DoubleDAZ posted:Hi Mark,I couldn't help trying a couple of different approaches to John's design that might better fit your space and desired operation. See what you think.NOTE: I updated this based on the changes you emailed today. (I should have noticed that and moved those upper spurs to the outside.)
I replaced both turntables with reversing loops to allow for the placement of buildings, trees, mountain, etc. For example, you could place a logging operation in the top loop, then paint a logging truck coming down to a loading platform on the wall. There are ways to use trees and other landscaping elements to make it look like a train with empty cars is arriving and a train with full cars is departing. A mill would be located on the upper access hatch and a lumber yard and other building would be in the bottom loop.I also changed the lower loop to make it look smoother, moved the lower loop to eliminated tracks crossing over each other and added a possible hidden staging yard (pylons are for visibility).In the first example, the yellow track is at 8”, the blue track is at 0" and the purple grade is 3.3%. The red dots denote tracks that need to be cut. The staging yard is optional and can be deleted simply by replacing the switch and make-up curve with a full O42 curve. Even though this doesn't have a passing siding, it allows more space for landscaping the incline with trees, etc., like the magazine photos you emailed.In this 2nd example, the yellow track is at 7”, the green track is at 2”, the blue track is at 0", the longer purple grade is 3.6%, the shorter purple grade is 3.3% and the passing siding has been included. The entry to the staging yard is kind of curvy, but backing in would be slow, it can be straightened by altering the bench work a bit and cutting the transition track coming off the switch.
Dave: NOT faulting your effort...I love the drawing program you are using.
There are multiple issues here: There are turnouts situated improperly. Curve part is main line. Switch is set for potential "S" curves. Multiple sections of track over over switches/yard area. Bottom area has completely changed and is eating up too much space...reach is becoming a major issue. Accessing cars parked in that yard is going to be a pain in the rear with tracks over it. Personal issue....I don't like the toy train loop at the bottom of the drawing--it may be possible to disguise this loop then access would be come even further restricted. The passing siding has really been shortened.
This area is relatively small. This plan now includes a "continuous" option, which isn't bad in itself, but with the limited run, this track configuration is turning into a looping toy train layout.
I realize everyone is different, everyone has their own opinion and tastes, but Mark relayed to me that he wanted something more realistic. This drawing isn't.
It would be a heck of a lot more realistic, interesting, fun and challenging to create the original design and run point to point. At the end of the run, as in real life, the engine would have to be turned and serviced for its return trip. It would require switching the caboose position as well. This would give an Operator(s) something to do. The track arrangement above would require some one to turn the power on and sit and watch.
If someone would do the looping arrangement above I would place the track on the floor--Fastrak or similar. It would be easier to access everything and when a person got tired of the looping the arrangement could be changed without great expense.
I know this sounds snotty, short and sarcastic....NONE of that is my intention. I am/was merely attempting to fulfill Mark's request of having a more realistic arrangement.
Lastly, Dave you are great! to help all the people, including me, in this Forum. I understand and appreciate the time and effort it takes to do the drawing.
I wish I had your program and skill. You seem to be able to produce these quickly.
My two cents....and at least since I'm Mark's unofficial adviser, I can offer my personal observations. :-)
