FasTrack Modular Railroad Manual Ver 2

Lionel
Modular Railroad
Specification Manual
Ver 2.0
© Copyright 2012 by Lionel Collectors Club of America
Lionel®, Circle L Logo®, FasTrack®, and are registered trademarks of Lionel, LLC;
LEGACY™ is a trademark of Lionel, LLC; All rights reserved.
Lionel FasTrack Modular Railroad
Specifications
Introduction
F rom the beginning, the Lionel FasTrack Modular Railroad has been a joint effort
between Lionel L.L.C. and the Lionel Collectors Club of America. In February of
2012, the Lionel Collectors Club of America (LCCA) formed a committee to take on
the task of designing standards for a FasTrack Module Layout System. Lionel was
also enthusiastic about the prospects of a national FasTrack module specification
and the committee was joined by three Lionel representatives.
The following specifications detail the work of the committee. Although this
document details all the information necessary for the construction and wiring of
the modules, we expect additions to be made to this manual, including additional
photographs and layout suggestions.
An initial set of modules was built by TW TrainWorx and premiered at the LCCA
Annual Convention in July of 2012. With tasks such as module construction,
wiring, scenery and track laying, this is a great project to involve the entire family.
And when completed, you’ll have the opportunity to join with others and create a
large layout, and finally the opportunity to run your trains using Lionel’s Legacy
Command Control System.
The system has been designed to allow a variety of uses. In addition to assembling
a layout at an event where individuals gather with their modules, the modules can
be included in a home layout and be easily removed to attend an event. The
modules also provide a great way to assemble a home layout that can be easily
rearranged or enlarged.
Those interested in participating in the Lionel FasTrack Modular Railroad system

can do so in several ways:
• Build the module from scratch. Full details including plans and specifications
are included in this manual. Those with the skill and equipment necessary
can build their own modules from scratch. In order that your module mates
with those by others, it is essential that dimensions be strictly adhered to.
• Build the module from a Lionel kit. Lionel is offering FasTrack Modular
Railroad kits for the straight and both corner modules. Each kit will include
all hardware, wood framing, electricals and two 5 inch sections of FasTrack
used between adjoining modules. The corner modules also include a full size
paper template. You supply the plywood top, the 2 x 2 legs and the track.
These kits will be available through www.LionelStore.com.
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Page 1
• For those building the kit or from scratch, Lionel is also offering an approved
No. 6-37150 Lionel FasTrack Modular Railroad Template. The plastic template
will ensure precise placement of both track and rotolock latches on both
sides of the module. It is a useful tool that can be used over and over again.
The same template works for all four types of modules and is available in the
Lionel online store - www.LionelStore.com.
• Fully assembled modules in a variety of styles from bare tables to fully

decorated pieces built to your personal requests will be available from TW
TrainWorx - www.twtrainworx.com.
Overview of Plans
Sheet 1 illustrates a top view of the straight module

Sheet 2 shows an assembly view of the straight module
Sheet 3 shows a top view of the full corner module
Sheet 4 shows an assembly view of the full corner module
Sheet 5 shows a top view of a straight module and two full corner modules
Sheet 6 shows a top view of two reversible corner modules
Sheet 7 shows an assembly view of the reversible corner module
Sheet 8 shows details of the steel leg bracket
Sheet 9 illustrates top view of the small radius module
Sheet 10 illustrates an underside view of the small radius module
Sheet 11 shows the module template
Sheet 12 explains how to use the template
A new section with track and module layout plans has been added to this manual.
In this new section are plans that illustrate methods for incorporating O72 switch-
es on straight modules. Also in this section are several suggested module layout
plans in a variety of shapes. We expect this section to expand with additional plans
for module setups.
Materials Needed
Listed on the following pages are the contents of each of the kits. Those who wish
to build a module, whether from a kit or from scratch will find the details for the
parts necessary in these lists. Construction of the table frame is critical and it is
strongly suggested that when placing the track and the rotolocks, all measure-
ments be taken from the front of the module, rather than from both front and
back. Whether building from scratch or from a kit, use of the FasTrack Module
Template is recommended to ensure precise placement of the rotolock latches and
the FasTrack.
Sources for some of the more difficult to find hardware are listed at the end of this
manual.
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Page 2
Straight Module Kit
See drawing sheets 1,2 and 8
Quantity Description
2 Pine framing 45 inches x 3 inches x 3/4 inch thick., rabbeted as

