dieselfan1's Z Scale Layout Build

[dieselfan1]

Longtime N Scaler taking the deep plunge into Z scale.
This layout will be an island walkaround setup with 3 separate loops for continuous running with no turnouts or towns . Nothing but scenery.
This way I can run Modern or 1950s.
I have the benchwork done and ready for plywood. 8" on center girders with double bridging.
I'm using the reliable cookie cutter method for the sub roadbed.
Follow along as I go.
Here's where I'm at today....

 

[dieselfan1]

I forgot to say the dimensions.
It's 17.5 ft. X 5.25 ft.
Should be a high ratio of scenery to track.

 

[Colorado Midland Modeler]

Longtime N Scaler taking the deep plunge into Z scale.
This layout will be an island walkaround setup with 3 separate loops for continuous running with no turnouts or towns . Nothing but scenery.
This way I can run Modern or 1950s.
I have the benchwork done and ready for plywood. 8" on center girders with double bridging.
I'm using the reliable cookie cutter method for the sub roadbed.
Follow along as I go.
Here's where I'm at today....

Sounds like a fun project. What prompted the change in scale, if you don't mind my asking?

 

[Rico]

I’ve always thought about doing this with Z or N, great scenery to train ratio!
I’ll be watching!

 

[migalyto]

With those dimensions you will be able to fit a lot of Z scale action and scenery into this!

I too will be watching for updates!

 

[bnsf971]

This layout will be an island walkaround setup with 3 separate loops for continuous running with no turnouts or towns .

I would recommend a single trailing-point switch and siding on each line, so you can back a train in and shut it off to run something else without handling the trains.

 

[dieselfan1]

Sounds like a fun project. What prompted the change in scale, if you don't mind my asking?

I had a garage sized layout in N Scale that I tore down to get my garage back. Sold all the N Scale stuff. Fast forward 6 years and I want another layout. I decided to go Z because I could have a larger layout without losing my whole garage

 

[dieselfan1]

I will be using Rokuhan track with all radius being 490mm. I have the room to avoid smaller radius.
No DCC . I have three Railpower 1300's setup for Z.
So far all my locos and rolling stock is AZL and my roster is getting bigger.

 

[dieselfan1]

I got the plywood glued together last night then I sanded the whole thing with some 120 grit on a flat sander. It's nice and smooth now and one big sheet.
Next is a quick coat of paint to make a nice clean slate.
I also put up some new ceiling lights.

 

[Colorado Midland Modeler]

I had a garage sized layout in N Scale that I tore down to get my garage back. Sold all the N Scale stuff. Fast forward 6 years and I want another layout. I decided to go Z because I could have a larger layout without losing my whole garage

I can definitely understand wanting your garage back, especially if you want to keep your vehicle out of the elements. Mine is full of all kinds of stuff, got to have garage sale one of these days.

 

[dieselfan1]

Painted it tan color cause I had some leftover from a bedroom.
Now to break out the track and get a plan. I already have a plan in my head. I don't do track plans.

 

[Colbert]

Nice start. I'm not a Z fan myself (too small for me) but I'll follow your work with interest.

 

[dieselfan1]

Started throwing some track around. This is very preliminary.