After having read about the marvels of low temp solder in a couple MRH-RE columns (https://model-railroad-hobbyist.com/magazine/running-extra/2021-10/ah-ha...) I've been looking forward to trying it for myself.  I ordered a new iron (Hakko FX888D) to replace my ancient weller, and I ordered a couple types of low temp solder from Digikey:

The switching lead on my mini test layout would be pathetically short without an extension.  Since I expect to carry the module up and down stairs and round corners, the extension has to be removable.  I wanted it to lock nicely into place and be easy to install and remove.  I ended up using a threaded insert and a screw with a knob.

Here's a side view of the extension installed.

The astute observer may have noticed I haven't posted about any layout progress for quite some time, and wondered if this was because I was busily building the Eastborough Industrial, or if I was still waffling.

It's the latter.

I'm happy with the track plan, the only minor reservation I have is Trans Plastics - that's a lot of cars (somewhere around 20) for a medium amount of operating interest.  I've had thoughts of substituting a smaller plastics industry.  But that's not what's holding me up.

• Low Temp Solder Experiments
• A Screw On Lead Extension
• A Mini Test Layout
• NYS&W New York Mills Industrial - the layout I won't build
• The Eastborough Industrial
• Track planning with google maps

I should say up front that this is not the model railroad I am going to build.  I'll explain why below.  But it was a strong contender and I came close to building it.

It's taken me far too long but I've finally narrowed in on what I really want out of this layout and have worked out a plan which I think I'll find fun and satisfying.

More in the first post...

I’m in the planing phase for an around 3 walls freelance industrial switching layout.  I prefer not to compress my industries much.  I do like to know about the prototype for any given industry rather than just making them up.  I have been fussing around in CAD for a while trying to find the best way to lay out the industries I thought I wanted in the space available, and not really converging on something I was happy with.

So I decided to try something completely different.