Current Layout by Austin Birkey
Layout Name:
"W, S & R. R.R."
Layout Status:
active
Track Type:
AF
Layout Space:
6.5' x 18'
Layout Style:
Island
Track Manufacturer:
A.C. Gilbert
Min. Radius:
20"
Ruling Grade:
4%
Mainline Track Length:
4 x 60'
Featured In:
Dispatch, May 2023
YouTube Channel:
Notes:
The layout name stands for "Wiggle, Shake & Rattle Railroad". It consists of three sections, which can be disassembled and rolled aside. The track consists of four loops. Austin built the layout as a test bed for engine and car repairs, and products he is developing for American Flyer enthusiasts.
Videos:
This is a nice overview of a good portion of Austin's layout, with some of his collectibles shown on the display case on the back wall.
(copyright © Austin Birkey; used by permission)
But, let's start at the beginning. Austin built his layout of out three sections, to make it easy to move (see one of the linked-to YouTube videos where he shows how he had to move it to a different room in his basement). He used cafetaria-style tables that can be swung and moved via built-in wheels. To these, he attached the plywood sheet which serves as the foundation of his layout.
(copyright © Austin Birkey; used by permission)
When stood upright, this is what each section looks like.
(copyright © Austin Birkey; used by permission)
All three sections were covered with green covering material, and this photo shows them set up with the early track plan in place.
(copyright © Austin Birkey; used by permission)
A couple of photos of Austin's track, now with the incline installed.
(copyright © Austin Birkey; used by permission)
(copyright © Austin Birkey; used by permission)
(copyright © Austin Birkey; used by permission)
Some photos of Austin's motive power running on his layout.
(copyright © Austin Birkey; used by permission)
(copyright © Austin Birkey; used by permission)
(copyright © Austin Birkey; used by permission)
(copyright © Austin Birkey; used by permission)
(copyright © Austin Birkey; used by permission)
(copyright © Austin Birkey; used by permission)
(copyright © Austin Birkey; used by permission)
The following photos show some of the buildings and accessories on Austin's layout.
(copyright © Austin Birkey; used by permission)
(copyright © Austin Birkey; used by permission)
(copyright © Austin Birkey; used by permission)
(copyright © Austin Birkey; used by permission)
(copyright © Austin Birkey; used by permission)
(copyright © Austin Birkey; used by permission)
(copyright © Austin Birkey; used by permission)
(copyright © Austin Birkey; used by permission)