@BobHastings posted:This is my favorite shelf layout design of all time. Lots of scenic opportunities and the run around track on the lower level allows a lot of switching opportunities in a small space. I built an HO version a long time ago in a one room apartment and stored it in the closet! You came up with a great design! I tried to add a reverse loop by exiting to the left, running hidden around the rear, and then reentering on the right. Since you are limited to short engines and stubby cars, then 027 curves are acceptable. But I don't think there is enough headroom to clear the mid height switchback track.
I've got the Docksider, the Menards Melrose Park station, the single stall engine house, the disconnect cars, the skeleton logging cars, even Beep and a couple of Peeps passenger cars. I'm ready to go!!! ;>
)
Bob
Thanks Bob, it turned out interesting.
Here is how I figure the grades
From the turnout on the left at 0"
- Climb at 6% to the next turnout, 58.5". At 6% the rise is 3.51".
- Climb from the intermediate level through tunnel, to the top level is 74". At 6%, the rise is 4.44"
- The total rise over the switchback is 7.95". Call it 8", or 7.9", either way enough clearance at the double-track tunnel.
The inside tunnel height of the center tunnel on the switchback, needs to be 6" above the track below, which will be about 7" on exiting the tunnel at the left portal. So that would be 13" to the tunnel ceiling, and maybe 16" to the top of the mountain.
I figure a switcher or short loco, can pull and push three cars up the 6% grades easy.