shown in drawing sheet 1. The kits include clear, finger jointed pine
which has been cut to size. This results in straight and relatively flat
pieces.
2 3/4 inch birch plywood for the end pieces of the table frame, 28 1/2
inches by 2 1/2 inches. These are notched for the rotolocks as
indicated in drawing sheet 1.
4 Wood biscuit joiners. These aid in precise assembly of the table rails
in the kit.
4 #6 flat head wood screws 1 1/2 inches long - if biscuits are not used
8 are required
4 Steel leg brackets as per drawing sheet 8.
4 Hex head bolts for leg brackets 3/8-16 x 1 inch long
10 #8 Pan head screws 3/4 inch long to secure leg brackets and
terminal strip
2 Rotolock sets (Each includes a male and female componant) These
are used to connect adjoining module tables.
1 Rotolock wrench
8 #10-24 flat head bolt 1 1/2 inches long to secure rotolocks
8 #10 washers
8 #10-24 Nylon insert locknuts
4 Leveling mount for legs w/1/4-20 thread
4 1/4-20 threaded inserts for bottom of legs
1 8 wire wiring harness
1 8 position terminal strip
4 Cable ties
2 1/2 inch cable clamp
2 1 inch cable clamp
4 #8 pan head screws 1/2 inch long used to secure cable clamps
23 #4D finishing nails - used to secure plywood top to frame
2 5 inch sections of FasTrack
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Page 3
Full Corner Module Kit
See drawing sheets 1, 3, 4, and 8
5 Pine framing 3 inches x 3/4 inch thick, cut at lengths and rabbeted
as shown in drawing sheet 3. The kits include clear, finger jointed
pine which has been cut to size. This results in straight and
relatively flat pieces.
in the kit.
8 are required
terminal strip
1 Rotolock wrench
8 #10 washers
4 Cable ties
1 Full size paper template for table frame
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Page 4
Reversible Narrow Corner Module Kit
6 Pine framing 3 inches x 3/4 inch thick, cut at lengths and rabbeted as
shown in drawing sheets 6 and 7. The kits include clear, finger jointed
pine which has been cut to size. This results in straight and relatively
flat pieces.
inches by 2 1/2 inches. These are notched the for rotolocks as indi-
cated in drawing sheet 1.
in the kit.
8 are required
10 #8 Pan head screws 3/4 inch long to secure leg brackets and termi-
nal strip
1 Rotolock set (Includes a male and female componant) These are used
to connect adjoining module tables.
1 Rotolock wrench
4 #10 washers
4 Cable ties
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Small Radius Corner Module Kit
5 Pine framing 3 inches x 3/4 inch thick, cut at lengths and rabbeted
as shown in drawing sheet 3. The kits include clear, finger jointed
pine which has been cut to size. This results in straight and
relatively flat pieces.
in the kit.
8 are required
terminal strip
1 Rotolock wrench
8 #10 washers
4 Cable ties
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Module Assembly Notes
The plywood top and the legs are not included in the kits. The legs are 2 x 2s,
which actually measure 1 1/2 inches square, and are easily available at most
lumber supply stores. These should be cut to a length of 31 inches and leveler
mounts installed at the bottom with threaded inserts (see sources below). In
addition, you will need glue. We recommend the yellow carpenters glue. This glue
is strong, dries quickly and is easily sanded once dry.
Begin by assembling the table frame sections. Once the frame is together, add
the four leg brackets, one in each corner. These should be installed flush with the
lower edge of the frame, allowing a view of the top of the leg when fully installed.
The leg should be fully seated against the underside of the plywood top.
The plywood top sets within the rabbeted notch at the front and back edges of the
table frame and is flush with the two ends. Due to the design of the table frame,
the plywood top can be a bit smaller than exact size without effecting measure-
ments made with the template. The template takes all measurements from the
table frame not the plywood. It is important that the plywood not be cut
larger than the correct size. Should the plywood extend beyond the table frame
on either end, the module will not properly connect to another module.
Rotolock and Track Placement
An important aspect of any modular system is the ability to join adjacent

modules together, while accurately maintaining track spacing between modules.
This requires that both the rotolocks and the FasTrack be accurately positioned
on the module. The photo below shows the male and female componants of a
rotolock. An installed male rotolock componant can also be seen with the rotolock
wrench in place and the rotolock in a partially locked position.
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When making measurements to place the track and the rotolocks, be sure
to make all measurements from the front edge. The front being the long
edge nearest the track. In this way, any slight variation in top measurements will
be compensated for. An easy and accurate way to accomplish this is to use the
approved No. 6-37150 Lionel FasTrack Modular Railroad Template. The plastic
template will ensure precise placement of both track and rotolock latches on
both sides of the module. The same template works for all four types of modules
and is available in the Lionel onsite store - LionelStore.com. When using the
template, the table is assembled first and the template then used to accurately
locate the mounting holes for the rotolock components. When placing the rotolock
components, the male portion, the larger of the two, is placed on the right side
and the female portion on the left side of the module, when facing module with
the track side at the front. See the next section and drawing sheets 11 and 12 for
additional information on using the template.
Left side - Lionel “L” face up Right side - Lionel “L” face down
Fastrack Modular Railroad Template
The module template provides a way to accurately place the track and the
rotolocks on the module to ensure that each module will connect with another. As
shipped, the module template must be assembled by inserting the four supplied
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wooden dowel pins into the specified holes as shown in drawing sheet 11.
Once the table is built, the module template is placed flat on the table. The portion
labeled FRONT in the drawing goes against the long edge of the table nearest the
track and the longer portion against the left or right side. For the left side, the
template is positioned with the Lionel “L” facing up. Think of the “L” as left. For the
right side, the template is turned face down. See drawing sheet 12 for the correct
holes to use on each side. The module template can be used with all three types
of modules and only one is needed, regardless of how many modules you are
building.
Assembling a Reversible Corner
The reversible corner module can be assembled as either an inside or an outside

