Kato N scale track plan
Track plan idea on 4′ x 2′ for a rural idyll. A good size for model railroading on a coffee table as well as for beginners.
Kato N scale layout
What is it all about? A simple oval with a small station. Due to the compact size of 4′ x 2′, there are no inclines and ramps. Instead, we have all tracks on one level. So this idea is a perfect N scale layout for beginners.
The station has an additional track where trains can pass. A goods shed or a small factory building completes the scene. Here realized with a hall, where freight wagons can be shunted into for loading.
Steam locomotives get their supplies at the coaling stage. A diesel filling station could also be placed there instead. And we have a sawmill some distance away which ist served from the station, too.
To spice up the scene visually, a part of the terrain at the rear edge is lowered to install a bridge, which spans a little river and the road. The simpler option would be a railroad crossing instead.
KATO track plan 4′ x 2′
Facts
- 4 x 2 ft., which corresponds to 122 x 61 cm
- No ramps, no inclines
- easy to build
- Tight curves hidden in the tunnel
- One straight tracks must be adjusted to size. More: YouTube: How to cut KATO tracks
Download this track plan here:
Download PDF (private use only)
Kato N scale track: List
About KATO railroad
Kato is a Japanese model train manufacturer that has a good reputation. The manufacturer is best known worldwide for the Kato N gauge track system, also known as KATO Unitrack. It includes tracks, locomotives and wagons. Kato HO model trains are also available.
Kato N gauge tracks are considered robust and reliable. Main feature is the attached ballast bed. Points have a stop function that can be used to de-energize sidings or entire sections of a layout.
There is also the KATO Unitram system for streetcars. It has particularly tight radii.
Why should I opt for KATO N scale?
There are many advantages:
Perfect for beginners
Standardized track system, easy to handle
Ready made ballast bed
Extra ballasting not necessary
Easy click-and-play
Clever Unijoiner System
Robust
Perfect for temporary model railway layouts or model railroading on a table
Reliable
Derailments are rare
Points with hidden drives
Pleasing appearance because the turnout drives are in the ballast bed
Turnouts with a slim angle
In addition to standard points KATO also offers elegant looking turnouts with a wide angle
Curves with superelevation available
These standard curves have wide radii, looks great
Concret sleepers and wooden sleepers available
Track design as you like
Bridges and slopes available
KATO offers various bridges, viaducts and pier systems
Tip: Length modification is possible
Requires some manual work, but can be done
KATO N scale: Disadvantages
No double slip crossings
No real disadvantage, as many consider such crossings to be prone to derailments
No curved tournouts
You may miss these space-saving points when planning a small layout
Rigid track geometry
Can make track planning somewhat inflexible
Ballast bed not very true to the original
However, additional ballasting is possible