Is there any interest in building a HO Modular MONON Layout by Members ?

[Pete Pedigo]

Is there any interest in buidling a HO Modular Layout by Members ?  The idea is to be able to bring modeling members together a couple of times a year at differenct location around the state, trains shows etc.

I know nothing about doing this but interest has been put forth.  I understand that at one ponit in time this was discussed but the idea was dropped.

Pete Pedigo

[Robert Gibson]

The first item to be addressed is where would the layout be stored and how it will be transported.

[Ron Marquardt]

I might be wrong Bob, but I believe Pete is talking about one of those layouts where each participant has a module, perhaps 2'X4', built to standards where they could connect one with another, and each modeler keeping his own module (or more than one) at home when not in use.  Is this right Pete?

[Pete Pedigo]

Yes, that is correct.  I was thinkng of a modular layout that could be increase and decreased in size depending on were it was exibited.  Then also, those living close together could also join them for enjoyment between exhibits.  I can thin of no better way to get younger fellows involved than model railroading.

Keep in mind I know nothing about this type of layout building. 

Pete 

[Gene Remaly]

The biggest problem I see would be the corner pieces. Then the question of DC or DCC, Then what brand. I prefer KD couplers which are compatible with most other brands, but not all.

The modulars seen at train shows are usually owned by train clubs who have a trailer or van to transport them.

My straw vote is no.

With a little advance notice, I open my basement door to visitors.  I have a couple of "open doors" each year.  An open door is when people come look and then go home.
An open house is when you feed and water them then they go home

[Pete Pedigo]

Was think more like the Society own the corner pieces and eveyone else own a module and get together once or twice a year at the convention or semi Annual Convention in the opposite end of the state for purposes of promoting the Society and having fun at the same time.

[Robert Gibson]

I understand the concept.  The model railroad club I belong to built a modular layout many years ago.  The side pieces were interchangable with a double track mainline.  The problem we ran into was into was storage and transportation.  We took it to several train shows and even added more side sections as time went along.  As I recall our side sections were 24X48".  The corners were a little larger.  There might be enough members interested that could store and transport their own section(s).  It would be nice to have an operating layout at the convention every year.  Young kids especially like to watch the trains. 

[Pete Pedigo]

yes, they do.  It does not have to be the latest and greatest, most expensive of controllers or high tech.   Kids just like trains........even the big old ones.  LOL    Keeping it simple might be the mantra.

Pete

[Stew Winstandley]

N scale has an advantage for transportating and storage. And there is a Ntrak standard so that the modules fit together.

[John Taylor]

I would be interested in a modular layout because I have very little space for a layout at home.  I'd prefer HO because I have several Monon HO locos and cars but would go N gauge too.  It would be good publicity for the society to set it up where it could be seen by the public. 

[Tom Kepshire]

Although not a modeler anymore, I like the idea of the layout.