Library - Magazine Articles by John Armstrong

Layout Plan for a Santa Fe Branch Line

Model Railroader 2006-08 pg. 56     Scale: HO     Category: "Layout Design"

The late author discusses how he developed a track plan for a client, Jared Harper, to model the ATSF Alma District in a 13' by 19' space.

Mainline Through the Mountains

Model Railroader 2005-04 pg. 61     Scale: HO     Category: "Layout Design"

The master of track design discusses how he met his client's requirements for modeling a portion of the Southern Pacific's Shasta Route. The article includes diagrams for the mushroom-style, 22' x 45' layout.

Meet the Mushroom

Model Railroader 1987-10 pg. 80     Scale: (none)     Category: "Layout Design"

This article introduces the now famous mushroom design where both levels on a double-deck layout are at an ideal height simply by having a step-up platform for the higher elevation. The solution is embedded in an article about how he designed a large layout for one of his clients.

Signaling and Operation on the Canandaigua Southern

Model Railroader 1996-09 pg. 98     Scale: O     Category: "Signaling"

The late John Armstrong describes how he built and manages the signals on his O-scale layout. The article includes a trackplan of his layout, several photos, and construction drawings for the signals he uses. He then describes how they use a computer during operating sessions.

The Appalachian Southern

Model Railroader 1982-06 pg. 93     Scale: HO     Category: "Layout Design"

A double-deck HO-scale layout for a medium-sized room.