curve. The right and left locations for the wiring harness and the rotolocks will be
on opposite sides than stated above if the corner is to be assembled as an inside
curve.
FasTrack Requirements
In order to ensure compatibility between modules, there are some strict

requirements for the placement of track. Even with these requirements there is
the possibility for variety in track layout.
Straight Modules
The straight module allows for the greatest number of options. The minimal
requirement would be for two mainlines as shown in drawing sheet 1. Dimensions
are given for placement of the two lines. The Lionel FasTrack Module Template
will ensure proper placement. The module measures 45 inches in length, but 2
1/2 inches at each end must be allowed for the 5 inch section of FasTrack that will
join two modules. This leaves 40 inches which is equal to four 10 inch sections
of straight FasTrack. The drawing on sheet 1 shows one 30 inch straight and
one 10 inch straight section. This would be the recommended arrangement as it
eliminates two track joints on the module.
Each line is spaced 6 inches on center from the next and up to three lines may be
used on a straight module. This geometry allows the use of O72 switches to be
used between lines if desired. The third line was designed as a siding which can
terminate with a bumper or be a passing siding using another straight module and
O72 switch to connect again to the second line. Drawings in the Track Plan section
of this manual illustrate plans for adding O72 switches to a straight module.
Corner Modules
The track requirements for the corner modules are more restrictive. The outside
line on a corner module is made up of four sections of O84 FasTrack curves. The
inner line is made up of two sections of O72 FasTrack curves. This arrangement
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was chosen so that even the largest of Lionel’s locomotives could be run on either
line. Each corner module is 45 degrees, allowing for a variety of configurations.
Two are required to make a 90 degree turn.
New Small Radius Corner
In response to many requests, we have designed a new corner module that uses
O48 FasTrack curves for the outside line and O36 for the inside line. Only one
is required for a 90 degree turn. Plans for this new module are included in the
Drawing section of this manual. This new size allows the system to be used in
a smaller area and is especially suited for typical home layout applications, or
anywhere that space would not permit the larger O84 curves. Please note that in
order to allow all Lionel locos to operate, the wider radius modules are preferred
for Lionel/LCCA sponsored events.
Module Legs
Legs for the modules are made from 2 x 2 lumber. This type of lumber typically
measures 1 1/2 inches square. Each leg is cut at 31 inches tall and a leveler leg
installed with the use of a threaded insert. Sources for these are listed at the end
of this document. The leveler leg provides an inch of adjustment to the height
of the leg. The assembled modules and module kits make use of a steel leg
bracket which has been made specifically for these modules. The steel bracket
adds support to the module frame and allows each leg to be easily attached and
removed. Use of this bracket is not mandatory. The leg can also be attached with a
bolt through the outside frame and the leg.
Electrical Connections
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Modules must, of course, also be connected electrically. The electrical connection
makes use of a 60 inch 8-wire harness with a male connector at one end and
a female connector at the other. This is cut in half, and each of the wire ends
connected to one side of an 8-position terminal strip, located on the underside
of the module between the two mainlines and in the center left to right. Though
not essential, spade terminals were used in the photo below and make a very
Position from front Wire Color Electrical Designation
edge of module
Top - 1 Red Outside track (front)
2 Green Accessory voltage
3 Gray Earth ground
4 Brown Accessory voltage
5 Black Common for all
6 Blue Accessory voltage
7 Yellow Optional third track
8 White Second inside track
clean connection. They can be sourced from most hardware stores. As with the
rotolocks, the harness is positioned so that when the module is in its upright
position, the male end is at the right side. Connections from the track to the
terminal strip can be made using the wire supplied with the 6-12016 FasTrack
Terminal Section or the 6-12053 Lionel accessory power wire.
The photo on page 9 shows a view of the underside of a wired straight module.
Each of the wires on the harness is a different color and the following table indi-
cates the correct order of wires as the harness is viewed from the underside as
in the photo. Notice also the holes drilled into the top, under the two track lines
for wires which then connect from the track to the terminal strip. It is best to drill
these holes from the top once you know exactly where the track connections are
to be made.
Power Connections and Legacy Command Control
Once a layout of modules has been assembled, power must be supplied to the
tracks. Transformer power is connected to one of the the 8-position terminal strips.
A corner modules is probably the most convenient. On the initial layout built by
TW Trainworx, a separate table measuring 30 inches wide by 24 inches deep, was
constructed for the transformers. This table was 24 inches tall and was located on
the inside of one of the narrow reversible corner modules. When planning on cre-
ating a control station, this footprint is suggested. This table size worked well and
fit nicely into the table plan.
Mike Reagan, Lionel’s director of Customer Service will be supplementing this

