Modular Layout Sizes

[GoleyC]

Was visiting a local train show and noticed that all the layouts where a combination of modular units.

My question is, is there a standard size for a modular unit?  2'x4' and some height?  Or, is the size and height club dependent?

I'm seeking dimensions, as I would like to create two to three for my own use in our basement and find that these are very convenient when it comes to either moving to a new location or transporting them to family functions.

Any tips or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[Jake1210]

The module dimensions & standards are club dependant. I.E. Someone who builds FREEMO modules won't follow the standards for NTrak modules. And if they are for your layout, the dimensions dont matter. (Well, as long as you aren't going to want to rearrange them in a random order later on.) Just as long as the pieces of the puzzle that is your layout fit together.

[dehusman]

Show modules (N-track and most HO clubs other than Freemo) are usually 2 ft wide and some multiple of 2 ft long, 2x4, 2x6, 2x8.  Primarily to build a loop, having the sides in some multiple of lengths works well.  40" floor to rail seems very common.  N track uses 3 mains and HO use either 2 or 3 mains.  There are some module standards or reccommended practices on the NMRA website.

Dave H.

[GoleyC]

Thanks!

 This is what I've found and if others seeks this information, here's the link to the information:

http://www.nmra.org/standards/ms_intro.html 

[cuyama]

Free-Mo's a bit different, with no set size or shape for the modules, only a standard interface at each end. Some very nice layouts have been built in the US and abroad using Free-Mo
http://www.free-mo.org/about

 

[John Busby]

Hi GolyC

Many of the layouts you see at exhibitions are sectioned for easy transport rather than modules.

Modules generally have a set standard for everything eg "N" track modules.

layout size etc is very club dependant unless it is using one of the many module systems.

you need to find the module system that best suits your needs or a convenient size of section to build your layout with, it needs to be easy to move and fit in the most likely transport the family car, and be at a comfortable height for you the operator.

If making a transportable layout give thought to the things best left off due to I don't want to repair it every time I move the layout syndrome, and it needs to be boxed in for transport to minimize damage

regards John

[jamnest]

I moved from a large basement to a series of apartments and now back to a large basement.  Prior to constructing my own layout I belonged to a HO modular club.  Because my job requires me to move periodically, I decided to construct a modular/domino layout.  The layout is a hybrid domino/modular layout as the sections were constructed as matching dominoes, but some sections can be rearranged as a modular layout to fit in my new living arrangement.  We plan to keep our current home for eventual retirement.  I have a plan for a large basement layout.  I can take a few of the modular sections with me to my temporary apartment layout.  This allows me to run trains and continue to work on my large layout while I am out of town.  Sometimed completrd sections are taken back to the layout and a fresh "blank" module is taken back to the apartment. My modular sections are between 3' and 6' long and 18'' to 30" wide.

JIM

[GoleyC]

Thanks for all the excellent feedback.  I'm pretty sure now, that I'll need to contact the local HO clubs in my area and see if I can get a copy of their standard design plans and then go from that.

In the future, once I get the time, I want to join one of the local clubs, but unfortunatly, my time is very limited now and I want to get a basic start on HO modeling.  My travels will allow me to stop by various real live RRs and take numerous photos for use in weathering, modeling and other aspect of the hobby.

I'm looking forward to at least getting two modular units completed in the next two years or so.  I'm not going to rush my work, but try and accomplish the life like nature of this hobby from my own imagnation and the various photos I take.

I've got fawn memories from my childhood of the Chessie System and C&O and B&O era.  As I use to leave a few blocks from the main line that ran through our small town, and my father was an engineer at that time.  I remember my summer days sitting by the tracks, sipping on a soda hoping to catch a glimpse of my father up in the engine.

Again, thanks for all the information!

[nucat78]

Used to be 2X4 was a popular size because you could buy plywood sheets off the shelf in that size or cut down a 4X8 easily.  Might still be.

I use foam and my modules range from 18-in wide to 24-inch wide and varying lengths to fit my space.

I don't hook them up to anybody else's modules though.