Ideas for O-72 Layouts

My thoughts are to think big, radius that is.

But we should know how much space is available. E.g., is the 8'x8' table space in the middle of a 12'x12' room?

If you don't know, you l will find out that reaching more than 2 1/2 feet into the layout is close to the limit where two hands are required. So and 8'x8' table will need an access to the middle.

I'm attaching a photo of how we set it up. Basically it's in the basement - we took two 8' long tables and then put down a foam base, leaving access in the middle.

What are the dimensions of the layout shown in the picture? 

In the long run I believe you be much more satisfied with a double mainline. Considering that you are using FasTrack you have two basic options to accompany your O72. Either use O84 for an outside line or O60 for an inside line. IMO, leaving yourself the most options for locomotives and longer freight and passenger cars, I would omit the use of O36 on your layout and save it for a Christmas tree train.

Thanks I believe it's a close 8x8 square from end to end..it may be like 8.5x8 but I'm conservative.

Yes, we are using fasttrack.  When you say "double mainline" you mean that each run should be separate and not connected together (ie switch from track 1 to track 2), correct?

Most all modelers will connect track one to track two with switches. If you stay with FasTrack you will need to have four (4) switches to go from track 1 to track 2 and back again to track 1 without backing backwards to get back to track 1. And you definitely will need O72 switches for larger locomotives.

Of course there is no requirement to connect track 1 to track 2. 

IcedCorn posted:

I'm attaching a photo of how we set it up. Basically it's in the basement - we took two 8' long tables and then put down a foam base, leaving access in the middle.

 

 

Well, from here it's switches, and crosses, perhaps elevation.

Anyway, if you keep the side straights the same length and space them about 6" apart center rail to rail you can enlarge the O36 and keep the bridge placement. (see attached pdf)

I see a couple of 10" straights, you'll need a few more. You could use 4-10" that have between the curves and join the centers on the ends with the 5" pieces. That would use what you have on hand for a larger O36 loop.

While the loops may seem simple, they are reliable. What would make this fun for son depends on his interests. Doing scenery makes a simple layout look really nice and look more than just ovals. paint a base color on the foam and glue some scenic material down, make trees or buy trees and bushes, carve some terrain into the foam beforehand. A lot of these activities can involve a young child and create some fun time.

The other activity is to give the train something to do. Pick-up and unload stuff. So, a couple of switches and sidings off of the O36 loop to something will provide play value. That's one reason that I moved the O36 closer to the edge. Reach to play.

Read this thread layout for a 7 year old - I think you'll get some ideas.

For the SCARM file - right-click the attachment -select "save target as" or "save as" and drop on your computer and open it with SCARM. The table is 8' x 9' by counting your tracks in the photo. Pull a 10" on the sides if it's too long.

I agree about losing the 36 inch radius and, as suggested, have two ovals, tracks close together. My opinion on the foam under the tracks and been expressed in other posts. Because of the fire hazard, and the deadly fumes and smoke should it catch fire, even though it is widely promoted, it should be banned from layouts, except for small sculptured mountains or cuts.  With a double oval signal bridges can be used, which look quite nice. On the inner loop, a single turnout leading to a second switch and two LONG sidings.

What you have here is not an acceptable build.Styrofoam is not a structural material and is a fire hazard.Do it right and build some proper structure then you can place a sound deadning material over it if you wish.Just no point in putting good money over bad as we say.Good luck.Nick