Layout Progress. 13x18. 7/30/2015

If I'm looking at the plan right, the train yard will need to be elevated in order to make it work with the main line? Am I missing the boat on this?

I don't like the access for the turn table to be off the yard like it is. I'm not sure what to do at this point. I like this and the previous layout idea, but I'm leaning more towards the previous concept because I feel it offers me more options for running trains. 

The size of my layout and the style is similar. I agree you should utilize largest diameter curves possible. 054 absolute minimum, use moderate grades (3.0 % max.), make all areas accessible if at all possible. Murphy's law; the switch track furthest from you will derail often. Aisles should be 24" min, 36" would be better. Here's a couple pics, hope it helps , I don't want to give unwanted info at this stage, take from it what you will or discard it altogether. Regards,Cliff

Andrew,

The yard is indeed elevated to the same level as the turntable, 7 3/4 inches.  The RR=Track file contains the elevations.  They just cluttered the picture.

My personal preference is the prior layout even though it had O63 maximum curves.

In Obsidian's plan the grades cut be halved if the lower (zero elevation) track descended.

Jan

PS.  The prior layout would have looked good with O72 and larger curves.

Thanks for your info Clifford. I have viewed pictures of your layout previously. I must say, you have an amazing layout.

It has been a long process to get the bench work completed. I have some of it done and wanted to post an update. The time crunch got me over the summer, so hopefully more progress can be made over the winter.

thank you for looking.

Andrew

Andrew,

have you ever considered putting a staging yard below your main level to maximize space? Compliments to Jan and Obsidian for great layout plans- nice work guys.

Geno

It has been a long time since I've posted an update to my layout build. It has been a slow process with lots of learning by me. I have 2 main "loops" completed along with adding an elevated Standard Gauge train track. Construction of the main lines took a period of time due to unavailability of track. My next steps are to paint the base a brown color and cut in where the water scene will be. I won't ballast the track until I purchase and install the switches in the proper place. 

One problem I have run into is my table top isn't perfectly level, so I have some "high points". It seems to really be a problem for the elevated Standard Gauge track as it causes the front truck to come off the track. Any advice on how to fix that problem would be appreciated. 

Thank you you for taking the time to look. Hopefully some more progress can be made soon. 

Regards

Andrew