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 track plan

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′

Kato Unitrack layout 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

Kato N scale track: List

Kato N scale track

Download this track plan here:

Download PDF (private use only)

Donations welcome!

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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

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