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Input / Help on layout design Dream and design
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New member 14 posts kjchronister New member 14 posts
kjchronister
What do I want?
 
1) Having built and had to tear down 5 layouts in 20 years, and with a career path that means I might move 5 more times in 20 more years, I want a "cut-apart-abable" layout. That means I want benchwork modules that can be kept to maximum 2' width and 8' length such that "dremeling" the track connections and removing some screws would be all it took to break it up and move it. This is critical.
 
2) Operationally, I am much more into running trains than switching. I like to take trains in and out of yards, I like to run peddler freights that may drop off a car or two at industrial sidings, but spending hours spotting cars and assembling trains is not my thing.
 
3) I have a strong fondness for passenger trains of 6'-8' total length, using larger steam motive power (e.g. PRR T-1 4-4-4-4, articulated, etc) that does not do well on tight turns. Min radius for my most constrained (T-1) motive power is 22", but even if it can handle the turn, I don't like it to look 'toyish' nor do I like pushing the limits and risking derailments. So I want 36" mainline radius with #8 turnouts, and 28" with #6 on the rest. I'd like an option to have a yard that passenger trains come in and out of, and at least two stations between which they can make runs.
 
4) In stark contrast, I have a collection of geared locos and log cars and would like a rationale to use thos. I also have a collection of hoppers suitable for coal/gravel/mining and would like a rationale to use those too.
 
5) I have a strong desire for a loco servicing area and a turntable/roundhouse.
 
6) I'm not a stickler for pure prototype operation, but I strongly prefer to have some reversing mechanism (Reverse loop or wye - preferably hidden) where trains can go past a locale, then return later in the other direction, versus round-and-round operations.
 
7) And yet, I very much like to have the option for a couple trains in continuous-loop operation. Particularly while I'm working on the layout. I simply find it calming and comforting to get some trains going and let 'em roll. Also, as a frequent "lone wolf" operater, I enjoy the challenge of setting some trains in continuous motion, the operating other trains in point-to-point operation while "dodging" them.
 
8) I apologize in advance if I'm "overdoing" this... though bear in mind I have a whole pile of info on the history/rationale of my "protolance" history I'm not even sharing! I appreciate all help/input.
 
9) My available space is 14' x 20' but that is not bounded by walls. For reasons I won't belabor, that space must accommodate a "tabletop/island" type layout with min 2' aisles around the edges. So the usable available space is 10' x 16' 
 
10) I've designed several layouts that leveraged grades and/or multiple decks to achieve all I want. But when I consider actually building them... I know in my heard they'd be "build up, rip down" rather than portable. So I place a strong premium on level grade.
 
 
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kjchronister New member 14 posts
kjchronister

PS - DCC

FWIW, I use NCE DCC.
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John Buckley roadglide Frequent poster 568 posts
John Buckley roadglide

Sounds like David Barrow

If I can suggest, go to that other model railroad website and do a search for David Barrow. He has done numerous articles over the years on building his 2'x4' dominos that he can rearrange in almost any configuration he wants. His is strictly level grade and with minimalist scenery. I have tried to use many of his techniques over the years.

John

COO, Johnstown & Maryville RR

 
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dark2star Prolific poster 1,793 posts
dark2star

Have you considered a modular approach?

Hi,

from what I read, you seem to want either a sectional or a modular layout. They don't exclude each other, by the way Should you move to a different room or want to re-arrange your layout, you can exchange a module or two and get a different layout.

Also from what I read, your explanation sounds like an "out and back" operation, with a return loop at one end and a yard/engine facility at the other. I could imagine something in a U shape (top left leg: yard, bottom: running, top right leg: return loop). To make things more interesting, hide a part of the return loop below a hill or behind some buildings and you get a hidden siding (that's what I have). With a lift-out or removable section between the tips of the "U", you'll get continuous running.

Just thinking aloud...

Have fun!
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kjchronister New member 14 posts
kjchronister

Thanks!

Thanks for the input. In the interim I've discovered "trainplayer" which has convinced me the layout I posted with this would not be satisfying for me. Working on a next-gen version, incorporating the feedback given here too!
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Matt Forcum Regular poster 411 posts
Matt Forcum

The figure 8

I'm not a huge fan of the figure 8 in your plan.  It seems unnecessary and looks like it would be more if a pain to build and work around than it would be worth.

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