JD2035RR, Thanks for your responses.
- I will be operating conventionally. I have two ZW transformers and 1 LW transformers but have not finalized whether I will use more than one for the layout.
- I cut the layout down to 5 foot by 9 foot so I can get to all sides. The support framework is also on rollers so I can move it (up to 18 inches in all directions) if necessary to get greater access to one side.
- As I stated previously, I tried to include as many operating accessories as I could so my grandson could push buttons to make things "work". I tried to include more/longer sidings but could not figure out how to work them into the layout. I kept running into restrictions on spacing between tracks to give access to both sides of accessories. The 97 Coal Elevator needs 12 inches between tracks while the 456 Coal Ramp/ 397 Coal Loader need 7 3/4 inch spacing. The 164 Lumber Loader needs 10 3/4 inches between tracks.
- In order to use the the 456 Coal Ramp, the 397 Coal Loader, and the 497 Coal Loader, I need to make a coal car the last one so it can be reversed onto their respective tracks. Is their a way in this configuration to put one coal car at the end, empty/fill the car, drop the car somewhere and repeat the operation with another coal car? I need to think more about how these operations can be accomplished without the ability to change the direction of the engines in both directions.
- Does anyone have any suggestions as to how to add elevated sections of track to this layout?
- Are their other locations where sidings could be added?
Since this is my first attempt at a layout design, I appreciate everyone's suggestions.
