I recently built a new layout with a staging / interchange yard. I would like to be able to take cars on and off the layout but I am trying to figure out where to store the cars off the layout so that they would be easy to access. I considered shelving over the layout but that would be hard to reach. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Here’s a couple of pics of the new layout.
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I am going through a similar process and am considering a lower level, something around a foot below the top of the layout. You still have to bend over, but it is usable space.
Jerry
If you can't reach the wall easily straight in and then upwards is harder yet to reach, it's not viable for shelving; use it for a backdrop and scenery.
Under the layout pull out drawers that can be pulled out as a unit to access the underside of the layout is an option.
How about shelving that is under the layout along the front between those legs instead of some sort of curtain or skirt? Then you could just reach down grab the cars and put them on the track?
I was thinking about getting some utility carts with wheels to store the cars on under the layout but they aren’t cheap
@OG3RAIL posted:I was thinking about getting some utility carts with wheels to store the cars on under the layout but they aren’t cheap
Judging by your layout construction you look to be a good carpenter...pick up some casters at the hardware store and build your own carts!
I made train drawers to store cars under the staging area.
@Lehigh74 Wow, you are a true craftsman! I wish I had half of your skills with wood! Those are super nice cabinets!
@Hudson J1e posted:@Lehigh74 Wow, you are a true craftsman! I wish I had half of your skills with wood! Those are super nice cabinets!
Thanks, but all you need is the right tools (table saw, router) and access to New Yankee Workshop videos.
Drawers are a really good storage method. Easy access and you can store a lot in a little space.
And you don’t need to make them fancy, although it’s more fun. Here’s a few where I just attached the drawer rails to existing structure. I made the drawer sides from 5/8 plywood with butt joints (glued and tacked) and used ¼” plywood for the drawer bottoms (glued and tacked to the sides).
@Lehigh74 posted:Thanks, but all you need is the right tools (table saw, router) and access to New Yankee Workshop videos.
Drawers are a really good storage method. Easy access and you can store a lot in a little space.
Sure Bob, but you skipped an important part of the picture! You also need to skill to use those tools, and you don't get that just from watching a video! 
@OG3RAIL posted:I was thinking about getting some utility carts with wheels to store the cars on under the layout but they aren’t cheap
Since I ran out of wall space, I built some shelves that are attached to the legs of my layout. I also use utility carts that are available from Menards, Harbor Freight, etc. It wasn't particularly difficult to add an extra shelf to the two-shelf variety of cart. They are very stable.
Good thought never thought of looking there I was checking out U-Line
I built my car storage shelves to fit under the layout. They are built with hinges on one end allowing them to open to the storage area below the layout. one set has three sets of shelves attached one in front of the other and open like a book.
I love the idea of the shelves under the layout, but Harry has those. Unless you're careful opening them, you can dump stuff on the floor, I've seen it happen. I think I'd want a security rod or line of some kind to keep them on the shelves.
This is what I did I have two of these carts. Added extra shelves to inexpensive Harbor Freight Parts Carts lined with padded shelve liner.
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