manual with a video providing additional information regarding power distribution
and implementation of Lionel’s Legacy Command Control. Mike’s video will be
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added to the many already posted at www.Lionel.com and YouTube.
A corner module is probably the most convenient, but any module can be used.
Depending on the size of the assembled layout, more than one transformer may
be necessary - one for each track line for example. Separate transformers may
also be used to power the accessory line. The module system has been designed
with Lionel’s Legacy Command Control system in mind. The 180 watt PowerHouse
can be used for one of the lines designated as a Legacy line or one for each of the
lines if the assembled layout is designated as Legacy only.
Electrical Tests
Once a module is completed, we strongly recommend that it be tested with

a continuity tester or a simple ohm meter. One bad track joint, or one wire
incorrectly connected would result in failure when connected with other modules.
A demonstration of each of the following tests can be viewed on the video. We
recommend the following tests:
• On the wiring harness, touch one meter lead to each pin on the male side
while the other meter lead touches the corresponding socket hole on the
female side, i.e. red to red, white to white etc. Test each color individually
to be sure you have continuity from one end of the harness to the other.
For example the pin connected to the red wire should show continuity with
only the socket of the same color on the opposite end of the harness. Each
pin should only have continuity with its matching color.
• On top of the module, check that each rail has continuity from from one
end of the module to the other by placing a lead at each end of the same
rail - you should have contunuity.
• Next test continuity from each of the center rails to each of the 8 pins on
the male end of the harness. You should show continuity on only one pin
and that pin color should match the above table, i.e. outside track center
rail shows continuity only with red wire. All other pins must show no
continuity.
• Finally test each of the outside rails with one meter lead connected to
the black wire. With the other lead touch each of the rails, one at a time.
There should be continuity with all ouytside rails, but not with any of the
center rails.
Sources
8 Wire Harness - 60 inches long
Del City Part #74825 - delcity.com
8 position terminal strip

Del City - Part #70018
Leveler Mount
McMaster Carr - Part #23015T82 - mcmaster.com
Rev 2.0 12/12/12
Page 12
Threaded insert
McMaster Carr - Part #90267A697
Rotolock
Mutual Hardware - Part #H2001 - mutualhardware.com
In Conclusion
A video demonstrating the construction and electrical testing of a module from

the kit can be viewed at www.Lionel.com. Watch also for Mike Reagan’s video on
Power Distribution and Legacy Command Control.
Members will be kept up to date with frequent updates to this site. Also planned
are some illustrations of several different layout designs using the modules. Our
hope is that you’ll find this new way to become involved in the hobby exciting.
Watch for special Lionel and LCCA events where module owners can assemble
their units into a large layout. All modules to be used in a sponsored run are to be
certified compatible with the published standards. There will be a compatibility test
requirement before a module is placed in service.
Our hope is that you become involved with the Lionel FasTrack Modular Railroad
and find great enjoyment putting together a large layout and running your trains
at a Lionel or LCCA event.
Credits
These specifications and the design of the Lionel FasTrack Modular Railroad are
the result of a joint effort between Lionel L.L.C. (www.Lionel.com) and the Lionel
Collectors Club of America (www.Lionelcollectors.org). A special thanks goes to all
of the committee members for their work in completing this task. I would also like
to thank Lionel President Jerry Calabrese, LCCA President, Dennis DeVito and the
LCCA Board of Directors for approving this project.
Final design details and drawings were by TW TrainWorx.

Template design and additional drawings by Wellington Enterprises
Respectfully submitted,
Bill Schmeelk - Committee Chairman
Committee Members
Ed Boyle (LCCA)
Roger Farkash (LCCA)
Joe Fea (Lionel L.L.C.)
Larry Franzen (LCCA)
Mike Reagan (Lionel L.L.C.)
Gary Richman (Lionel L.L.C.)
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Lionel
Modular Railroad
Drawing Package
Ver 2.0
Straight Module Dimensions
Sheet 1
Lionel FasTrack Modular Railroad Rev 2.0 12/12/12
Straight Module Assembly
Sheet 2
NOTES:
1. Miter angle on each of the three pieces

along the outside edge is 11 1/2 degrees.
2. Miter angle on each of the two inside pieces

is 22 1/2 degrees.
Full Corner Module

Dimensions
Sheet 3
Full Corner Module Assembly
Sheet 4
Assembled Modules with Track
Sheet 5
NOTES:
1. Miter angle on each of the three

pieces along the outside edge is
11 1/2 degrees.
2. Miter angle on each of the three

inside pieces is 11 1/2 degrees.
Reversible Corner
Modules Dimensions
Sheet 6
Reversible Corner Module Assembly
Sheet 7
NOTES:
1. Height of bracket is 2 inches and is

formed from 1/4 inch thick steel.
2. Height of wooden 2 x 2 leg is 31 inches.
3. Actual dimension of leg commonly sold

as a 2 x 2 is 1 1/2 x 1 1/2 inches
4. Bottom of leg is drilled with 11/32 inch

drill, 1 inch deep to accept 1/4-20
threaded insert and adjustable leveler.
Steel Leg Bracket
Sheet 8
29 1/4"
2 1/2"
1/2"
FasTrack 3/4"
5/8"
1/2" Plywood Top Cut
to 29 5/8"Square 3 7/16"
30"
O36
28 1/2"
17"
6 1/2"
O48
FasTrack 3/8"
3"
30"
Small Radius Module
Sheet 9
The two outside rails
are rabbeted for the 1/2"
top and are mitered at this corner.
Both are 30" long
This rail is 28 1/2" long

