Toy Train Layout VS Model train layout

As far as grades and attention to detail, everything that applies to HO applies to O.   The curves are different and you need to allow twice the width for the track, but the concepts and techniques are identical.

RR,

My skill set sounds similar to yours so I decided on a toy train layout.  Some accessories, lots of tracks and sidings, no grades.  Instead I have levels on the opposite walls, that are easier to set up and fit better in my 12 x 12 room.

Green felt is your friend....

I can run 4 trains, 2 bump and go trolleys, 1 handcar, and a point to point train, all at the same time.  Lots of activity, no grades, (no artistic talent!)

The trains are almost all MTH Railking PS2/3, with DCS, Legacy, conventional.  Pushbuttons for the kids to press to run accessories and bump and go's.

Ed

Is there any chance you can send me some more picks at rraddict@gmail.com?

I prefer to call it a display layout versus a hi-rail layout. What level of abstraction or realism is used to portray the layout.

I would say toy is a certain appearance used in both type layouts. Some of the nice tinplate layouts say toy to me and are display layouts.

Eddie's layout is a nice display layout designed more for running trains than prototypical operations with an abstract approach to the scenery. His town creates the illusion of a town, but without the exact representation of detail. I think most of us build that type. Check out some of TWTrainworx layouts.

The first element, to my eye, of a display layout is continuous running. Real railroads go out and come back, sometimes using wyes , turntables or balloons to turn a train around. They don't run in loops.

Any way, pardon my detour. I enjoy the art of a layout.

If it's track plans you are looking for, then look at any and all. The internet is great for that. Grades are pretty much the same in any scale. Anything over 2% is a steep grade. O Gauge Model trains, with traction tires or magnatraction can handle up to 4% grades, but they cause special operating adjustments. So, if you stay at 3% or under you should not have a problem.

Your table size limits you to 054 diameter curves for most track mfgs and 060 with FasTrack or smaller diameter, not counting easements. 4.5" to 6" center rail-to-center rail spacing will give you enough clearance for mainlines. You can get tighter in a yard.

Then decide on your track to scenery ratio. Even placing buildings and accessories can eat up some real estate. They are 4" x 6" and larger footprints. On a double loop with some switches and a stub or two, you can reduce the available places for buildings and accessories quickly on a 5 1/2 x 10.

I've attached a 1954 Lionel Manual that has 5 x 9 track plans, a very thoughtful article on the design your layout process (which I think will help you focus, easy read).

Thortrains is a fun, common sense place to start with a lot of examples of layouts and train related ideas and experience.

Unless you are choosing a specific section of a railroad in a specific time period, then you are right in there with most model railroaders. So, look around see what you like, call it what you like and build it. There aren't any rules except for gravity and electricity. They don't change.

Have fun!

Here's my problem......I love scale detail and realistic scenery/buildings.......But, I will not part with my operating cars and operating accessories.

See the operatng aquarium cars in front of a realistic icing station.

Peter

God bless all of you for the help and keep it coming please.

RR,

I'll send a few more pics via email soon...

Peter,

That's not a problem, that's you doing your thing (nicely, I might add)!

Moonman,

Good points!, I'm assuming your reference to balloons is about reversing loops!

Ed

eddiem,

Yes, old rr term for the venerable reversing loop. Humboldt, CA

RR,

Here's a google search image results of 5 x 9 O gauge layouts. You'll see more than a few from this forum. google is useful, but creepy.

Awesome thank you very much.

I hear where you're coming from! I have a toy train layout as well. Most of my rolling stock are operating cars and I also have several accessories inclusing the AEC Nuclear Reactor that completely throws any attempt at realism out the door. Honestly, if I wanted realism I'd stick with N or HO. O is all about the fun of operating cars/accessories. My layout started as a 5x10 though I added some extensions to allow a couple of sidings. You can see the latest version of the plan here: https://ogrforum.com/t...25#27334379157318625

Also here is a thread from when I first started my layout and showing what it looks like before my latest remodel. https://ogrforum.com/t...71#26630562640703371

Click through my Run Room Photo Tour to see what happens to you when your toy train running gets out of hand.