Re: future layout

c.demilleOGR Forum Member

I just wanted to share my future layout plans and get any suggestions that you all might have. I already have all the items and track shown on this layout. The red track pieces represent operating track sections, while the green track represents the lower level fastrack. The purple track is o-27 scale 42" radius track and it is elevated. The yellow track represents the graduated section of fastrack leading up to the elevated section. The blue line around the edges represents where my table edge will be. As you can see, the middle section is open to stand inside the loop and operate all the accessories. I left openings in the back corners of the layout for access and have a circle hole near the gantry crane for access as well. I will also have a hole underneath the upper level to reach derailed trains in the tunnel area. The main loop is O-72 curves, while the other loop and switches are O-36. The upper loop is O-42 as mentioned before. I hope to start this layout in the spring. This layout is strictly for play value and I know this is not prototypical at all. I do have a couple buildings that I will fill in with, but want to get more to fill in the open areas. I'm thinking a road and town inside the upper level loop. I have TMCC, but all my switches and accessories will be run off their respective switches. Any hints or tips would be great.

Thanks

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12/31/136:55 PM

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RussellOGR Forum Member

I see reversing loops both ways and some looping capability plus operations.

Nicely done for the space you have.

The only issue I see is the grade needed for that short a run up to your upper level.

That is a STEEP climb.

I'm guessing less than 12 feet for 7" rise. That's about a 5% grade, possibly more.

Admittedly, the Lionel Trestle sets are just as steep.

1/2/144:46 PM

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AMCDaveOGR Forum Member

A good plan for the goal you set......looks like toy train fun!

1/2/145:31 PM

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c.demilleOGR Forum Member

I was thinking of making the platform about 6 inches high, so its still steep, but not as bad as 7 inches. I am not sure if this height would limit some rolling stock, but I do know that the rolling stock I have should work fine. I previously had a layout with a similar grade and my MTH 2-8-0 would start to slip if I had too many cars, but my Lionmaster Challenger had no problem pulling anything up the hill, the problem was if I pulled too many cars they could come off on the turns. I do have a little room to possibly extend the climbing section once it turns back towards the upper loop.

1/2/146:46 PM

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c.demilleOGR Forum Member

So my next question is regarding power. Right now I have 2 legacy engines, a legacy big boy and a legacy SD80. Both have dual motors and smoke. This layout gives me the possibility to run 3 trains simultaneously if I decide to in the future. I run TMCC and was planning on just using my powerhouse 180 to power the entire track (with multiple drops of course). I then have a CW-80 and a k-line power chief I am going to use to run all the accessories, operating/uncoupling tracks, switches, and lights. Is this going to work? I could use the power chief to run the upper loop of track if needed and isolate it from the rest of the track. What do you think?

1/13/145:56 PM

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