May 2025 - The Burbank Branch in N scale

Wiring and Laying Tracks

By - admin
Posted on May 20, 2025May 20, 2025

Wiring and laying track on the SP Burbank Branch in N scale

After completing wiring and laying tracks on the first section of my N scale switching layout, I continued extending the trackwork.

I started test-fitting Atlas Code 55 turnouts and Micro Engineering Code 55 flextrack. I had used this combination on a larger N scale SP layout, and it worked well.

Test-fitting the Atlas code 55 turnouts and Micro-Engineering code 55 flextrack.

Unlike previous projects, I bought a Xuron cutter this time – specifically the 2175B model, which also suits N scale track.

I used to cut rail with a Dremel and cutting disk, but the Xuron cutter feels much more comfortable.

Wiring and Laying Tracks: Test-fitting the Atlas code 55 turnouts and Micro-Engineering code 55 flextrack.

While waiting for the EVA foam roadbed glue to cure, I soldered feeders to the rails using a 15W soldering iron and rosin core flux.

To make wiring easier, I flipped the base upside down. It isn’t screwed to the benchwork yet, so this was simple.

Next, I glued the track to the roadbed using a thin layer of acrylic caulk.

The main line and sidings are now in place. I’ll lay the spurs for Hendrick’s Supply Builders, Oroweat Bakery, and the Team Track next.

The team track will be wired through a DPDT switch, so it can also serve as a DCC programming track.

Wiring and Laying Tracks: main line and siding.

I used terminal strips and cable ties to organize the wiring. The wires hanging under the layout connect to the DPDT switches that control the Tortoise switch machines.

Then, these switches will be mounted on the fascia.

Wiring and laying tracks on a small switching layout requires planning, patience, and flexibility. Each step builds the foundation for smooth operations later on.

Using the right tools and techniques helps avoid frustration and saves time. As the layout grows, keeping things neat and modular makes future changes much easier.

With the basics in place, I’m excited to shift focus to detailing and fine-tuning operations.

Laying Tracks

By - admin
Posted on May 14, 2025June 12, 2025

Laying tracks on my N scale layout

I started laying tracks across most of my N scale layout. When needed, I flipped the plywood base upside down to handle wiring and install the Tortoise switch machines more comfortably.

Roadbed

To start, I used 2mm EVA foam strips for the roadbed. I glued them down with Titebond Original Wood Glue. For simplicity and a prototypical look, I laid the roadbed only under the mainline. Sidings and spurs will go directly onto the plywood.

Holding the EVA foam down with metal blocks, while glue dries.

Laying Tracks and Wiring

Next, I soldered 24AWG feeders to the underside of the rails. I drilled holes through the roadbed to connect the feeders to the DCC bus.

To secure the track, I applied a thin layer of acrylic caulk using a putty knife. I then placed metal blocks on top to hold the rails in position as the caulk dried.

Laying Tracks: holding them in place with metal blocks after glueing.

Switch Machines

Once the track was down, I flipped the base again to install the Tortoise switch machines. I also connected the feeders and ran the DCC bus wires.

Afterward, I inserted the piano wire into the hole in the turnout’s throwbar.

I then screwed the switch machine to the plywood base and connected it using ZipZ solderless connectors.

Each Tortoise is controlled by a DPDT toggle switch and powered by a 12V DC supply

Power Supply

I installed two 3A 12V DC power supplies under the layout – one for the switch machines, and the other for layout lighting. This includes LEDs in buildings, vehicles, and streetlights.

Power supplies for Tortoise switch machines and for layout lights

To monitor power delivery, I added a main switch to each 12V output. These switches illuminate an LED when active. I’ll mount both switches and LEDs on the fascia for easy access.

Trackwork Fine Tuning

The first section of tracks on my N scale layout is complete. Track has been laid, wiring is done and the first turnout is controlled by a properly installed Tortoise switch machine.

Here is the Conrock and Skyline ready-mix concrete spur.

Track laying: First section of layout is complete

I used thin pieces of styrene to shim tracks. One for the transition in track height from mainline (photo below, bottom) to the Conrock spur (photo below, top), and another one at the end of the same spur to keep the track level.

Wiring should be neat and well-organized to make troubleshooting easier if problems occur. Here is how I managed wiring on the Burbank Branch in N scale.

The trackwork phase marks a major milestone in building the layout, which is now coming together with solid progress.

Careful planning now will ensure smoother operations and fewer issues later and sets the foundation for future scenery and detailing.