Construction

In January of 2000, I started planning (by using a computer design program) where I could install my layout and found out that this was going to cost slightly more than that first $40 train set!  After some discussion about "no gravel in the flowerbeds", my original layout was modified to include about 110' of low trestle on my initial 145' of track around the patio area.  This meant that I had a LOT of cedar trestle pieces to glue and screw together before any track was going to be laid.  Once that portion was completed, I started to assemble the pieces in the garage for spring installation in the flower bed.  The spring was fairly dry and I was able to devote sometime on weekends in installing most of the track.  Due to a large, messy maple tree with some "just below the surface" roots, the low trestle idea actually worked quite well.  Not only does the track on the low trestle leave some possible room for root expansion, but the patio area can be hosed down with out washing all of the track ballast away.

Once the track was installed, the wiring was started.  I had elected to go with the Aristo Train Engineer system, because it sounded like the simplest to install and the easiest to control.   Every engine and the Phoenix sound car are equipped with an onboard receivers.  I've installed three switches and they are also controlled by the TE system.

Update- Summer of 2001: An additional expansion has taken place with a new mountain/tunnel complex and a higher trestle which crosses over the existing track.  The mountain was constructed of wire screening on a 2 x 2 wood frame.  Eleven bags of SakCrete sans mix cover the frame to create "Glass Lake".  It's strong enough for grandkids to climb upon without damage.

                                                     (Click on any picture to enlarge)