coltm16a2556 posted:Carl, I really wish I would have had your input before I built what I have. It sure seems like it would keep my layout more interesting. Also, with this plan, I can keep my current table structure. A lot of my current layout is O27, but I've kinda been wanting to phase all that out for O31 anyways. So if I put in a Menards order for some track and search for some used switches, I would have about everything I need.
A little back story: I'm 30 years old and have 3 kids, boys ages 2 and 5, and a girl age 8. My plan for now is to have a layout similar in size to what I have now in the same room. I want it to be interesting to my kids so that they are interested in something other than video games and tv. I just about have to force my 5 year old son to play trains. He gets bored with it the way it is, and frankly I don't blame him. My current layout was made to fit the trains I had at the time, not realizing that would make for a boring layout. My American Flyer S gauge belonged to my father. I personally think it is my neatest train so I want it incorporated in one way or another.
I think can work with the layout you posted Carl. I might even work in a O gauge yard, like suggested earlier. I might even eliminate the S siding. I don't plan on buying many more S gauge trains. I have trouble with the link couplers, and plan on rubber banding them together. Thus, a siding is almost useless. (I won't update the couplers, I want it original). With young kids, a coupler coming undone can be a disaster, especially on an elevated track.
So my goal is to get my kids into trains, but not go overboard. I also want a way to showcase the trains I do have. I also consider this layout to be a stepping stone. If my kids get into it a lot, I'll expand. If I get into it a lot, I'll expand later when my kids move out and funds allow. If I need to expand now in order to get my kids into this hobby, then I can expand now. I just don't want to spend a lot of money and time, but end up with the same results.
Thank you for your time and input Carl. I really do appreciate the help.
My wife is getting me the Roger Carp book "Classic Lionel Display Layouts You Can Build" through the library soon. I will also be looking through that for ideas. I really like the look of some of the old Lionel dealer displays.
Colt,
Just curious, why are you ordering track from Menard's? May I suggest you do more research on track before you commit. I am not familiar with Menard's track, but I would have to see it and talk to people who use it before I order it.
I'm currently using Fastrack which I'm not having any issues with, but I don't like the price of their remote switches.
There is also Atlas and Gargraves. I haven't used either one, but a lot of people like one or the other depending on who you talk to. I have also seen threads about Atlas switches and the problems they have. A lot of people use Ross switches on both Atlas and Gargraves. I have seen Atlas and Gargraves in use and I like the look of both of them. Also there is the old tube track. A lot of people still use it and are very happy with it.
MTH has their track as well, but I haven't really looked into it.
I just noticed this part of the forum is sponsored by Ross.
