Carl, like you I do like wyes as well. The design iteration before this one had two in it for reversing, but the outer lines were O48 and O36. I thought those curves would do me, but then Christmas brought the PA-1s. They were very slightly used and I got them for a great price. If it weren't for a little dirt on the wheels, you'd never know they were run. Once I saw those on O36, I knew I needed larger curves. I just couldn't get the larger radius wyes to quite work to my satisfaction. Many on this forum have stated to go with the largest curves you can manage. I should have listened to that sooner. At least my mistake never made it off the computer screen. I'll look into the GG trestle track, I like the look of that. The faux siding by the reactor is good too. Need something more there. I still have to acquire the sawmill, reactor, and coal elevator, so those will be phased in over time. I'll probably put my 394 beacon on the mountain somewhere since my son is determined to have one or two aircraft hanging from the ceiling over the layout.
Stewart, great thought, but already have that covered. Both left corners of the room are cut off at a 45° angle to allow pop up access. By my measurements I'll be able to reach anything in the left corner from either the control area or that corner as the total bench depth there is less than 6'. I'll just need to decide whether to leave it open at all times, or make some scenery in the corners that I can drop out to open up the access point. I figure I'll plan for the drop out scenery, but will wait on execution until I see how much I actually have to use the access corners.
When I start construction, I'll take plenty of pictures and will start a thread to document the progress and my bloopers. It'll take some time to complete as I unfortunately can't purchase everything I need at once (mainly switches). My pockets just aren't that deep. (but tax refund time is close)
With the additional access panel behind the crane, I need to figure out how to scenic that area and still drop out the panel. When I get to that point I'll start a thread over on Scenery and Structures to get some ideas.
I still have to do some experiments for best materials on the benchwork top for noise control. At this point I'll use a 3/4" OSB top, 1" foam board, carpet padding or laminate underlayment, then green indoor/outdoor carpet. The fiber kind, not the plastic looking stuff. If I decide on a winter scene I can cover with Buffalo Snow. I love the scenery that some of you accomplish, it's just amazing, but I'm not sure I have the talent to pull that off. I'm and engineer, not an artist after all. But, I won't know until I try. Maybe I'll surprise myself.
The reason for the foam, is not noise control, but the ability to carve below grade features like the drainage pond. I'll experiment with some combinations to see what sounds best to my ear and what final look I want. There is already so many threads on controlling Fastrack noise that I won't add to that. I would use homosote if it was available in my area. Alas it's not. Heck the only hobby shop close to me is 90 miles away.
