Pre 2004 Layout
This 24' x 11' layout preceded the SSPRR Run Room and was located in what is now the south end of the Run Room.
Photography and original article by Jim A and Ron G.
Track and Switches This layout used Lionel 031 and 072 track and switches. Gargraves track and Ross dual curve turnouts with NJI switch machines wired for non derailing were used for the inside track of the double-track helix.
Power The initial power was Lionel postwar ZWs. The final setup was Lionel postwar ZWs and MTH Z4000s on individual blocks for all main track with Lionel's TMCC remote control or MTH Remote controlling the MTH Z4000. Lighting and accessories were powered by Lionel postwar Zs. All 120V duplex receptacles in the train room were wired with bottom half switched and the top plug power on all the time. Shutting off the train room wall switches shut off the complete train layout.
Features The double-tracked helix was 6' in diameter and 4' - 4" tall. One of the best "train buff" views was from inside looking out where you could see an engine on one round, and a string of cars and the caboose right before your eyes winding down the next round of the helix. The day the photographs were taken, the Big Boy was running with a 47 foot (yes foot) string of cars down the hallway into and around the recreation room (photos below).
Diagram of the Layout
West Tables East Tables
Overall view of the East table
Note the movable
connecting bridge to the west table.
Another view of the east table
The double track helix showing access track at bottom
Close up of the helix
Scratch built motorized turn table
Intermodal crane with helix in background
Photo of the west side table
West control panel with MTH Z4000 on floor for Big Boy track
The MTH 20-3021-1 Big Boy ready to roll down the hall
The Big Boy going up and down the hall on carpet
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The COO at the controls
Please any questions or comments.