DIY Network

Building a Model Turntable and Roundhouse Learn how to create unique model railroad features from a kit. From "Workin' On the Railroad" episode DWRR-108L

Host Chris Chianelli is joined by guest David Popp, associate editor of Model Railroader Magazine, to showcase two easy-to-build kits for a turntable and a roundhouse.

The pre-fabricated and plastic panels, which are weathered by painting a water-based gray wash onto them prior to construction, are easy to assemble. Some of the construction elements for the turntable kit are also featured.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

Adding a Turntable and Roundhouse to a Model Layout

Note: The Atlas Model Railroad Company pre-fabricated kit is the model David and Chris use for the demonstration.

• The plastic pieces come painted (figure A) so all you have to do is assemble and go. No painting involved!

• You will want to use a water-based gray wash on the brick pieces (figure B) to bring out the detail and to bring out the weathering aspect. Do this "before" you assemble the roundhouse--and lay the parts out flat and let them dry.

• The turntable come pre-assembled and a crank that you have to attach on the end for operation.

• The motor kit (figure C) is encased in a plastic housing that fits over the turntable.

  Note: This particular turntable is called an indexing turntable, which means it will automatically stop at each track position. It's mechanically indexed.

• You can buy another roundhouse kit and add on in modular fashion. You can add as many bays as you desire as long as you have the space.

• The turntable can be wired to run with a DCC system.

• Follow the manual instructions for operating the turntable (figure D).

RESOURCES :

Magazines and Books on Railroading
Kalmbach Publishing Co.
Website: www.modelrailroaderbooks.com

Trains and Accessories in HO
Athearn
Website: www.athearn.com

Trains and Accessories (All Scales)
Bachmann Industries, Inc.
Website: www.bachmanntrains.com

DCC Systems
NCE Corp.
Website: www.ncedcc.com

Trains, Accessories and Scenic Materials
Life-Like Products
Website: www.lifelikeproducts.com

N and Z Scale Trains
Micro-Trains Line Co.
Website: www.micro-trains.com

Atlas Model Railroad Co, Inc.
378 Florence Ave.
Hillside, NJ 07205
Phone: 908-687-0880

River Pass Kit, Scenic Supplies and Modules for all Scales
Woodland Scenics
Website: www.woodlandscenics.com

Model Railroad Products (All Scales)
Wm. K. Walthers, Inc.
Website: www.walthers.com

GUESTS :

David Popp
Kalmbach Publishing Co.
Website: www.kalmbach.com