On the FCN over the years, I have found some things I had wished to change on the layout. So about five weeks ago, I took pen to paper and took an inventory of the things that were wrong.
The last four weekends, I have remedied those situations.
Aside from clearing everything off the layout.(things the vacuum cleaner would eat).
I replaced LEDS, touched up buildings and roads, repaired fences and washed and repainted (in spots) the basement floor.
I decided to update things on the layout and spent some time on Google Maps.
I added the following....
The Implement Dealer in Ford City, was modeled off an operation in St. Lawrence, WI. Since the time I modeled it, it has been renovated. Doing the same, I went through my spare parts box of DPM kits.
And here is the result.
Ford City Implements
The building consists of the Front and Back walls of the 'Otto Parts" kit. I had already purchased some 3D skid steers earlier this year. So, I ordered a few more along with a pair of mini excavators.
After redoing the Implement Dealer, I decided to clear-out all of my unfinished farm kits and parts stockpiles.
This resulted in following....
Farm Equipment
Pictured here are three of the four, GHQ Ford Versatile 846 tractors, that I had unbuilt. I did have two "JD" combine kits and made one into a "FORD" unit, after I found out that Ford sold combines, back in the late 1970s - mid-1980s(rebranded Claas models). I also, cleaned-out the farm equipment parts boxes and made five more of the "Gehl" Forage wagons, plus six Hay wagons. (two pictured here).
Cenex station in Randolph
In doing my airel inventory, I decided that Randolph looked "too rural". I wanted it to be "at the edge of town".
So, I added something common (found on my Google map searches) a Cenex station along with street lights. In order to gain the real-estate, I pulled out the fascia and added about 36 square inches of area.
Ford Transits
I also added some color to a pair of Oxford Diecast Ford Transits, that were collecting dust.
Show Case Minatures Ford COEs
In my spare parts/kits, I found I had three SCM Fords. Since, my last modeling of truck lines. Most of the Wisconsin-based LTL trucking firms have been bought-out by out-of-state operations. So, with the help of some old Wisconsin Southern RR decals, I created my own operation.
Finally...I had made a dispatcher's layout schematic panel with a "Dry-Erase" board and some automotive pinstriping tape. I decided it was time to upgrade that too...
Front of Computer setup, above Dispatcher's Desk.
Rear of Computer setup.
For just over $200, I purchased a 24" TV and a Mini PC, preinstalled with Windows 10.
I have already installed the JMRI package and have ordered the required components to connect the layout to the PC. I added a little table to the right side of the Dispatcher's Desk for a USB Mouse, along with a Mini Keyboard. I have also installed my Digitrax PR3, which I will wire-up this week...
I have been busy, but the layout now feels more finished than ever. Time to do some Operating !!
Jerry G.
