the switchback at the end of tunnel C(branch line i assume) could possibly do with a loop. otherwise you'll be pushing your train back down the line.

and two the ladder at the roundhouse end of the line . change that turnout so its running up beside the round house. this will give you more room then having the ladder on the secondary line of the rail yard?

or do you have a radius restriction there?

But...it seems like there is quite a bit of hidden trackage in your plan.  It looks like trains will disappear fairly often and for some longer stretches.  Do you have access to all the hidden track?

I wonder about the helix and minimum 24" radius.  How many turns in the helix?  How steep a grade on the helix?  Be aware that a tight radius will increase drag on the grade in the helix making the grade more difficult to climb.

Again, I am no expert.  Just trying to apply some of the things I have learned from the real experts on this forum to your plan.

 Kevin,

Thanks for the reply.  The radius on the helix is 29.75" & 30" and is located in an adjacent room and is 3.5 to 4 turns (16" decline).  As for the hidden track, hidden section A is about 12', section B is about 8' and C (branchline for the switchback is about 8'.

espeekiwi, Good point on the branchline, I'll add a runaround track there to get the engine back in front.  (Maybe even a small turntable to face it forward again too...)

Sorry, I don't follow your yard comment... :(

Thanks,

Ryan

If my calculations are correct the grade through your helix might be just fine.

It seems like lots of hidden track in a samll layout.  I would want to see my trains running a bit more I think, but that's my preference. others will have different goals etc.

 Take a look at the new file, I have substantially reduced the hidden track.

Thanks,

Ryan

Plan 2 does use less hidden track, but a far more important point is a access.  The layout appears to be right against the walls.  That is not a problem if you have plans to allow you to access every inch of hidden track.  I can guarantee that if there is anyplace on your layout that is difficult to reach, that is the place where most of your derailments will occur.  Just ask "Mr Murphy."

I second the reach issue - looks like there are several areas where it will be a long stretch to uncouple, re-rail, or maintain things.  Good reach is a function of your body and the layout's height.  I would suggest mocking up shelves with varying widths at varying heights and see how comfortable or uncomfortable reaching to the back is, and if you (or guest operators) will be crunching scenery/structures in the process.

You also have a couple of switchback industries.  These are not necessarily bad, but switching one industry may require clearing the cars from other industries first.  This can be a puzzle-challenge or a pain in the rear, or both.  I would "game-out" the local or switch job that will serve those industries and make sure those switching moves are what you intend.

Good luck!

Like Russ, I wondered about access too.

You have reduced your hidden track but there is still a fair amount hidden.  Keep in mind that access for derailments and track cleaning have to be provided and as Russ mentions, according to the laws of Mr. Murphy, if you have a problem it will be where you least wanted it to be.

I'm pretty new at this, but it seems like you don't have a switching lead to work your yard near the station.  Will you foul the mainline if you are shunting cars around the yard?

 blue,

Thanks for the continued feedback.  First, I'll address the yard lead.  The inside track by the roundhouse was to double as the yard lead.  I may need to lengthen it a bit...

As for the hidden track, section A, I can cut a hole in the wall and access the track from adjacent room.  Section B, I should have adequate accessibility from under the layout.  Section C, I can put a removable top on it and I was planning on getting a topside creeper.

Thanks,

Ryan

Ryan,

Hey, thanks for being so appreciative of my novice attempts at constructive layout critique.  I'm just learning as I go along and I enjoy watching plans come together on the forum.

It sounds like you have all the angles covered.

Those topside creepers look very useful.  Have you used one before?  I've often thought I should have one. [grin]

Good luck with your layout.  Post some pictures when you can please.