Disappearing Layout Question

Hi Mike,

As usual, our forum display layout expert, Jagrick, may be able to help. I know he built this one and posted pictures here. He hasn't been around lately so maybe others will weigh in.

If you use the  forum search function you will see several posts on this layout.

@johnstrains posted:

Hi Mike,

As usual, our forum display layout expert, Jagrick may be able to help. I know he built this one and posted pictures here. He hasn't been around lately so maybe others will weigh in.

@Jagrick

I’m still here just been a little busy. I can help you with the disappearing layout if you’d like. Getting display set up in new building

I can get you detailed photos and measurements

Video

Video

I don't think I'll ever stop grinning when watching this iconic layout in action!  I remember seeing it as a kid of around 6 years old, and now as a kid of 76!  In fact, it's an instant mood-changer! 

The barrels in the gondolas actually are a requirement to help the train work a little bit better. Also it’s a balance between how many gondolas you can pull and I think that magnetic traction is failing overtime and so the number has gone down from the original 12 I believe

Details

Thanks so much for the detailed photos Rick. I am going to send you an email to get a bit more information from you on this layout. Thank you to everyone that took the time to respond!! This group is amazing!!

Wouldn't it be better to flip the direction of travel for the train? So that it shoots down the stupidly steep ramp and then has a more gradual incline?

The disappearing train layout is pretty special, what a great effect.  I've always like that one.

@BurkusCircus52 posted:

Wouldn't it be better to flip the direction of travel for the train? So that it shoots down the stupidly steep ramp and then has a more gradual incline?

My guess is that if you gave it enough juice to go up the more gradual incline, it would go too fast down the steeper incline and derail.

There are actually three different sections of the track each with a different voltage tuned for speed. The fourth circuit is for the accessories. That is why you need a ZW transformer for this

jagrick did you get my email with questions for this build? Thanks!

@Mike Espy posted:

jagrick did you get my email with questions for this build? Thanks!

I did not see your e mail resend please

@BurkusCircus52 posted:

Wouldn't it be better to flip the direction of travel for the train? So that it shoots down the stupidly steep ramp and then has a more gradual incline?

I’m sure they ran all the permutations but their primary goal was to show the gripping affect of magnetraction. Once the transformer is set up you shut it off with a  SPST switch that de-energizes one section. This is done so you don’t have to “ re-tune” the throttle position each time.

The switch

Has anyone else out there built this layout or has one that could grab me a few quick measurements?

Thanks in advance to anyone that can help!!