Three months effort is finally ready to the final test! Will the train run smoothly on the two main tracks? Everything else does not matter, if trains cannot run smoothly through Loewenherz modules. My Märklin mentor René setup the test in his large basement train room. We connected my 2 modules to his module. We tested if the test train will run from Module 1a to Module 1b, both within my module zone, and to his neighbouring module. A beautiful volunteer for our test train – Baureihe 95 with sound! Continue reading Testing 1, 2, 3 …. and We Are Good to GO!

A lot of efforts are put in (understandbly) the visible part of a layout – it is the part that any modellers want to wow and impress. It is the part that visitors will remember the most. A good layout is also about taking care of the invisible but equally important part – what lies unseen. Just like a car, you want to ensure the transmission mechanism (in our case wiring), wheel axles and brake plates (legs and bolts that hold our modules together) work properly and maintainable. The keyword is MAINTAINABILITY! No one wants any frustrations arising from poor … Continue reading Let’s Peek Underneath

Now that the structures are completed, I started identifying the placement for the key elements such as plinths, tunnel, miniature railway park trackage, etc., which forms the visible elements of Loewenherz. As good as you could plan on paper (or on computer), the final check is when you sight the actual available space on the modules and adjust your plan accordingly. Some compromises are required as a result of the actual spatial constraints and for overall aesthetic. For example, a café in a Donnerbüchse (Thunderbox) baggage car supposed to be placed at the bottom right corner (see above pic) near … Continue reading On Your Mark, Get Set …. Reality Check!

Finally, the framework and support structures for Loewenherz are finally completed. The two modules – Module 1a (within MIST-61 it is known as “Bahnpark 1“) and Module 1b (aka “Bahnpark 2″) – forms a unit and the visible part of Loewenherz Railway Park Bad Niedrigsrode. While the two modules intended to function as one unit, it is always possible to display and operate each of them separately. Within MIST-61, we maintain the flexibilty that member’s module(s) are configurable and interchangeable to fit the available exhibition hall space. You will notice the variations in baseboard heights both at the visitor’s side … Continue reading When Two Becomes One = Loewenherz