Temporary Indoor

N-scale modelers often enjoy running extremely long trains which approach the length of a typical O-scale train. Their solution to the space problem, which we 3railers can adopt, was to construct temporary layouts assembled from standardized discreet modules, like a string of Dominos. While their original N-Trak system was intended for continuously running club trains at public shows (like the child height "Lionel FasTrak Modular Railroad" [EXPLANATION] system), more Operations friendly module designs, such as the "Free-mo" [EXAMPLE] system, have been developed for railroading use. Module systems differ most noticeably in regards to their specified legs and track mating scheme.

Pin Aligned Module (*.pdf)
A Narrow Gauge Modeler Looks at Modules (*.pdf)
~ [Berrett Hill sectional guideline] (*.pdf)
Freemont Mills (*.pdf) - {example HO Free-mo module from start to finish}

Portable module layouts are built ad hoc from individual modules meeting compatible conformity criteria [EXAMPLE]. Due to their ability to be strung together into long mainline runs with working trackside signals, modules are ideal platforms for O-scale Light Rail Vehicle layouts [EXAMPLE] and Rapid Transit. Temporary modules can be accessed from both sides, so a paralleling fiddle yard [EXAMPLE] can be concealed behind a long-and-tall structure.

A Gentle Guide to the Free-mo Standards (*.pdf booklet)
Possible O-scale 3rail Module Standards (*.pdf)
East Penn Traction Club Model Trolley Layout Module Standards (*.pdf booklet)

TIP: An unnecessary headache for many portable temporary layout clubs has been that they have allowed members to mostly build switching modules instead of detailed "negative space" [EXPLANATION] modules. This is regrettable, as there are a large number of non-railroad R-T-R structures (houses, farms, retail establishments, etc.) available that would make very scenically interesting mainline modules for the typically longer modular layout trains to pass through. Besides, not having any turnouts on the module keeps its construction cost way down, which allows more modules to be constructed within the same budget.


Temporary Outdoor

Portable 3rail layout modules, since they are designed to be quickly setup almost anywhere, are entirely suited for use outdoors for a few hours on a nice day. Why rent an expensive ballroom, when you can assemble a temporary modular railroad in your own back yard? Just ensure that the modules are never exposed to dampness (such as at dawn or dusk), and that any scenery can withstand a brief gust of wind (a possible issue with cellophane).

Plenty of room outdoors to setup 3rail train modules (*.mp4)

Exhibition layouts are a type of temporary layout which are not designed to meet module connectivity standards (e.g., function as a "domino" within a string of dominos). Such a layout is essentially a personalized permanent layout built upon easily transportable segments, which are intended to be stored away (in a closet, or even a rented storage unit) when not in use. Exhibition layouts are a potential solution for studio apartment dwellers, and great way to show off your hobby to spectators, whether the layout is setup in a neighbors front yard or at a train fair event.

Build a Small Portable Layout (*.pdf)
L-Girder for rolling benchwork (*.pdf)


Permanent Indoor

Traditionally layouts were built on a monolithic bench [EXAMPLE]. While this was fine when people had large basements and stayed put, in today's reality of condos and frequent moves the more sensible approach is to build most of the layout as Discreet Sections [ESSAY]. Because there is no requirement for compatibility like with Temporary Modules, Segments can take any shape or track arrangement.

Segmentation Examples:
Strait Segment (*.pdf)
Corner Segment (*.pdf)
Middle-of-the-room Segment (*.pdf)
Build a loop in segments (*.pdf)
TOMA (*.pdf) - {consistent-sized segments forming a continuous run, like a temporary modular layout}
Quebec Iron and Titanium Railway (*.pdf) - {semi-permanence allows complex trackwork to span two segments}
Benchwork Tricks:
7 tips for dealing with corners (*.pdf)
Coved Corners (*.pdf)
Benchwork as Scenery (*.pdf) - {the benchwork fascia is made to look like a pier}
Drop Leaf Turntable (*.pdf)
Drop Leaf Staging (*.mp4) - {similar idea as on rollaway typewriter tables}
Accordion-fold staging (*.pdf)
Train Elevator (*.pdf)
Train Gate (*.pdf)
Lift-up section that locks in place (*.pdf)
A fresh approach to lift-up sections (*.pdf)


Permanent Outdoor

O-scale is big enough that you are not restricted to building a layout indoors. Outdoors is advantageous for long rollingstock, as it is one of the few places where you can construct befittingly broad radius curves. Although the weatherproof G-scale is the more popular garden railway scale, quality O-scale 3rail track has proven to hold up well outdoors, even in climates subject to freezing (see page 21 in the book "Creative Model Railroad Design").

Freight car switching on a permanent 3rail garden layout (*.mp4)

There are however some singular considerations when placing O-scale trains and structures outdoors. UV light will quickly fade the paint on 3rail trains and structures, and direct sun can soften plastic, so it is best to shade spurs where rollingstock will be standing for long periods. As with their prototypes, structures must be able to shed water and resist wind, so consider exclusively using structures made of ceramic [EXAMPLE].

3rail rollingstock is highly subject to rusting, so don't operate trains in snow or in a high humidity situation (such as the times of day when dew forms), and NEVER leave trains out overnight (having a storage track that leads into a dry shed or the house basement is an ideal solution). Trackbed drainage truly becomes as critical as on real railroads, so wherever you lay track, including if upon an elevated structure (garden trains are best viewed at a track height closer to a seated persons eye level), make sure that the ground underneath stays dry due to good drainage.