I think it would be interesting if you added an old steam loco being cut up, as a signs of things to come.

@InterurbanEra

10 ай бұрын

Splendid idea. I have no lack of engines to do for this. I'm also considering using an older steam engine as a mobile steam plant for the backshop as was common practice in those days as well.

Days become better when we hear more on ALTA California

@InterurbanEra

10 ай бұрын

I really appreciate this, I'm glad to bring such joy to you and fellow modelers with layout updates!

Congratulations, Miles! It looks incredible. Can't wait for more streetcar shenanigans ;)

@InterurbanEra

10 ай бұрын

Thanks so much, it means a lot coming from you! I can't wait to show you the next video.

It's amazing seeing paper mockups, wooden blocks, and unfinished foam where the mesa and Esquina are and realizing that that wasn't so long ago!

@InterurbanEra

10 ай бұрын

Right? It seems so surreal, especially considering most of the structures so far have been scratchbuilt vs. kit purchases!

I absolutely love the premise and execution of your layout. Great work

@InterurbanEra

10 ай бұрын

Thank you so much! I'm so excited to show you what I've been working on this month as well, so stay tuned!

Loved the summary of progress! ❤ it's looking great

“How long does it take to build a model railroad” its always ongoing and never ending which is always exciting

Excellent layout.

@InterurbanEra

10 ай бұрын

Why thank you! Stick around for more layout progress in the coming weeks, I got a lot done this month.

Absolutely beautiful layout! I love your era and region. Awesome choice! I’m excited to see how this progresses into the future!

@InterurbanEra

10 ай бұрын

I'm so glad you get a kick out of it! Lots more beautiful things to come, so please subscribe and I'll look forward to your comments on the next video!

Cool video

I love that you used Phillips Hue for your backdrop lighting. I gota remember that one.

Really liking how this is coming along. Not too different from ideas I've been playing with for too long to mention. So far though you have gotten trains running and I just keep adding boxes to my storage pile; family stuff keeps things interesting as one ages, not always good for making a layout however. Keep up the great work!

@InterurbanEra

10 ай бұрын

Thank you so much! What layout concept are you hoping to build? I definitely know the life of "layout is functional, collecting more models must continue" feeling. Breaking free of that even with family commitments can be difficult, I found that working on "quick" small structure projects or detailing road vehicles helps encourage scenery to begin.

Every aspect of this layout so far is looking amazing!

I always wonder where you tend to get your interurbans from. While I am building the branch line like how I mentioned in previous ALTA episodes, I am planning to make an Interurban layout someday, and I would like some advice on some models to purchase to start my collection. As for the ALTA II, this is starting to look ASTOUNDING from the lighting. I’ve gotten LEDs for night running, but I’ll never be able to comprehend how those pale in comparison to your roof lights. Can’t wait to see how the carbarn turns out!

@InterurbanEra

10 ай бұрын

So, there's broadly three types of interurbans/streetcar models I buy: 1. RTR models from Bachmann & Bowser, with DCC/Sound to save time and enjoy immediately 2. Suydam Brass Interurbans. Made in the thousands in the 60's/70's, they often sell for $125 on eBay / Brasstrains. They'll usually require additional investment of a $90 NWSL Stanton power truck to ensure they run with DCC. It's not difficult to do, but it takes care. The original drives have open frame motors which cannot be used in DCC. They also take serious care to paint/detail upgrade. Once all that work is done, they tend to look pretty spectacular. 2b. Brass offerings from more obscure manufacturers / Importers. My Chicago streetcars are made by Fairfield Traction Co, and are pretty beautiful models. I paid $100 & $80 for the two I have. They're obscure, but not hard to find. 3. Resin kits from Funaro & Camerlengo. These are cheapest to buy at $30-40 each, but require seriously advanced modelmaking skills and the aforementioned NWSL Stanton drive. These will take the longest to build, take the most time, and hopefully will be worth the result.