New modular layout started

Not sure if you realize this but your crossover between the loops is one way. Both of them are in the same direction and its basically creating an irreversable reversing loop. You might want to reverse one of them so you can have 2 way operation between the loops.

Yeah, I noticed when I test ran the track plan that I am in a pickle. Either the inner or the outer main line would be irreversible.

I am not sure if there is a good solution for this without adding more switches.

Small L shaped layout can be a challenge ( Im learning this). What about connecting the 2 lines inside the tunnel? Not very proto, I know, but it may be a solution of sorts...and would require more switches.

Why is it necessary to physically connect the Fastrack[forceful/jerky] at the Module joints? I am not familiar with Fastrack and may be missing something.

Can you not just have them electrically connected via separate wire runs to each Module's track with track simply butted together with just a minicule narrow gap where it physically crosses the joint between units? The train won't know that the rails are not connected. 

It is possible to remove the pins that connect fastrack, thus allowing you to have two pieces of track that butt together but are not physically connected.  Pry-up and Loosen the metal tabs undeneath each  rail to remove the pins.

Another idea is to have a piece of track span the gap.  Then cut the track to align with the joint. 

As mentioned, you then have to eletrically connect the track segments with wires and connectors.

The easiest thing to do is cut off the plasticlocking tab at each end of the road bed.  By doing thiyou you will only have the friction of the pins mating.

Thanks for the great ideas. I will test them out as I get to that stage.

Given that most track pieces don't line up with the module ends, it will probably a combination of all of suggestions.

I wouldnt worry too much about the track lining up on each modular. The beauty of snap track is you dont have to lay roadbed and tack the track. On my modular Im building everything and doing the scenery and then laying the tracks after...they wont be screwed down.

Last weekend I went through the dry-fitting process to test out the concept from the CAD drawings. I reworked the design to make it smaller (no more L-shape) and more compact. Running the tracks all the way to the edges would leave only minimal space for scenery or a safety zone for accidents.
Sometimes less is more and the reduced scope will help with the usability and portability.

The new design is attached as well as a picture of the test tracks.

I will fasten the fasttrack to the foam on each module with drywall screws and then cut off the plastic tabs for the connecting pieces. With the modules being connected to each other, it should provide sufficient connection. Since I was running into some electrical issues with test-running, I will make sure to have sufficient wiring to each track block. The different modules will be connected via plugs.

After a few more weekends I was able to get the layout moving again. I did a lot of electrical work to get it set up for conventional block control. A control panel with two cabs is now in place and operational. The plan had to be adjusted a few times to make it work better. Since the basic track is now functioning, I am having my son test run the layout before we start with the more advanced (permanent) scenery.

It is still a modular layout that can be taken apart and stored. The electrical connections from module to module and via plugs and work really well. I do have some dead spots on some of the older Fastrack pieces. though, that I am trying to identify and fix. In addition I getting the operating accessories installed as well.

There is no good spot for the cattle loading platform and I will need to leave it out. You don't want it close to a regularly used track since the loading platform needs to be very tight to fit and that can make passing trains get caught.

Close up of the control panel. I plan to update it with some LED's indicating the blocks and potentially the switch direction. The current paper map will also be updated with a plexi-class cover to give it a more finished look. Otherwise it is full workable and well situated.

Testing in progress with more items in play. We notices also that the yard was too far in the middle of the layout and moved it in by 10 inches. That makes the operating easier. The tunnel is just the wood frame. Next step will be to install the tunnel portals and build up the hillside. I plan to have a removable hill-top above.

The incline from Woodlands Scenics was a great investment. It really made the transitions easy. 3% incline allows for some variation and is not too much for the trains to handle.

No California layout is complete without palm trees.