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RI
NN Scale (1:160)Intermediate
Modeling Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad in N Scale
N scale Rock Island captures the midwestern granger railroad. Model the Rockets or grain operations across the plains.
Scale Ratio
1:160
9mm gauge
Space Needed
Compact
Recommended Era
1960s-1970s
Key Equipment
5
Recommended items
Why Model Rock Island in N Scale?
N scale suits Rock Island's midwestern operations. The relatively flat terrain and grain traffic translate well.
Recommended Equipment
Locomotive
GP40
Modern freight power
Locomotive
E8
Passenger diesel
Locomotive
F7
First gen diesel
Freight Car
Covered Hoppers
Grain cars
Freight Car
Boxcars
Rock lettered
Modeling Tips for Rock Island
1
The Rock Island's bankruptcy means equipment was scattered—research prototype locations carefully
2
Red and yellow schemes are eye-catching and photograph well
3
Late-era Rock Island equipment often showed significant deferred maintenance—weather accordingly
4
Many Rock Island GP7s and GP9s were rebuilt with low short hoods
5
The Rock Island shared some routes with Southern Pacific (Golden State Route)
Shop Rock Island N Scale
View AllSuggested Track Plans
All N Plans2x4 ft
2x4 N Scale Starter Layout
Perfect for apartments and small spaces! This compact 2x4 N scale layout packs in a complete railroad with passing siding and industry on a desk-sized footprint.
4x6 ft
4x6 N Scale Branch Line
Capture the charm of a rural branch line on this medium-sized N scale layout. Features a main town, several industries, and point-to-point operation with a staging yard.
2x4 ft (Coffee Table)
N Scale Coffee Table Layout
A stunning display piece that doubles as furniture! This 2x4 coffee table layout features a continuous loop through mountains and a small town, all under glass.