Return Loop Installed

 The return loop and mini-yard have been installed in the basement. I can finally store some trains and turn a train around. Eventually I'll be building a terminal station between two of the tracks.

The above picture shows the connection. In this photo, just a piece of plywood bridges the gap.

I've since added a section of elevated structure to bridge the gap. The track in this section still needs to be detailed - add third rails, add guard rails, paint and weather.

The above is a view of the completed structure. At some point I'll add a retaining wall to cover the end of the return loop module. 

Turnout control is via Touch Toggles and I've created a rudimentary control panel. The turnouts are controlled via LED touch toggles in the track plan, the two toggles on the left are pending wiring for reverse movement signals. I envision having to manually release an outbound train via manually toggling the signals. 

Some never finished projects seem to hang out now in the yard:

I've also been trying to finish the structure for the stairs. This has been rather difficult as all the parts don't quite fit as well together as I'd like. I'll be adding roofs and lighting to the stairs. Right now I'm just trying to get the structure in place. 

And finally, some of the wood cars paid a quick trip around the layout:

Work Progress on the Return Loop Module

 Throughout the summer, I've been working on completing the return loop module. Due to space constraints, I've been constructing the module in the garage.

The radius of the loop is 16" and the turnouts are a mix of # 4's and 2.1's, which match the 16" radius.

Turnout control will be via Tortoise switch machines, controlled by Barrett Hill Touch Toggles.

Each turnout will have its own signal for routing. These are 3D printed from my own design.

I'm currently wrapping up the wiring and ballasting the track. Hopefully I can have this in the basement in the next month or so before the weather turns cold!

New Return Loop Module

 I've taken a break from working on the Kedzie Station to start the trackwork on a new return loop module. This will attached to the right of the station module. However, the trackwork will be at ground level as I didn't want to try to make all elevated structure. Also, I'll be including some storage tracks. This "could" be considered a very condensed replica of the Douglas Park's terminal and shops. I haven't decided if I'll include a passenger platform.

The turnouts are a mix of # 4's and # 2.1's, those will match the 16" radius return loop. I'll be a tight fit but space is limited.

I'll be moving my bookcase and adding the module at the top of the following picture:

And one more overhead view,

Slow grind for the staircase

Work has kept me very busy the last few weeks so not much progress to report.

I've been slowly grinding away at the staircases. Its been a challenge as getting everything to fit together has been difficult. I've changed designs several times so far to try to get everything to fit.

More progress

 Both platforms are in and the LED lights (30 total) are all wired. Some progress photos:

I still need to finish the center catwalks and add more platform details (pay phones, benches, people) but its finally coming together. 

Progress on the Kedzie Station

 Some progress on the Kedzie station as signage is being added.

I'm still working on the other platform. That is being built "off the structure" as its easier to work on in that manner.

I've also started some base scenery coloring:

Car Projects in the Works

 Now as I'm attempting to get back into a habit of posting, here's a sample of some of the cars that hopefully will make a trip to the paint shop soon ...

A three car train of CNS&M cars, with a diner in the middle:

A CNS&M wood coach. I'll be updating this with the roof mats and 3rd rail beams to run on the elevated:

One of three CA&E cars:

This car was of particular challenge: As received, it was built to proto-48 gauge. So, to get to at least pose on the L, I had to de-solder the trucks and ever so slightly pull the wheel sets to normal (?) standard O gauge. Then, I soldered the trucks back together. For now that'll do until I decide how I'll power these. 

One item of concern is car storage. I'm rapidly running out of room:

Pay no heed to the Stooges, they just keep an eye on things. But I've got my Evanston 1-50 Car just chilling, plus 2 sets of Car Works 6000's, one flat door and one curved door. As its my railroad - I've chosen Mint Green and Alpine White for one set and Spirit of Chicago Grey for another. 

A print by Mitch Markovitz of CSL 144 also keeps watch on things.  

The rest of the fleet lives in a bookcase.