprinkling of snow is really convincing. __________________________________________ Comment posted by onslaught832 on Sun Jul 12, 2009 7:26 am Very nice indeed ,how did you get the super-elevation on the curve Cheers Phill __________________________________________ Comment posted by 50037 on Sun Jul 12, 2009 7:28 am Hi SPAD, Refreshingly different and looking very well executed , I'd love to see more Regards, Gerry. __________________________________________ Comment posted by grahame on Sun Jul 12, 2009 7:37 am Fantastic. A real railway in a real landscape - the benefts of N gauge. Working CLSs and scale height trees. Well done. G. __________________________________________ Comment posted by Furness Flyer on Sun Jul 12, 2009 7:50 am Some lovely pictures there, and very convincing - I was almost shivering looking at the first one __________________________________________ Comment posted by philhendry on Sun Jul 12, 2009 7:51 am Wow, that's really great. I'm almost shivering with cold just looking at the pictures. Very atmospheric. Phil __________________________________________ Comment posted by Heavyduty on Sun Jul 12, 2009 8:06 am Very nice! __________________________________________ Comment posted by Birdseyecircus on Sun Jul 12, 2009 8:36 am That's lovely. It makes me feel cold looking at the pictures. Well done. Looking forward to more pictures. Paul __________________________________________ Comment posted by bruces on Sun Jul 12, 2009 8:44 am What a great BVE route you chose for your ideas...when i first read the title i was not sure whether it was NWM or something else. Im not sure but in NWM is that part electrified? __________________________________________ Comment posted by Chris56057 on Sun Jul 12, 2009 9:10 am Superb work there SPAD, the snow is different but very convincing. __________________________________________ Comment posted by shanks522 on Sun Jul 12, 2009 10:45 am Fantastic, I've always had a soft spot for winter/snow layouts, beautifully modeled. hope to see some more. __________________________________________ Comment posted by bmthtrains on Sun Jul 12, 2009 10:47 am Very nice indeed - great to see a different season - its always summer on model railways David __________________________________________ Comment posted by porkie1978 on Sun Jul 12, 2009 11:30 am Thats amazing... I love the winter look layouts . __________________________________________ Comment posted by nebnoswal on Sun Jul 12, 2009 2:19 pm The snow effect looks great, great work __________________________________________ ??? posted on Sun Jul 12, 2009 5:12 pm Hello All. Many thanks for all your comments, they're very much appreciated Thought I'd answer one or two of your questions. Hi Phill, the super elevation of the track was really quite simple. I think I mentioned earlier that I used Woodland Scenics polystyrene risers. Once I was happy with the shape of the curve for the track bed, I used some small cardboard wedges to slightly raise the one side of the styrene riser. Again, once happy with the elevation (being careful not to over do it, its N gauge remember) I glued it all into place applying a small amount of weight whilst the glue set. The banks of the cuttings were then built up the usual way using thick cardboard spacers shaped with the contours of the slopes, then filled with scruched up newspaper and finally plaster cloth layed on top. 016a.jpg 158783 on 2S12 1133 Whitminster to Salford Bridge stopper. This shot shows the cant of the rails. (68.67 KiB) Hi bruces. Thanks for your comments, pleased you like it. BVE4.net NWM is such a great simulator to play. The line which branches off the Maybank mainline at Roundway Jnc, which then goes forward to Salford Bridge is non electrified. We then get the wires at Salford Bridge and then back to non electricfied line all the way to Frankley Jnc. Drive the 150 on the 1426 Maybank to Salford Bridge. Foxfield Tunnel is towards the top of the incline you hit not long after leaving Steelhouse Lane. 011.JPG 158783 on the return working shown above, 2M58 12 11 Salford Bridge to Maybank. (113.88 KiB) Hi sithlord, glad you like. Some quick dimensions. Basic U shaped baseboards, the main scenic area measures approx 2meters in length x 85cms wide. The two 6 road fiddle yards at either end are about 1.5meters, long enough for a double Voyager set or full length HST. I think having it on a gentle curve also helps give it a larger aspect. 002.JPG 60044 on 6M63 1950 Salford Steel empties to Maybank. (135.97 KiB) Again, thanks for all your comments. __________________________________________ Comment posted by sncf_stephen on Sun Jul 12, 2009 5:20 pm Congratulations on a spectacular looking layout. I think the snow really adds to the isolation of the scene. __________________________________________ Comment posted by Anglian on Sun Jul 12, 2009 8:13 pm I like this. Might there be some brown tones of dead vegetation in a winter landscape? __________________________________________ Comment posted by pirouets on Sun Jul 12, 2009 8:59 pm As you say, I think the gentle curve really helps with the overall feel of the layout, and I have to say I really like the snow dusting. Your timing of posting has also helped as I am starting to look into replacing all my "bog brush trees" and the picture with the voyager is a very useful reference. How tall are the tree's used in that shot? __________________________________________ Comment posted by 3chordboy on Sun Jul 12, 2009 10:02 pm love the sweeping curves of this layout, a great illustration of the scale of scene you can create in N. the snow scene is a great addition too. makes this layout very memorable indeed. any more photos or perhaps even videos of the scene in action??? Ryan __________________________________________ Comment posted by Trainsrgr8 on Mon Jul 13, 2009 12:17 pm Love the route on NWM and i love your layout! I have virtually thrashed the BVE 37 up that incline on NWM many a time! Love the idea of the snow aswell! More pictures please! Danny __________________________________________ Comment posted by number6 on Mon Jul 13, 2009 12:30 pm Life imitates art! Or is that art imitates art? I am no fan of the modern railway but this is superb! Well done on forging a independent path. Look forward to more. Raphael __________________________________________ Comment posted by onslaught832 on Mon Jul 13, 2009 1:22 pm When I look at models of this quality Spad, It really does make dabbling in N or 2mm all the more tempting . Cheers Phill __________________________________________