Club Standards

Let us begin by saying these standards are being set up to allow for the maximum freedom of design and construction.  Current thinking is that if it fits it will probably work (given the vagaries of working with wood in uncertain conditions of temperature & humidity.

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Table Dimensions:  Club standards have been modified so a member following the standard can create thru (straight) modules of virtually any length as long as it conforms at one end or both to attach to other modules.  Likewise, corner modules of nearly any configuration can be contemplated so long as 1 or more "ends" are available for attachment to other club modules.  Connections between modules are of a single  track with a 5" setback from the front edge of the module.  If you are building a series of modules, interconnections of track across module limits is entirely left to the builder, except at the ends of the series.

       

That being said, HOn3 track should be code 70 with mainline & passing sidings, #6 turnouts and 26" as a minimum mainline radius. 

 

A "standard straight thru table frame is normally 72" long x 24" wide w/Top of Rail at 48" above the floor.  Standard backdrops, if used, are recommended to conform to 24" high and permanently attached to the module.   Corner modules start at 24" on each of the "mating" ends, but, once again, as long as the 5" setback for track for a mating connection there should be no problems.

 

For power and control we use DCC by North Coast Engineering, so turnouts need to be DCC "friendly" (polarity of each point matches the polarity of the adjacent stock rail) to eliminate locations for momentary short circuits.

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One hallmark of our newer standards is the quest for a  tool-less installation.  While we will always need at least a level during installation, we  only need a screwdriver unless some problem crops up.  We are in the process of eliminating the screwdriver.