Start Over?

Buddy,

That is a dilemma.  I guess one question is how satisfied are you with the existing layout otherwise.  If you really like it, maybe with some information from you, some of the Forum track plan design experts could help you find a way to get the curves you need with the least amount of modification.  The layout looks really nice, but if there are some other things you would like to do differently, then maybe it is time to start planning a new layout.  Again, the same gents would be happy to give some advice.  I intend to solicit layout design help next fall/winter when planning my new layout.  And yes, I need larger curves than I have used before as well to accommodate my new Premier N&W J 611.

I do like the layout, my biggest issue is that each loop is not interconnected, the layout is separated in three individual loops.  the bottom double loop, the middle and the top.  I would really like to connect them all together.  And of course obtain the required curves for the larger engines.

If you have a track plan showing the track and dimensions of your layout you could post that here and some of the folks around here that are good track planners might be able to help you modify your existing layout. Provide as many details as you can regarding size and needs. There are some very good track planners here on the forum, but I am not one of them.

Your layout looks very nice and it seems like a shame to have to start all over again. 

You need to figure out what you like.

If you are in love with big steam, then build to suit. But unless you have a very large space to work in, know that you will have a pretty simple track plan, with those O-72 curves.

If you are more interested in a layout with lots of action...multiple trains running, room for a yard and engine terminal, then stick with tighter curves, but sacrifice the big steam.

Or maybe compromise: Keep the layout, and be content to occasionally set up a carpet central for the big guys to stretch their legs on, and just display them between-times.

Wow, that's an impressive layout. I'd hate to start over if I had something that nice, just for a couple of locomotives. The advice above from nickaix was pretty good.

My own layout was built solely to run only a specific type of locomotive, and I doubt it'd handle anything longer. In narrow gauge, all railroads were isolated so the idea of 'new' different types of power isn't an issue like it is for most layouts which could have any kind of run-through power on the head end.

But I agree, it's gut-check time. Which do you want?

• Keep it as is and box up the new locos?
• Tear up a portion to have curves in a specific place to run them?
• Break out the anvils and blowtorches and do your best, "Godzilla rampaging through Tokyo" impression?

Only you can answer this, not any of us.

If that were my layout, I'd sell the locos that I couldn't run, but that's just me...

Good luck with your decision and let me know how it came out!

I was in the same situation as you were late last year.  Advice on Decision I took the plunge and have never looked back.  I was able to increase overall size and upgrade curves to 108 on the out loop.  Also I am sure that you made mistakes along the way and thought to yourself "if I had to do it over again I would have done this".  Now you can actually go back and do it. 

This past year I completely reworked my layout to support an 072 loop for my new Lionel BB and 844.  In doing so I was able to correct certain mistakes that I made on the first layout.  It was a lot of work but very worth it for me.  I really enjoy running those locos, and all my other stuff runs great on it as well.

That is a very nice layout. Before I tore it down I would consider:

• Finding a local club where the big stuff can stretch its legs.
• Shop Lionel LionMaster or MTH Railking Imperial that will run on what you already have.

Making that layout work for 072 minimum locomotives is a whole bunch more than a simple loop addition. Just my $0.02

When in doubt, rip it out.  Seriously, consider where you are in the hobby as far as years go.  If you plan to have your layout for many more years, you might want to take the drastic option.  

Thanks guys I really appreciate all the comments and thoughts.  The actual room is 12 feet wide by 22 feet long.  The majority of my steam engines are MTH Imperial.  The minimum curve right now is O42.  Max curve is O54.  I have already taken some time and drawn up a track plan that has 3 loops, with a O80 radius.  Each loop is connected with each other.  Now is the time to make up my mind and if I really want to go thru the dismantling for 4 Lionel engines.  I also realize that all the engines would definitely run much smoother and nicer on the bigger curves.

Buddy

Buddy, I suggest you start dismantling the layout.....why.....because everytime you start running your trains, instead of enjoying them...your mind will wander as to how to best increase the radii of your curves....so you might as well get it over with.....you know you want to.....plus the pleasure of running that big boy will make it worthwhile!

Good luck and post pics.

-Pete

If your going to rip it out make sure you have a plan that you are set on with a minimum radii you can run your equipment on.
I started my lower deck with 072 minimum... and I am sorry I did that. My upper deck now has a minimum radius of O 100.

bbenakjr posted:

Now is the time to make up my mind and if I really want to go thru the dismantling for 4 Lionel engines.  I also realize that all the engines would definitely run much smoother and nicer on the bigger curves. 

This begs the question of why you bought the engines in the first place. Are you a collector who has now decided you'd like to be able to run them? Or did you subconsciously "want" to build a new layout and this gives you a reason to do so?

This thread is exactly where I am now. It was suggested to me that I start to acquire all that I need for the next layout before I take down the old - good advice that is working for me. I can run trains and still build up the stock of items for the next one.

MIKE

Forgot to say that is a great looking layout!!

Hi Buddy,

How wide is the narrowest corner for the top run on a 45° from the corner?

What's the height difference between levels? (especially the top and the middle)

What's the clearance from the wall on the long straights on the top level?

What track and switches are you using?

I fit an Atlas O99 around the top with 3'-3 1/2" from the wall all the way around in a 12' (144") x 22' (264") area. it needs a corner of 31" on a 45° from the corner for the top.

It looks like your drop is around 10" to the next level, so I split the difference going down 5" for a second O90 loop and then down another 5" to an O81 loop. Essentially, add another loop to cut the grades.

This may let you keep the layout structure and provide a level and up and down loop to run the big engines.

I am working on concept to modify the existing structure and keep the grades at 2.5% to travel between levels. Perhaps leave the base level as it is and modify only the middle and top levels to connect and handle the large steamers. The big steamers won't fit on the TT.  

I am still working on the grades and such, but here's some 3D of where it is now. I need to work something like a passing siding to keep the train on the center.

DoubleDAZ posted:

bbenakjr posted:

Now is the time to make up my mind and if I really want to go thru the dismantling for 4 Lionel engines.  I also realize that all the engines would definitely run much smoother and nicer on the bigger curves. 

This begs the question of why you bought the engines in the first place. Are you a collector who has now decided you'd like to be able to run them? Or did you subconsciously "want" to build a new layout and this gives you a reason to do so?

I was wondering the same thing.

I’m the type of person if I see something thats really nice I usually buy it.  My whole purpose in being in the hobby is to run the trains.  No point in doing anything else with them.  Ever since I was little, I always enjoyed running the trains.  I bought the vision line Big Boy because I live in Omaha, Nebraska.  My dad would take me down to the UP yards and watch the trains.  There is a Big Boy on display in Kenefick Park, which is 5 minutes from my house.  Having the model keeps my dream of seeing one actually running down the tracks here in Omaha.  Which hopefully will be soon, since the 4014 is being restored to service.  I’ve had Lionel trains in my family since my grandfather bought my dad his first engine in 1947.  We still have those trains and new ones today.

Buddy

In other words, you really wanted a reason to build a new layout.