How to Build HO Scale

Design the layout of your model train set. HO scale allows for very complicated layout designs as the small scale lets you build multi-layered train tables easily. Use graph paper to set up your design with a scale of two inches to one foot of actual train table. After plotting the track layout, take another piece of graph paper and design the scenery elements and terrain of your setup Use a third sheet to lay out the electrical system, showing the placement of all the wired elements of your design.

Take the track layout to the area where you intend to set up your train and lay the actual track on the floor to make sure the design works in the space provided. For multi-layered layouts you only need to place the bottom layer of track.

Purchase or build a table to act as the base for your train set. If you build your own train table, a single-layered HO set can be placed onto a platform constructed of 3/4-inch plywood. For multi-layered train sets, you will need to use 1-inch plywood reinforced by cross bracing. You can purchase a train table at larger hobby shops, or modify existing tables created with softwoods, as hardwoods are difficult to drill through for the many holes you'll need for wiring.

Glue two foam boards layered together to the top of your train table to act as the sub-roadbed. The sub-roadbed allows you to create depressions in the scenery to place sub-layer scenery elements such as streams or ditches. Cut holes into the forms to make sub-layered elements.

Glue the track to your board in the designed layout using a diluted solution of 25 percent Elmer's glue. HO track comes in traditional straight or curved tracks, but this limits the implementation of your layout. For a more customized setup, use flex track, which can be curved and cut with a Dremel tool according to your needs. For multi-level layouts you need to install the platforms for your higher levels when installing the track. For curves at HO scale make sure you have a radius of a minimum of 22 inches. For parallel track placements, allow for clearance between tracks for passing trains.

Lay your wiring onto the board. Drill several centrally located holes in the train table and lay the wires from where they're needed to the holes. Drag the wires through the holes to run under the table. To lay wires, gouge small channels in the surface of the sub-board and run the wires through them to the holes. Cover the channels with electrical tape. Use different colors for your positive and negative wires to avoid connection mistakes. Make sure all the wires are long enough to reach your train remote area.

Put together all the scale models for your layout and paint them. Seal the models with a layer of clear coat for protection.

Mount the scenery to your board working from the ground up using model railroad terrain. Connect any wiring necessary for the scenery elements. Make sure you get the HO terrain for the more realistic scaled objects.

Wire up the remote switch and then mount the train for running your HO set.