Currently I have a basic oval with two spur sidings going into the oval but I want something new. It's a 4x10 that's as big as I can go with the space I have. Using SCARM I've made some designs but I want other ideas. The track is also Fastrak.
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Here is my 4 x 10 layout. 0-42 outside and 0-31 inside loop. lots of sidings
Hi Trainguy,
Larry went through 3 or 4 iterations to finally arrive at a plan that provided interest.
FasTrack is limiting on a 48" wide table. You can't fit 048 on it. 031 is not an exact "inside" of 036 curve.
What I have designed and seen on the forum for a table of your size has been based around existing accessories or switching to create some operational interest.
I like a depressed figure 8 worked into the plan. It doesn't have the appearance of the typical figure 8, but provides multiple routes and the ability to change directions. Add a siding or two. Then perhaps consider an elevated section. I'll post a SCARM of the depressed figure 8.
So, think 036 outer, 031 inner, but not symmetrical due to fitment.
if you think that you have a base plan that you like, attach the file and I'll see what I can add.
Which streamliners do you have? 12" or longer?
here's one 4 x 8 plan that I designed, I called it Elevated 8. I had the climb on the front, which was dumb, so I took a back view of the 3D. It looks better built that way. So, the top of the track plan would be the front.
Right-click on the .scarm attachment, select "save target as" and drop it somewhere that you can find it or just select "open" after it lands and it will open in SCARM. Select the 3D button and check out some different views.
Perhaps this will provoke some ideas for you.
Ok, I found the Depressed Figure 8. It's on a 4 x 9. So, you have room for a siding on the end with a 4 x 10 and some in the middle and maybe a long one on the side. Fool around with this one.
I'm not sure if I want elevation due to the setting I want. I like this depressed figure eight layout. My superliners are 17".
Ok, you can fit some 048 on a 4' table. The outside oval will help the look of the streamliners. 048 7.5, 048 15, 048 30 048 30, 036 22.5, then reverse. The minimum radius is still 036, but only for about 7"
You can try and make an 8 in the center with 048 switches. Just delete the center layout a clear it out.
The track roadbeds are very close to touching to consider leaving it. Might have to mock-up a corner to see if it fits.
I have to leave, but here's the file. It's on a 4 x 10.
I want to point out one concern that you may already know. On an 036 curve, 2/3 to all of the body of the passenger car will hang over on the inside. That depends on the center point of the truck.
On 048, it will be more like 1/3 to 2/3. here is an illustration using a 2" x 17" rectangle.
Yea I tested my superliners over the o-36 and it had a lot of hangover. Again due to my limited space it's my only option to go with o-36. I don't even think if I put o-31 it would make the turn. Also with my buildings I want enough space to create a swamp so I don't want to overcrowd the entire layout with track.
Just for ha-ha's I built this 048 depressed cross. it takes 4' x 11'. Only 2 036 curves, center of each end.
A switch off the cross only gets you a spur of 45". ~ 2.5 superliner cars. Curving it with 036 would get a longer one.
If you don't have eleven feet for length, then 036 it is.
I would opt out on the sidings unless it would be an engine shed. No real room in 10' or 11' to park superliners.
Well the room I am using is 11 feet. I was going to do a 10 fout table to have a half of foot on each side but I may just go with a 11 foot table. I really like this design here.
Ok,
here's the file. I also attached the LCCA Modular specs. In the appendix is a how to on making custom sized tracks. You can eliminate a lot of the small fitter by cutting 4.5, 5 & 10" pieces to make a custom length. After the first one, they turn out well.
I also attached the FasTrack lengths to assist in fitting gaps when planning a design. It has mostly all of the possible combinations for lengths that you can make.
Well the room I am using is 11 feet. I was going to do a 10 fout table to have a half of foot on each side but I may just go with a 11 foot table. I really like this design here.
A 4 ft. reach isn't too bad to get to the back & back corners. Perhaps a small stool to stand on.
Which roadname are you running? The streamliners look nice. Some members have made some lighting and people mods.
here's the placement of the custom cuts with size annotated. Also, the 2 parts lists(inventory) for comparison. You reduce the tracks needed from 58 to 37 by cutting 6-10" pieces. Quite a savings.
They are the new MTH Amtrak superliners. I can't wait to run them!
Plus I like having the 4foot table because I have manual switches so I can just flip them if needed.
One member posted a sneak photo of some of the real item last summer while they were being readied for service. They do look nice.
I think the track design will provide an interesting place to let the liners stretch out in your space.
Post a video or some photos when you get them running.
I have some pictures posted of them now I need to wait 2 months until the engine comes out.
I was talking about seeing them moving on the new layout. I looked at your post. They are nice. Pull them with anything while your waiting.
Too nice to sit in the box.
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