@James in VA posted:AviatorRuss, I'm curious where you went with this as I'd like to plan/build a tree layout this year as practice for building a spare bedroom layout for the first time. Your baseline design is too complex for me so here are my requirements:
- approximately 6' x 6' (can go a bit bigger in one direction as necessary)
- modular plywood construction (2-3 modules) for garage storage
- MTH Realtrax (i already have a fair amount of this)
- simultaneous two train ops (LionChief; loco, tender + 3-4 cars each)
- interconnected at ground level so trains can trade loops (two switches)
- outer loop stays at ground level
- inner loop climbs about 12" and then descends (mini nested helix?)
I welcome anyone's thoughts!
And to Russ too, you need to practice grade pulling before planning. Knowing your equipment quirks on grades is important.
You'll also need command or blocks for running "no hands". Grades require attention to the throttle at all times. (or a reduced voltage block)
I have a grade near Lionel tressel grade (actually less) and its 18ft for 7" rise and my best can only pull 10-12 light cars, or just 3-4 heavies and that is with "modded" track; one rail has detacked two sided tape on it for better traction.
Test your intended trains can handle the grades and transitions (no fast change at top or bottom)
