Woodland Scenics Mod-U-Rail system

[Cannoli]

I'm planning a small, portable, extension to my 4x8 layout. The new section will occupy space above a freezer and stored under the existing layout when not in use. I was thinking of using the Woodland Scenics Mod-u-rail kits, the straight module at 18"x36" would be perfect for the space to be occupied. Has anyone used these kits? What are your thoughts on them? I figure with the foam construction it would be perfect weight wise since I will be removing it when not in use.

[ARTHILL]

Three thoughts:

1. They are wonderful, I use much WS stuff, but not the prefabs (See #2)

2. They are expensive, very expensive. The same layout could could be built with some WS parts and many less expensive substitues.

3. They are very limited in plan.

After all that is said, you will get a nice layout and a quick build. And it will be light weight.

 

Keep us posted with the decision and the progress.

[Cannoli]

Arthill you make a good point on the cost, looking further into what's actually included in the kit, I have most of the components now or would use something else, such as the plethora of cork I have instead of their trackbed. I know that some of the components can be bought separately. Perhaps I should look into that and use a basic piece of foam for my base.

[dragenrider]

I used the Woodland Scenics modules as the basis of my layout.  I don't use their pre-fab scenery inserts, though.  Here's a couple of pictures to illustrate:

 

 

[conagher]

I think dragenrider's good photos illustrate just how simple construction would be if you decide to make it yourself. Nice work.

[dragenrider]

I must admit, the speed with which these can be assembled is impressive.  After the first two or three my speed was up to one module in about seven minutes.  There is something to be said for efficiency!    Less benchwork building, more scenery and train running! 

[Driline]

Cannoli,

Where did you get that cool train avatar? And can you substitute different livery schemes?

[Cannoli]

I put together my train graphic from images located at http://www.frograil.com/. There are a ton of images there from just about any road you can think of.