and the male rotolocks
are used here.
Refer to Sheet 1 Straight

Module drawing for typical
location of rotolock
mounting holes
1/2" Plywood top

measures 29 5/8" square
Small Radius Module

Underside view
This rail is 29 1/4" long

and the female rotolocks
are used here.
Sheet 10
Left Side of Module Right Side of Module
For drilling holes on the left side of For drilling holes on the right side of
the module as you face the front, the module as you face the front,
use the template with the Lionel “L” use the template with the Lionel “L”
side facing up. side facing down against the table.
To assemble the template, place one

of the 2 inch dowels into each of the
four holes along the edge of the
front and left side. Hammer the
dowel in place so that it extends
above the template on each side
about 7/8 inch. Module Template
Front of Module
(long side nearest the track)
Sheet 11
Module Template
Left Side of Module Right Side of Module
Use only these two holes at Use these two holes at top
top and bottom of template to and bottom of template to
drill for female (smaller) drill for male (larger) portion
portion of rotolock. of rotolock.
Use only a 1/4 inch drill for all
drilling through the template
Use this hole at top and bot-

tom of template to drill for
rotolock wrench. After drilling
with template, enlarge the
hole on the module to 7/16
inch. Once the rotolock is
mounted to table, this hole is
used with the rotolock wrench
to operate the rotolock.
Front of Module
Sheet 12
Lionel FasTrack Modular Railroad Rev 10 8/25/12
Lionel
Modular Railroad
Track and Module Layout Plans
Planning Your Layout
The following pages illustrate several examples of how modules might be
combined to make a layout. Depending on the available space, each of them can
be modified with the addition or removal of straight modules.
The 45 degree and reversible corners allow the modules componants to be

arranged in many creative configurations. Just a few ideas follow to stimulate your
thinking.
The basic guidelines of configuration are:
1. Maintain the 45 degree corner modules in pairs so that each corner is 90

degrees or 180 degrees.
2. Any number of straights can be added between 90 degree corners - BUT

GENRERALLY NOT BETWEEN INDIVIDUAL 45 degree modules. So, for
examples, an L and a U are illustrated in sheets 16 and 17. The straight
runs can be extended to any length and can be asymetrical - for example,
one arm of the U could be much longer than the other. Using the alphabet
as the base template it would be easy to create layouts that are variations
on E, F, H, T, even V and W with 90 degree angles.
3. The exception to guideline #2: Two 45 degree modules of a 90 degree

cornercan be separated by straight sections if symmetry is maintained.
The Dog Bone and Modified Oval plans, seen in Sheets 18 and 19, are
examples. These two plans are similar and use the same end configurations.
4. A linked pair of one inside and one outside curve can be matched to a
second pair to keep the geometry in balance. The Off Center Dog Bone on
Sheet 20 illustrates this configuration principle.
We will be anxious to see your layout ideas and refine these layout guidelines.
Adding Switches
Sheets 13, 14 and 15 illustrate how O72 switches can be incorporated into track
plans for straight modules. The O72 switches can be combined between two
track lines and maintain the 6 inch centers established for the FasTrack Modular
Railroad. Some of these track combinations require a number of smaller sections.
The more track sections within a module, the more chance there is for a loss of
power between track joints. For this reason, it is recommended that additional
drops from the the track to the power connections under the module be made.
This will ensure that power is not lost.
Another alternative is to replace several of the small sections of FasTrack with a

custom cut length of FasTrack. The additional work to custom cut a track section
Rev 2.0 12/12/12
will eliminate the number of joints and reduce the number of track sections
needed. For example, the track plan shown on sheet 14 incorporating two
switches, requires 12 sections of FasTrack. If three custom cut sections are used,
the total number of sections needed is reduced to six. The appendix includes
detailed instructions on how to go about making custom FasTrack sections.
For Lionel/LCCA events it is preferred that no switches be used in the outer loop of
track.
Also included in the Appendix is a handy reference chart showing how sections of
FasTrack can be combined to achieve specific lengths.
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Track Plan for a Siding to a Third Line
5" Str. 1 3/8" Str. 4 1/2" Str.
O72 Curve
O72 Switch with 2

supplied short sections
in place
2 Sections
10" Str. 1 3/8" Str. 1 3/4" Str. 5" Str. 4 1/2" Str.
NOTES:
1. This arrangement is designed to be used between the second (inner) line and a third line.
2. A mirror image of this arrangement using Right hand switches can be used to
complete a passing siding on another module.
3. This arrangement requires 9 sections of straight track. Due to the increased number of track
joints, it is recommended that additional drops from the track to power bemade.
4. The number of straight sections can be reduced to 5 if 2 of them are custom cut as follows:
The curved portion would require a custom cut straight 6 3/16" long.
The straight portion would require a custom cut straight 9 11/32" long.
See Appendix for instructions on cutting custom lengths of FasTrack.
Sheet 13
Adding O72 Switches to Lines 1 and 2
5" 1 3/8" 1 3/4" 10" 15 5/8" 1 3/4" 4 1/2"
O72 Left Hand Switch

