Train Tables

MODULE STANDARDS

We call them modules, since that is the terminology that the NASG (National Association of S-Gauger’s) uses. Our club modules are a variation of the NASG standard.  

 The purpose of these Module Standards is to establish a minimum set of specifications that will enable a club member to construct a module that is compatible with modules constructed by other members.  Although it is expected that each member will be responsible for setting up his module and connecting it to the adjoining modules, the goal is that any member who is familiar with this standard will be able to connect any module to any other module.  Within the rules established by these standards, members are free to establish track arrangements and scenery themes as they wish.  Cooperation with other members is encouraged and the club will take this into account when establishing the module arrangement at shows. However, space restrictions and module availability at specific shows make it impossible to guarantee that modules will always be arranged in any specific configuration.

Top: 36 inches wide and 70 inches long.

Use either wafer board or plywood 1/4" or 3/8" thickness. You don't want your module too heavy to carry. When you buy the board you want, have Home Depot or Lowe's cut the board to 70 inches long and then cut lengthwise so that the top board is exactly 36 inches wide and 70 inches long. This allows 7 pieces of 10 inch straight track to be laid down for the two mainlines. The piece that is cut off will be 70 inches long and about 11-7/8 inches wide. This will be your backboard.

Backboard: Approx. 6 inches tall and 70 inches long. They are usually made from remnant of wafer board or plywood and should be painted a pale blue.

Side Boards and Supports: Use five (5) 1x4x6 pine boards.

Make sure these boards are straight and not twisted or bowed. You will need the instructions to be able to put it together unless a club member is there to help you.

Four Legs made from 2x2 boards. Top board height is exactly 36 inches. Your legs will be cut last and will be slightly less than 36 inches long. Subtract the board thickness from 36 to get the correct length. These boards must also be very straight.

Other items needed:

Four clamps to clamp your module sides to the modules on either side of yours.

Screw - 1-1/2 inches long are best to screw all the parts together.

Paint the backboard sky blue; add personal touches if you are an artist; clouds, mountains, buildings, etc

We use outdoor carpeting to cover the top board. We staple it down - NO Glue. Currently we are looking for a source for this material.  Every now and then Lowes or some other hardware store will have it available.  You just have to watch for it and get it whenever it becomes available.  It usually goes out quickly too.

You will need to keep your module dry so it does not warp. You will also need a way to transport it to the train shows we attend, keeping it dry out of the rain or snow. Most club members use a truck, van or trailer - use whatever works for you.

Each module must have two mainline tracks that have only wide radius curves.  All other tracks may be designed and constructed according to the personal preferences of the builder.

Each module must have a clear plastic panel 2 inches high attached to the front of the module at all shows in order reduce the chance engines or cars will fall to the floor in the event of a derailment.  The plastic strips are held in place by 2.5 inch dowls.  Quarter inch holes are drilled into the front of the module about every 12 inches  and the dowls are inserted into them at the start of the show and them removed at the end.