Coffee table layout resources?

[Anonymous]

I've gotten premission to build a 3'x4' layout / coffe table. (Being in an apartment we don't have room for a larger layout quite yet.) I have a 2'x4' module in HO scale that 'll be donating it's buildings to the cause. It'll be fairly basic with 15" radius curves and a few turnouts so some switching can be done.

Mainly what I'm currious about is if anyone has seen any books/magazines/or web media that might have additional information on attempting to build a coffee table/layout? I'm just hoping to do a little research before diving in and making ,mistakes

Thanks for your time
Jay

[Anonymous]

Never seen it done with HO before - all the coffee table layouts I've seen have used either N or Z scale. As you've probably found, the 15inch radius curves will make selecting equipment to run fairly tricky. I would suggest that you build it in N instead, as this will allow greater choice of trains.

[IRONROOSTER]

There have been some articles over the years - search the index above for coffee table. The biggest difference between HO and N for the table is you probably need a little deeper box. Otherwise pick small engines such as a 0-4-0 docksider, a 4 wheel diesel, or the MDC boxcab. You'll want short cars 40' and under - MDC 36' cars should be good.

You can probably find some coffee table plans in woodworking magazines/books that will give you some ideas for the wood working part

Hey it's small but go for it.
Enjoy
Paul

[Anonymous]

Design Idea- I've seen alot of coffee table/display tables with fixed glass tops that I have thought would be perfect, but I think the Idea would be better if the display or layout shelf would pull out on heavy duty drawer guides. Take note though that the table would have to have counter weight on the side opposite of the pullout side to keep from tipping over. I think I would put another pullout prefferbly to couch side for tranformer and or controls.

Carpenter Matt

[nfmisso]

Jay;

There was an article in the past few years on doing an HO scale trolley layout in a coffee table. I think it was in MR or one of the MR books.

Check out these 23 hits:
http://index.mrmag.com/tm.exe?opt=S&sort=A&output=3&cmdtext=%22COFFEETABLE%22