Would love some feedback on this layout

I really like it except only one reverse loop doesn't allow a train to go back to the original direction. 

romiller

It looks like you used some layout design software for you picture.  Please post the actual layout file so that those using the same software can open it and see what kind of track you are using.

I, for one, can't make out any details in the posted picture, but if the inside loop is going up and over the reversing loop track, it looks like your grade will be difficult for most equipment to climb.

Chuck

Your image is really blurry for some reason and I can't make out the size tracks you're using. I tried using FasTrack in SCARM, but can't seem to come up with the right combination. I use both SCARM and RR-Track software, so can you upload your file? It looks to me like you're too close to the walls and trains are going to hit, especially going into and coming out of the curves. Your tunnels will have to start/end in the curves and not along the sides. There are also some places where the tracks don't join. And RO is right, only one reversing loop means that once a train starts going clockwise, it will have to be backed up to reverse. There's nothing wrong with it if you're okay with that limitation.

PRR1950 posted:

I, for one, can't make out any details in the posted picture, but if the inside loop is going up and over the reversing loop track, it looks like your grade will be difficult for most equipment to climb.

I think that's a 45° crossing, Chuck. At least that's what I've been trying to make work.

Yes - that is correct - it is a 45 degree crossing

If the upload works I have attached the file from Railmodeller pro that I used

I am also going to post a separate post showing images of the space I am using

Thanks for the input so far - I hear you about the reversing loop - but I just can't seem to fit a second loop in there

Here are some images of the space - the first is empty and the second shows an approximation of the layout using the pieces I have 'in stock' at the moment.

the space is 56" across (measuring along the floor) and I can prob get to about 125" or so length 

Sorry, I can't use the file, I'm using Windows 10. Anyway, I was able to get close in SCARM, but there seems to be some differences in track dimensions or something. Hopefully, you'll be able compare tracks and see where the differences are. I added the extra inch to make the base 56"x125". Allowing that the plastic roadbed adds width, it looks like the actual track clearances will be okay, though I'm still concerned about the engine overhang around the curves.

What would you think about using 2 additional switches and have a double crossover, which will give you the chance to run 2 trains at a time, and also give you a chance to have some unique signal situation on the double cross over. Ross make a very nice double cross over that will save you space too.

Buzz

I would love that - any idea how I would execute it with fastrack? Just another 2 O72 switches I guess?

Think I've managed to add something along those lines - how about this?

I am not that familiar with Fast Track. I don't know what your inter track dimension is? You would probably same money and space if you used Ross's double crossover. If you could adapt it to Fast Track and your layout.  If you desire you can email me. It is in my profile.

Buzz

http://rossswitches.com

Hi MikeOwen17,

See if this works for you. Two trains can run at the same time, reverse directions and cross-over with two spurs. Loop isolation and power control for spurs are marked.

Looks nice for the space.  I would keep with the FasTrack switches and skip the double crossover, IMHO.  As for the slight misalignment you are seeing in the software, I wouldn't worry about it, FasTrack has enough give to make up for it.  And once screwed down, it won't go anywhere.  So, thus seeing you are doing this on the floor, I would still buy some wood and make a platform, even if it's just sitting on the floor.  This will allow you to hide wires, and do some scenery work.

Moonman posted:

Hi MikeOwen17,

See if this works for you. Two trains can run at the same time, reverse directions and cross-over with two spurs. Loop isolation and power control for spurs are marked.

 

I like it!  I was thinking about this and thought there is no way to get a double reversing loop in that space.  Nice job.  Hope it works out for the OP.

On another note, make sure you have access through the layout to take care of derailments and track cleaning unless of course you like to climb :-).  Also, you said you want to use the O48 loop for some larger locomotives.  Many specify O54 as minimum but you might get away with that.  I have a Lionel Chessie T-1 that specifies O42 curves minimum but it clears O36 without issue.  Of course there was no such thing as O36 back in the '90s when it was made and O48 as far as I know is new with FasTrack too.

Tony

Moonman posted:

See if this works for you. Two trains can run at the same time, reverse directions and cross-over with two spurs. Loop isolation and power control for spurs are marked. 

Carl, seems like I've seen that layout before. Certainly a better use of the space.

Moonman - that is Fantastic - thank you so much - a big improvement over the original

Tony - I was actually thinking about that this morning - I was going to use a cork base then pink foam to build scenery - so I definitely need to consider how I can walk through the layout

And regarding the larger locos - yes, I was hoping that O48 (being neither O42 or O56 - so not commonly used as a 'minimum' size option) would be wide enough for all but the largest locomotives.

