BTS Club Layouts

The BTS currently has two main club layouts that we use at meetings and present at shows. In addition to the club layouts, many members have portable layouts they are pleased to present at shows as well.

The following are the details of the BTS club layouts.

OO Layout

After many years of faithful service, we have replaced the former OO modular layout with one that is based on the HO T-Track standard. This will be a multi-year project before the new layout is fully complete.

The new club layout will be a modular layout, designed to support multiple configurations. This new layout will include the capability to support DCC operation as well as adding additional storage tracks and some operation potential. For this layout, we will be using Kato Unitrack in place of the former flex track sections. We will also change from hand built custom modules to pre-built laser cut modules. These two changes will simplify the construction and tracklaying. In addition, the trackwork should be more reliable.

The new layout will be built in four phases; each additional phase will increase the size and operational potential and interest for the layout. The following sections provide additional details on how the layout will grow.

Phase 1

Phase 1 - a roughly 5 foot by 13 foot modular layout consisting of eight modules; four, 2 foot square corners and four, 2 foot by 4 foot scenic modules. The layout includes a dual track oval with some operation potential in addition to continuous running.

Phase 2

Phase 2 - this work adds four additional 2 foot by 4 foot scenic modules that expand the layout to a 13 foot by 13 foot square.

Phase 2.5

Phase 2.5 - this will add a two module staging/fiddle yard. The additional two modules will extend the layout to a 13 foot by 17 foot rectangle.

Phase 3

Phase 3 - this phase will add an additional eight modules, four corners and four scenic. Adding the modules converts the layout to a 17 foot U shape. The additional modules will add scenery sections and additional operating options.

N-Scale (T-Trak) Layout

In 2019, after many years of focusing on OO scale, the club decided to build a small N-Scale T-Trak based layout. The T-Trak layout is designed for those club members more interested in N scale to have a place to run their trains at exhibitions, and to show there is more to British themed model railroading than OO scale. The T-Trak layout was also developed to be used in those shows where the main layout could not be displayed. As a result, a small, six module T-Trak layout was created.

The club created the first six modules, four corners and two straights. The initial six modules were scenicked by the wonderful work of Gil and his wife.

Though the N-Scale layout has taken a back stage to the OO layout for some years, as a result of more club members being interested in N-scale, interest in the T-Trak layout has resurged and new modules are being contemplated. Some newer club members already have T-Trak modules and they are bringing them to meetings and exhibitions.

T-Trak Layout