Jim's Model Train Site

This site is about model and prototype railroading, and features information about my layout building and operating activities, and other layouts.

The C&SFT is a fictional Switching railroad serving the area between the IHB and EJ&E mainlines near the Illinois / Indiana state line, from the mid-1970's to mid-1980's.

The MWSL is a fictional multi branch Shortline railroad that operates a branch which connects to the C&SFT in Illinois and a branch in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

The Layouts that James Built!

As on Sunday 21st December, I have started the next phase of the never finished layout (is there any other kind?). I purchased the framing and baseboard, and have painted some of them so I can start the actual construction of two new modules. The two modules will each be 1800mm x 300mm (about 6 x 1 feet), making an extension to the layout of 12 x 1 feet.

Posted by stanford on Mon, 12/22/2008 - 14:45

Enter the Rock...

Following the 'shrinking' of my layout to fit the available space, I was communicating with a member of the virtual interchange group I am a member of, and the suggestion was made for us to run a 'virtual' transfer run from Silvis to Calumet South using Rock Island and C&SFT motive power.

So...

Posted by stanford on Fri, 12/05/2008 - 17:24

Multi-Operator Op Sessions and Layout Plans

Last Tuesday I had the opportunity to see how the new configuration for my layout handled more than one operator. And I am glad to say that it is still able to be operated by more than one person at a time.

Posted by stanford on Thu, 10/23/2008 - 06:40

C&SFT Re-Assembled Video

After settling into our new location I decided I would get motivated and do a Trains of Thought episode about the re-assembled and 'new' C&SFT, so I added a video on YouTube featuring the layout.

Go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2lVagwLHBoU to view the video.

Posted by stanford on Thu, 10/02/2008 - 19:49

Software Updated

Over the last 6 months or so I have made a number of significant changes to the Model Railway Programs Suite I have available on this site in the Software link in the menu.

Posted by stanford on Sun, 09/21/2008 - 09:09