New Layout Plan

file did not upload properly.

Don't have Scarm, so I can't deal with the file. Can you upload a jpeg?

this is the track plan, seeing as SCARM is free i really dont understand why more of you dont down load it

Who says we don't download it?

I've downloaded it and played with it, but it doesn't support the MTH RealTrax I have for my Holiday layouts or the MTH ScaleTrax I plan to use for the bedroom layout I'll start in early 2015. I'm not sure about accessory libraries, but I don't want to wait around until it supports these. Then too, others have already invested in other design software, like AnyRail, etc., and simply don't need/want another program.

Admittedly, it's a great program and often runs better than RR-Track v5.1, but it's not very useful if it doesn't do what I need/want. And while I'm sure I could figure out how to create the needed track/accessory libraries, I simply don't have the time or the desire to do so. Even though RR-Track has it's problems, it's been worth the cost for me

same here. Already got one, don't need a second

It doesn't support Macs running OS X.

I have a different train CAD program that I paid for after taking advantage of their free demo.  I may evaluate Scarm in the future, but I'm not installing just to check out someone else's layout who doesn't bother to their plan in a universally accepted format. Kudos to the OGR member for uploading a jpeg.

As for the layout, make sure you have enough clearance around the parallel tracks for the equipment you plan on running. You are close to having enough trackage for running two independent loops, if you like. Also, I don't know the absolute size of the layout, but there may be enough space to make the benchwork a mirror-image "C" shape and give you more track access and viewing options.

• Can you please post exact benchwork dimensions.
• Exactly which accesories will you be using? What is the theme for the layout?
• Need to fix the S curve in the upper part of the layout.

Below are two pictures of changes I made. The first shows the areas that I changed to make the track plan flow better, and keep a minimum of 9" center to center. The second picture shows my plan imposed over your track plan. It also shows some spurs for yard/car storage/industries.

I attached the scarm file with the basic track plan. If you would like to recreate the spurs and need help, let me know. When you can get the dimensions of the benchwork, we can tweak track length.

I also noticed when I downloaded your scarm file, it saved it as .txt. If that happens to you, change .txt to .scarm, and you will be good to go.

As scarm is used to plan layouts in all gauges, in multiple languages, is free, and is used by many people, I would say it is at least a world-wide accepted format. Your statement is ridiculus at best.

Most people post a jpg in addition to any design software file and I think that's what he's talking about. It'd be the same if I chose to post "only" an RR-Track or AnyRail file and expect people to install those. I'll grant that the tone of the post seemed a little on the hostile side, but I think the point was valid. If I want help, then I think it's prudent for me to post a jpg and either post or offer to post the software file, which is what I do. I would have simply suggested that the OP post a jpg so those who didn't want to install Scarm could still see the layout and offer suggestions. I simply responded to his question as to why everyone doesn't install Scarm, but I didn't intend to start a bandwagon. If Scarm supported MTH track, I'd be using it and would have saved some money.

I saved this as scarm and it shows in my documents as jpeg, but when uploaded it defaulted to txt.  Duh?

Chessiefan72:  Thanks.  Top section is 9' X 5', bottom section is 8' X 5', joined together on the right by a 2' X 2' section, with a 2' wide access way in the middle.  Scanner not working or would upload diagram.

Theme, as planned will be old small town (40s - 50s), graduating to country on opposite side.  Makes no difference which side.

I have a lot of cars, houses, passenger station, water towers, switch towers and just a lot of stuff.

Your suggestions are well taken.  I had a similar idea for a yard in the bottom portion, and I don't think the plan will be complete without a yard.  But I don't want to take away too much space for buildings, etc.  May have to do away with country portion, or expand benchwork, which may make it look s little funky.

Bob,

Just playing around with some ideas. I think putting the city on the 9'x5' section will give you more room to work in. I did make one change in the track plan in the upper right corner. Instead of O-45, I changed to O-54 curves and switch.

That's an excellent job Stewart. You seem to have a knack for taking a rather simple plan and turning it into something interesting. I'm tempted to consider altering my track plan to use the right half of my bedroom more like this and then adding a 2-level around-the-room extension. I guess the only real change I'd make to this plan would be to add an outside loop to allow unattended multi-train operation.

BTW, you never have gotten back to me with your ideas for my plan. I know you're busy, so I'm just hoping you've still got me on your To-Do list.

https://ogrforum.com/t...ix-to-flagstaff-idea

Dave...I'm so sorry!!! I thought I had already posted my ideas. Check your thread in a while. I've been working on too many layouts 

Dave...I'm so sorry!!! I thought I had already posted my ideas. Check your thread in a while. I've been working on too many layouts 

 

No problem, Stewart, and no need to apologize. I've been following your posts, so I know how busy you are. I just wanted to mention it to see if you were still going to offer some suggestions and this seemed like a good time to say something.

Cool, Stewart!