For consideration and if you decide to run one train, I would suggest combining the straight lengths into one and installing two turnouts. This will add interest to the layout as the train will traverse each end loop in a different direction each time it approaches a turnout. This is due the non-derailing feature of the turnouts. I have included simplified RRTrack design.
Since you brought it up... I am planning to create a second layout in another room and have an open house for the neighbors.
I am considering use of two separate "dog bone" tracks like you show above. Each will be fairly long, about 30 feet end to end. I would like to know how I could use the block/accessory activator technique to run two trains on one dog bone track. I would like the length of each train to be at least 10 track pieces (loco, tender, 8 cars). The center could be lengthened and a block/passing track could be added there or a rounded passing track could be added around one of the ends.
What are you thoughts about how to make it work, where to place the accessory activator track, and how to synchronize the switches?
Thanks!