with two extensions in place
O72 Left Hand Switch

with curve extension removed
5" 15 5/8" 10" 1 3/8" 2 1 3/4" 4 1/2"
Notes:
1. This arrangement is designed primarily to connect the two outside lines, lines 1 and 2.
2. Note that the 1 3/8" extension to the curve on one of the switches has been removed to maintain the
6 inch spacing betweeen the two lines. All other extension pieces, one on each straight and one on a
curve, remain in place.
3. Ideally, this same arrangement would be duplicated on another module using right hand switches.
This would allow trains to change from one line to the other and back again. With only one such
module, a train would have to reverse to return to its original line.
4. Due to the number of track joints in this arrangement, it is recommended that additional drops from
the track to power be made.
5. By cutting custom track sections the total number of sections can be reduced - See Appendix for
instructions on how to do this.
Sheet 14
Module Plan with Switches
Notes:
Although the above plan illustrates the use of the Small Radius Module, the straight module plans shown
could also be used with the larger radius corners. See Sheets 13 and 14 for exact track plans for each of the
straight modules.
The two modules that each contain two switches between the outer two lines can also be separated.
For example one might be on the opposite side of the layout. Having both of them allows a train on either line
and operating in either direction to travel from one line to the other and back again.
If desired, straight modules can be added between the corner modules to increase the width of the layout. A
straight module between two Small Radius Modules measures 105 inches. Substituing the larger radius cor-
ners would result in a layout width of just over 103 inches.
Sheet 15
“L” Shape Module Plan
Notes:
The Reversible Corner makes possible an “L” shape layout.
This “L” shape layout can be resized by removing or adding an

equal number of straight modules on both sides of either leg.
The minimum number of modules required for an “L” shape layout

is two Reversible Corners, ten Full Corners and four Straight Mod-
ules. The smallest dimension possible using this minimum number
is about 20 1/2 x 16 feet.
The width of each leg is slightly over 8 feet 7 inches.
Full size dimension of the “L” shape layout as shown is about 35 x

27 1/2 feet.
Sheet 16
“U” Shape Module Plan
Sheet 17
Modified Oval Layout
Sheet 18
Dog Bone Layout
Sheet 19
Off Center Dog Bone Module Plan
Notes:
Minimun requirements for smallest size would be 2 Reversible Corners,

and 10 Full Corners. In the above illustration four Straight Modules
were added to each side.
In its minimum configuration (no Straight Modules) this layout would

require about 14 x 11 feet.
As illustrated above, this layout would require about 29 x 11 feet.
Sheet 20
Lionel
Modular Railroad
Appendix
cutting metal, and I substituted a hacksaw with a 32-teeth-
per-inch blade.
Lionel News & Views
by Bill Schmeelk
HM 6643
New FasTrack Section – To Cut or Not To Cut
In the previous issue of TLR, we published a chart
of track lengths that could be assembled using different
combinations of FasTrackTM lengths. Although the addition
of the 1-3/8-inch track section more than doubled the
possible lengths that can be assembled, there are times when 1
there might be a better answer. For instance, let’s say you
just finished assembling your layout and to complete it, Photo 1 shows the setup as the sawing proceeds. You
you find that you need an 8-¼-inch section. Great – refer to must hold the track firmly while sawing. Once you get
the chart for 8-¼, and you’ll find that such a section can be through the metal rails, the cutting will go quickly. After the
made by connecting six 1-3/8-inch sections. While making first cut was made, I positioned the two pieces as shown in
a section of that length is possible, an 8-¼-inch section
with six joints is not the most efficient method, nor is it
economical. 2
In this case, the best answer is to custom cut a special
section. As we discussed last issue, cutting FasTrack is a
bit more complicated than cutting tubular track. You can’t
simply cut a piece off the end. If you did that, the section
would not mate with any other FasTrack section, with the
possible exception of the O-gauge transition piece. There
is a better way; simply cut a section out of the middle of a
track section. Before attempting to explain the procedure,
I tried it myself and what follows is a complete description
with photos on what I feel is the best method to make custom
lengths of FasTrack.
Let the Cutting Begin photo 2 and set them so that the measurement from the end
For our example, let’s assume I need a section that is 8- of the cut piece to the end of the remaining piece was my
¼ inches long. If the section you want is less than 10 inches, desired track length – in this case, 8-¼ inches. I then marked
it will only require one standard section of FasTrack. We the larger section at the point where the smaller section
want to remove a section from the middle and reassemble ended. This is where the second cut must be made on the
the track. That leaves us with a section that retains the two larger piece. This is cut in the same manner as before, using
original ends and can easily be connected to other sections the miter box.
of FasTrack. The first decision is exactly where the first cut
will be made. If you look at the underside of a section of
FasTrack, you’ll notice the bent metal tabs which secure the 3
rails to the plastic roadbed. When the track is cut, you want
to leave as many of these remaining in place as possible.
You also want to avoid cutting the track over the metal plate
which connects the two outer rails. If need be, this plate can
be removed before cutting. Subtracting the length we want
(8-¼ inches) from the full length of 10 inches, we get a
length of 1-¾ inches to be cut away from the middle of the
track in order to preserve the two ends of the track. Photo 3 shows the result. The very short middle piece
can be discarded. Next I used a sanding block with 120 grit
Cutting the track square is very important. For that sandpaper and carefully smoothed the cut edges. Be careful
reason, a miter box is a very efficient method. I purchased not to sand it too much; all you want to do is remove the saw
an inexpensive plastic one at a home improvement store. marks and leave a smooth, square edge for gluing. It takes
One feature that I liked was that its front side had a lip which very little sanding to achieve this. If you sand too much, you
overhangs the table and holds the miter box in position as may lose the squareness of each piece and they will not mate
you cut on the forward stroke of the saw. Typically, a back perfectly. Photo 4 shows the two cut edges after sanding.
saw is used with a miter box. This is not acceptable for
The Lion Roars December, 2007

