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I have recently joined the local modular club here, and I have a bunch of links for you! A couple of suggestions based on my experience with them (the club and the modules) so far... When they (we?) say modules, we mean interchangeable sections that are built to a given standard so they may be connected in any number of ways. We do this every month, and every time it is a new and interesting layout. For the relatively small cost of building a 4 or 6 foot section, you get a layout with 200 - 300 feet of mainline running, plus branchlines, and yards! These modules are built to HOTrak/freemo standards. But I digress... [;)] If you are looking for a way simply to make the modules easy to take apart and transport once or twice in their life, you do not need to be so rigourous in application of standards. Use 1.5" or 2" extruded foam for the subroadbed instead of plywood. It will reduce your weight considerably. Each module (most are 4 or 6 feet, but we have some 2 footers too) are easily handled by two guys. Be sure to connect the modules together in a solid, but removable way, like bolts or clamps. If you screw them together, it is more like a one-time connection. Six feet is practical, and will fit in just about every minivan and/or SUV currenlty available. 4 main lines, plus industry sidings and so on may be a bit of a squeeze in 2 feet. The "bumpouts" are a good idea, but don't make the overall depth more than 3 feet if you can only access it from one side. Anyway, here are all the links. The local club (web site under construction, as usual): http://www.hotrak.ca Be sure to check out the gallery and look at the planned "Castor River" modules. This is a 4 module switching setup with 4 main lines. Railway Bob's how-to on building modules (**warning for dial-up** photo intensive) http://www.railwaybob.com/Modules/MRIndex.htm Free-mo's site and standards. http://www.free-mo.org/ Good luck! Hope that helps. Andrew
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