I thought i would share an old layout of mine i built about 2 years ago.

I was after a small project as i lived in a unit at the time. I based the plan around the John Allen time saver with a little tweak here and there. The idea was to attempt to do it on a tight budget. In the end i think it came in around $200 for everything on the layout. I scratch built all the buildings with scrap from other projects. Used card to form the bridges ect. It was good fun but in the end i moved it on so someone could enjoy it.

Here is the situation. I have a track plan and as I am laying track I see a nice looking building kit I want on the layout or multiple buildings. Which means changing the track plan some or a lot.

 Question.
 How many modelers design a layout with specific buildings-structures in mind/on hand and design the track plan to accommodate the buildings. How many layout the track plan and find/assemble or scratch build structures to fit the track arrangement? Or do most plan and build together.

Do any unpainted/undecorated HO diesel locomotives come without the detail parts unattached? So that .... you can attach them yourself after you paint and decal the engine?

I didn't think so until I saw this unpainted PARAGON3 SD7 on their website.

I'm a novice who is interested in painting some engines into my own fictitious railroad paint scheme. Having all the details off would make it so much easier for me.

Thanks

Jim

Hey all. Need some suggestions on who has the best brick sheet styrene for HO. Evergreen has everything but brick. Need to start planning my scratch building for the Goose island layout and 99% of the buildings are brick.

Suggestions?