Dr. Stuart Ruben's Layout
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History/Background I was introduced to Lionel trains as a child in 1950, but by 1954, they were packed away. In 1999, I was invited on a private railcar to go from Chicago, IL to Tampa, FL and that rekindled my interest in model trains. I began to build my layout in the fall of 1999. Consistent work on the layout was finally completed in the winter of 2002, although I am still applying finishing touches. I have tried to keep a modern era layout with BNSF, UP, and Amtrak, but I still run vintage trains occasionally, including my unpacked childhood train from 1950. I have added the Hiawatha, Pioneer Zephyr, a Challenger, and soon will have a M10000. These trains are in the heritage of the lines I have concentrated on, and they don't look too out of place even, on the display shelves. The region of the country modeled, at least in my mind, is my home state of Wyoming, although some could argue it is too green with too many trees.
Layout Statistics
The size of the layout is 16' x 16' in an "L" shape. I have used Gargraves track with the curves consisting of Ross tracks. All switches are Ross and the switch motors are Tortoise. For power, I am still using my 1950 ZW Lionel transformer, but additional power is supplied by 2 other smaller Lionel transformers. The entire layout is remote controlled, including all accessories, switches and train functions. The controls are from ICC, recently bought out by Lionel. There are three separate lines on the layout although two lines are connected by a double crossover Ross switch. These two lines run MTH trains. The third line runs all Lionel and Lionel compatible trains. All three tracks can be run at the same time through the ICC controls.
The layout has 110 pounds of ballast on the tracks and over 12 gallons of glue on the layout.There are 2 miles of wiring under the table. Approximately 20 pounds of crushed foam for vegetation and scenery. About 175 people on the table. Little towns and buildings are named after family members.
Track Plan - 16' x 16'
Over all view
The black box (top-left center) is an operating full-color coded LED display of the track plan and switches.
Looking down the near leg
Looking down the far leg
Center of the action
The left tunnel portal
The oil patch
A double pedestrian walkover
Action around the Control Tower
Activity in the lumber yard
A major construction area
Moving on to the main line
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