opinions/suggestions re: small layout

I would avoid shelf layouts with a lot of switches.  Derailments are hard to service. If going that route at least use Ross switches.  The inner loop may not be that visible unless you elevate it a bit from the outer one. O scale shelf layouts can be noisy I would use a lot of sound deadening techniques. Personally I would run it conventional.

Dale H

Thank you Dale.

That's a good point re: derailments. I really want to avoid that so reducing the number of switches is not out of the question. Nor is using a combination of Ross and Gargraves.

We are currently running an MTH SD70ACe and a mix of 10 to 14 older Lionel and new MTH cars on a realtrax oval. The oval is placed directly on a ceramic floor so I think I get an idea of the noise.  I agree we'll have to use something to deaden the sound, especially if running two trains.

The reason I was thinking DCS is because I would really like to have a lash-up (two trains, four locomotives) not using dummies. Maybe for such a small layout it isn't worth the investment, but on the other hand, having such a small layout will ensure that I don't go crazy.   I don't plan on having more equipment than I can run.

Originally I had wanted to have the outer loop descend below the main level and complete a second loop hidden from view. I thought this would make the layout seem larger but I'm not sure I have enough space. Even if I push the grade to 5% I don't think I have enough linear feet to make it work well.

I used K-Line snap track. For tubular it is pretty quiet with its thick plastic ties. Ross makes tin plate switches which mate with Lionel tubular. Click on photo to enlarge

RMT a Forum sponsor sells K-Line snap and Justrains of delaware had some wide radius curves left over from K-Lines demise. I added track pins.

I think a layout that size double heading is probably not needed with 2 power units.

Since the layout is in 2 rooms,you may want to make a timed stop circuit so the train disappears from the room,remains hidden for a while , then reappears. Real trains are rarely seen all the time. This is a lot easier done in conventional than command. On my blog there are various timing circuit for conventional.

www.jcstudiosinc.com/BlogCategoryMain?catId=426

another pic of K-Line snap

Actually the layout I am building is in an old school in western Pa.

No kidding?  Too funny....but very cool.  The architecture in buildings of that time period is very desireable, in my humble opinion.

Good luck!

I know for the size of the layout double heading isn’t required, it’s more personal preference.   I’m moving towards powered units over a dummy because I can get sound from both locomotives out of the box.

I will rethink the switches in the other room as per your suggestion re: derailments.

Thanks again for your input.

I forgot to add I am also considering modifying the track plan a bit and using the section in the other room for an Empty-Load trick as detailed on page 65 of the June/July (run 264) issue of O Gauge Railroading.