i don't have track planning software so i can't map this out. a while ago got my granddaughter the remote controlled thomas. it comes with a simple oval of track. two straights and 8 curves. would i be correct in thinking these are O36? i want to add two manual switches and track for a passing siding. i am not sure what i need. the Outer Passing Loop Add-on Track Pack on the lionel store seems to have extra straights. could i get by with 2 switches, 2 curves and one straight?
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It appears you would be correct that they are 036 - I don't have it but the description for the set says the track forms a 40" x 50" oval and that describes 036 diameter curves with two 10" straights (the 36" is centerline to centerline). So yes, you could do what you described with two switches (036, one right and one left), two 036 curved track sections and one 10" straight section.
Tape measure!Nick
Looks like the Thomas set you have has four 036 curves and two 10" straights, one of which is power to the track.
The Add on kit has five 10" straights, two 036 Switches with a 1/4 036 curve added to each, and two additional 036 curves.
The issue is, the add on pack assumes your base set has two more 10" straights.
I have laid out the track plan for you below. The gray represents the track you already have. The green track is what comes in the add on kit. The two red 10" tracks are in addition to the add on pack.
Overall footprint is around 72" x 49".
Thanks volphin
very helpful graphic.
The other option is not to use one of the 10" straights from the add on pack, so the straight legs only have two each. Use the extra to display Thomas when he's not running.
The size of Fastrack is printed on the bottom of each section.
Volphin is correct. The add-on was designed for the conventional RTR sets that included a 40" x 60" oval. The LionChief RTR sets cut 2-10" out.
I wanted to keep the footprint small for my grandson's Thomas table. I purchased 2-036 manual switches(used), 2-5" straights and 2-036 curves to add to the included track. He's only 3 yrs old now, so it's easier to keep him happy and keep everything within reach. The bigger footprint is coming, I know it.
I agree Moon. That footprint is going to get a LOT larger, because you are a great dad that makes things happen! 
Here's his Sodor next to my little ARR. The "lids" come off of Annie and Clarabel. The Fisher-Price Cranky complains a lot lifting loads. The Fat Controller grts rides in various cars. The work train gondola carries lumber scraps. He's not to keen on the work train "Cranky" (his name for all cranes). And of course, the Polar Express bell is a special load from time to time. It's winter in Sodor.
Ye olde support post(s) will be gone soon. This will allow the right-of-way owned by the Arctic RR to be utilized. Sodor will be floated to another location.
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