The O42 full curve is on order and should be with me soon!

DoubleDAZ posted:

Moonman posted:

See if this works for you. Two trains can run at the same time, reverse directions and cross-over with two spurs. Loop isolation and power control for spurs are marked. 

Carl, seems like I've seen that layout before. Certainly a better use of the space.

The O36 depressed figure 8 is a stock layout that I have. Stretched the ends a little. I worked the rest to fit his space and add some elements. So, it's one of a kind designed for Mike.

mikeowen17 posted:

Moonman - that is Fantastic - thank you so much - a big improvement over the original

Tony - I was actually thinking about that this morning - I was going to use a cork base then pink foam to build scenery - so I definitely need to consider how I can walk through the layout

And regarding the larger locos - yes, I was hoping that O48 (being neither O42 or O56 - so not commonly used as a 'minimum' size option) would be wide enough for all but the largest locomotives.

The O42 full curve is on order and should be with me soon!

 

Mike,

I didn't imagine that scenery was going in there. I saw the spaces as walk-in areas. be careful where you put the scenery!

Oh, it's FasTrack. I didn't note that.

Moonman posted:

mikeowen17 posted:

Moonman - that is Fantastic - thank you so much - a big improvement over the original

Tony - I was actually thinking about that this morning - I was going to use a cork base then pink foam to build scenery - so I definitely need to consider how I can walk through the layout

And regarding the larger locos - yes, I was hoping that O48 (being neither O42 or O56 - so not commonly used as a 'minimum' size option) would be wide enough for all but the largest locomotives.

The O42 full curve is on order and should be with me soon!

 

Mike,

I didn't imagine that scenery was going in there. I saw the spaces as walk-in areas. be careful where you put the scenery!

Oh, it's FasTrack. I didn't note that.

Yeah - I was actually going to go pretty all in with the scenery - with a mountain at the end with tunnels (pink foam, removable top for accessibility) - but I realize I have to be very careful in terms of making sure I can walk on portions of the layout to maintain/retrieve trains!

mikeowen17 posted:

Moonman posted:

mikeowen17 posted:

Moonman - that is Fantastic - thank you so much - a big improvement over the original

Tony - I was actually thinking about that this morning - I was going to use a cork base then pink foam to build scenery - so I definitely need to consider how I can walk through the layout

And regarding the larger locos - yes, I was hoping that O48 (being neither O42 or O56 - so not commonly used as a 'minimum' size option) would be wide enough for all but the largest locomotives.

The O42 full curve is on order and should be with me soon!

 

Mike,

I didn't imagine that scenery was going in there. I saw the spaces as walk-in areas. be careful where you put the scenery!

Oh, it's FasTrack. I didn't note that.

Yeah - I was actually going to go pretty all in with the scenery - with a mountain at the end with tunnels (pink foam, removable top for accessibility) - but I realize I have to be very careful in terms of making sure I can walk on portions of the layout to maintain/retrieve trains!

Ok, how much space is there at the viewpoint where the photos were taken?

I am thinking that you could put casters under the table/board and pull it out for maintenance and such. Perhaps even furniture sliders.

Another thought, to keep it all on the floor,  would be to put the scenery in the first loop on one side of the siding and the triangle on a piece of luan or shaped foam as a diorama that you can pick up and remove to have a place to step in for access.

the 1/4" roll cork for floor underlayment will go a long way for sound attenuation. then, everything on top of that.

There is plenty of space behind me - prob 8ft or so

I am thinking a modular structure like you suggested would work great - with portions of the scenery removable to give me space to step in. This would have the dual benefit of allowing me to work on them downstairs where I have more space

I threw this together quickly, so there are lots of filler pieces, but this combines the initial plan and later revisions. More sidings can be added as you like.

mikeowen17 posted:

There is plenty of space behind me - prob 8ft or so

I am thinking a modular structure like you suggested would work great - with portions of the scenery removable to give me space to step in. This would have the dual benefit of allowing me to work on them downstairs where I have more space

I am leaning to the scenery dioramas, too. Less of a pain.

Stewart's track plan is great.  It takes advantage of the biggest benefit of three rail, the automatic reversing loop.  With Fastrack non-derail feature, these work fantastic.  With this layout you can run two trains on separate loops.  Either train can route through the layout and reverse directions on it's loop.  The only drawback is the length of train limitation, but only more space solves that.  This is easy to operate in a command control environment, but more complex in conventional.

 I have used similar layouts before.  I wish DCS had a way to setup an automatic protected crossing.  I know it is possible with block control, and I think Lionel's new LCS system may have a solution, but these are very complex to me.

George