DIY Network

Modular Construction Learn how to hide modular section seams on your layout. From "Workin' On the Railroad" episode DWRR-108L

In this final section host Chris Chianelli is joined by guest David Popp, associate editor of Model Railroader Magazine, to demonstrate how to hide the seams of two modular sections. This is done by filling in the track rails with ballast, and the seams with ground foam scenic materials.

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	Figure A
	Figure B

Materials:

modular sections to be connected
connector track
ballast
plastic cup
small art brush
spray bottle
ketchup bottle
white glue
ground foam scenery

Hiding the Seams

1. Pour ballast in the rail ties and across the seam (figure A).

2. Brush the excess ballast off.

3. For excessively large seams, pack in paper towel pieces first and then cover with ballast.

4. Wet down the ballast with a spray bottle of water and a few drops of dish soap.

5. Wet down ballast using white glue and water (50/50 dilution).

6. Sprinkle ground foam into seams where the vegetation resides (figure B).

Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for assembling your layout's turntable.

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