24
on the section without the pins. Place both sections on a flat
4 surface and push them together and hold them tightly for
about 10 seconds. Although many of these glues are called
instant, their full strength is not developed for up to 24
hours. We’re almost finished, but there is one more important
step.
One Last Step
To assure the best conductivity, the rails of each section
of the new piece should be soldered together. I usually prefer
stranded wire, but in this case, the joint will not be moving
and solid wire is quite suitable. I used 18-gauge copper wire.
Photo 7 shows the completed soldering. In this particular
case, I soldered to the connecting plate. Depending on the
The next step is to drill into each of the rails at the cut
end of each piece. This is done with a 7/64 inch drill as 7
shown in photo 5. The drilling is necessary because there are
plastic supports spaced at about ¼-inch intervals under each
length you are making, this plate may not be there. Simply
solder from the metal tabs of one rail to the tabs of the
same rail on the other section. Do this with all three rails.
Notice that in my example, I had to bring the center rail
wire across the plate which connects the two outer rails. It
rail. These can be seen if you look at the small section to the is very important that this center rail wire does not make
left of the track being drilled in photo 5. Drill to a depth of contact with this plate as that would result in a short circuit. I
at least one half the length of an O-gauge track pin. Be sure assumed that I would have no problem as the wire insulation
to keep the drill against the inside top of the rail and support would keep any contact from occurring. I discovered
the rail from above with your finger. however, when I soldered the wire, that the insulation
shrunk and bare wire came very close – too close – to the
6 plate. I then removed the center wire and placed a piece of
electricians tape over the plate. If I had it to do over again,
I might simply remove the plate or at least loop the center
Now place a standard O-gauge track pin into each rail

of one of the sections as seen in photo 6. You can now
press the two sections together for a test fit. If you’ve been
careful, the rail tops and the roadbed will line up properly.
For the glue to hold properly, the joint of the two sections
of roadbed should touch without any gaps. Next, separate wire so that it approaches the connection from the opposite
the two sections and place the pins in one section. Sparingly side. Photo 8 shows the completed section along with a
apply SuperglueTM (cyanoacrylate) to the edge of the roadbed standard 10-inch piece for comparison.
The Lion Roars December, 2007

25
Lionel Fastrack Size Table
Length 1 3/8 1 3/4 4 1/2 5 10 Pieces
1 3/8 1 1
1 3/4 1 1
2 3/4 2 2
3 1/8 1 1 2
3 1/2 2 2
4 1/8 3 3
4 1/2 1 1
4 7/8 1 2 3
5 1 1
5 1/4 3 3
5 1/2 4 4
5 7/8 1 1 2
6 1/4 1 1 2
6 3/8 1 1 2
6 5/8 1 3 4
6 3/4 1 1 2
6 7/8 5 5
7 4 4
7 1/4 2 1 3
7 5/8 1 1 1 3
7 3/4 2 1 3
8 2 1 3
8 1/8 1 1 1 3
8 1/4 6 6
8 3/8 1 4 5
8 1/2 2 1 3
8 5/8 3 1 4
8 3/4 5 5
9 2 2
9 1/8 3 1 4
9 3/8 1 2 1 4
9 1/2 1 1 2
9 5/8 7 7
9 3/4 3 1 4
9 7/8 1 2 1 4
10 1 1
10 1/8 1 5 6
10 1/4 3 1 4
10 3/8 1 2 3
10 1/2 4 1 5
10 3/4 1 2 3
10 7/8 1 1 1 3
11 8 8
11 1/8 1 3 1 5
11 1/4 1 1 1 3
11 3/8 1 1 2
11 1/2 4 1 5
11 5/8 1 3 1 5
11 3/4 1 1 2
11 7/8 5 1 6
12 4 1 5
12 1/8 1 1 2 4
12 1/4 2 1 1 4
12 3/8 9 9
12 1/2 2 2 4
12 5/8 1 1 1 1 4
12 3/4 2 1 3
12 7/8 1 4 1 6
13 2 1 1 4
13 1/8 1 1 1 3
13 1/4 5 1 6
13 3/8 1 4 1 6
13 1/2 3 3
13 1/2 2 1 3
13 5/8 3 1 1 5
13 3/4 5 1 6
13 7/8 1 2 2 5
14 2 1 3
14 1/8 3 1 4
14 1/4 3 2 5
14 3/8 1 2 1 1 5
14 1/2 1 1 2
14 5/8 1 5 1 7
14 3/4 3 1 1 5
14 7/8 1 3 4
14 7/8 1 2 1 4
15 1 1 2
15 1/8 1 5 1 7
15 1/4 1 3 4
15 1/4 3 1 4
15 3/8 1 2 1 4
15 1/2 4 1 5
15 5/8 1 3 2 6
15 3/4 1 2 1 4
15 7/8 1 1 1 3
16 4 2 6
16 1/8 1 3 1 1 6
16 1/4 1 1 1 3
16 3/8 1 1 1 3
16 1/2 4 1 1 6
16 5/8 1 1 3 5
16 5/8 1 3 1 5
16 3/4 1 1 1 3
16 7/8 5 1 6
17 4 1 4
17 1/8 1 1 2 1 5
17 1/4 2 1 1 4
17 3/8 1 4 2 7
17 1/2 2 2 1 5
17 5/8 1 1 1 1 4
17 3/4 2 1 1 4
17 7/8 1 4 1 1 7
18 4 4
18 2 1 1 4
18 1/8 1 1 1 1 4
18 1/4 5 1 1 7
18 1/4 6 1 7
18 3/8 1 2 3 6
18 3/8 1 4 1 6
18 1/2 3 1 4
18 1/2 2 1 1 4
18 5/8 3 1 1 5
18 3/4 3 3 6
18 3/4 5 1 6
18 7/8 1 2 2 1 6
19 2 1 3
19 1/8 3 1 1 5
19 1/4 3 2 1 6
19 3/8 1 4 5
19 3/8 1 2 1 1 5
19 1/2 1 1 1 3
19 5/8 1 5 1 1 8
19 5/8 7 1 8
19 3/4 1 4 5
19 3/4 3 1 1 5
19 7/8 1 3 1 5
19 7/8 1 2 1 1 5
20 2 2

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Lionel

Those interested in participating in the Lionel FasTrack Modular Railroad system

Rev 2.0 12/12/12

• Fully assembled modules in a variety of styles from bare tables to fully

Sheet 1 illustrates a top view of the straight module

Rev 2.0 12/12/12

2 Pine framing 45 inches x 3 inches x 3/4 inch thick., rabbeted as

Rev 2.0 12/12/12

Rev 2.0 12/12/12

Rev 2.0 12/12/12

Rev 2.0 12/12/12

Rotolock and Track Placement

An important aspect of any modular system is the ability to join adjacent

Rev 2.0 12/12/12

Fastrack Modular Railroad Template

Rev 2.0 12/12/12

Assembling a Reversible Corner

The reversible corner module can be assembled as either an inside or an outside

In order to ensure compatibility between modules, there are some strict

Rev 2.0 12/12/12

New Small Radius Corner

Rev 2.0 12/12/12

Power Connections and Legacy Command Control

Mike Reagan, Lionel’s director of Customer Service will be supplementing this

Rev 2.0 12/12/12

Once a module is completed, we strongly recommend that it be tested with

8 position terminal strip

A video demonstrating the construction and electrical testing of a module from

Final design details and drawings were by TW TrainWorx.

Rev 2.0 12/12/12

1. Miter angle on each of the three pieces

2. Miter angle on each of the two inside pieces

Full Corner Module

1. Miter angle on each of the three

2. Miter angle on each of the three

1. Height of bracket is 2 inches and is

2. Height of wooden 2 x 2 leg is 31 inches.

3. Actual dimension of leg commonly sold

4. Bottom of leg is drilled with 11/32 inch

Steel Leg Bracket

This rail is 28 1/2" long

Refer to Sheet 1 Straight

1/2" Plywood top

Small Radius Module

This rail is 29 1/4" long

To assemble the template, place one

Use this hole at top and bot-

The 45 degree and reversible corners allow the modules componants to be

The basic guidelines of configuration are:

1. Maintain the 45 degree corner modules in pairs so that each corner is 90

2. Any number of straights can be added between 90 degree corners - BUT

3. The exception to guideline #2: Two 45 degree modules of a 90 degree

Another alternative is to replace several of the small sections of FasTrack with a

Rev 2.0 12/12/12

5" Str. 1 3/8" Str. 4 1/2" Str.

O72 Switch with 2

5" 1 3/8" 1 3/4" 10" 15 5/8" 1 3/4" 4 1/2"

O72 Left Hand Switch

O72 Left Hand Switch

5" 15 5/8" 10" 1 3/8" 2 1 3/4" 4 1/2"