5'x10' FasTrack layout complete (for now!)

I like it, at least the final iteration. I've got a 6x11 table done and I'm going to see how this translates to RealTrax. The table is the first section of an 11x11 table, but since it's for a temporary layout, I'm looking for ways to be satisfied with just this first section. If RealTrax doesn't fit, I'll play with ScaleTrax, what I really want to use because of the flextrack. My slightly larger size should allow for adding some sidings or a small storage yard too.

That's an interesting track plan. I drew up a somewhat similar two-stage version with conventional O31 track to fit a 4'x 8'. 

 

 

Ace:

 

Yep, I pretty much tried to copy your plan but in FasTrack. Had to tweak it since there are no FasTrack O54 curves and the spacing around the 45 crossing can be fiddly - lots of trial and error and it never does link up in the SCARM program I used. What I loved about your plan is that you can reverse the direction of the trains with only two switches. Adds a lot of variety to the plan at a fairly low cost. Nice thing about FasTrack switches is you can run the train through them when they're in the wrong position and it won't derail so my kids can just set the trains running and not have to worry about switches. No way this would fit 4x8 in FasTrack, at least not without swapping out all my O36 curves for the new O31s which would be pricey.

I thought I'd try laying this out with FasTrack. I'm running up against the 50 piece limit (of the free version of AnyRail) so I've listed individual pieces that I overlaid with a single filler piece as a work-around.

 

This plan fits into 5'x 9'.

 

I played with Ace's plan in RR-Track. Nice plan Ace. I came up with this for Fastrack in a 5x10 size.

Using the new 031 curves on the inside, it is possible to build a Fastrack version in 4x8.

 

 

This base layout and the various alternative iterations are great for a small space.  Adding a connection to the top of the inside loops to complete the oval in these, would allow one to run 2 unattended trains for display purposes or when you just want to watch a couple of trains run.

I actually like this one:

 

 

due to it's unique used of wide outer curves and the possibility of running two trains:

 

1. Inner crossover
2. outer line with passing siding

In any event the biggest interest will be to use scenic dividers in the scenery so one does NOT see the train all the time. This gives the layout a mistique!

You guys have really gone to town with this plan. I've fit in the crossover for easy two-train operation like SeattleSUP showed earlier with O36 minimum curves, but this version is 5'x 9', a foot shorter.

  

I just noticed today that my AnyRail software has updated to include the new O31 FasTrack curves.

Here is a 6x11 MTH Real Trax version with 042 minimum radius.

 

 

Any chance you'd post or email me the RR-Track file and save me the trouble of entering it?

Dave, attached is the RR-Track file.

 

Thanks. Unfortunately, my version won't load it, I only have the ReakTrax library. But I saved it for when I buy the upgrade.

It's such a great plan because it has a lot of variety without needing a lot of expensive switches in its most basic form but can then be expanded to include sidings or two train operations as your budget allows. Not too many designs allow for that. I also like using the O72 and O36 curves - I think if you used all curves of the same radius it would be a little too symmetrical/monotonous looking. I plan to put tunnels and a plateau over the upper left O72 and O36 curves. Coming down off the plateau between the two curves will be a river so I can put a small bridge where the bottom 10" straight section is. I only added those two 10" sections because I had them left over.

I've tweaked this 5x9  O36 FasTrack version for somewhat better curve alignments at the upper left.

 

Ace,

   Great 5'x9' FasTrack layout, I really like it.  I will need to alter it some what for my

old Lionel 072 & 711 switches, with transition track, but I think I can make it work.

Serious little layout!

PCRR/Dave

Thanks for this post. I have been looking for something like this for my 4'X19'

footprint..

Between Ace's curve easments and my already on order 31" fasttrack curves. I think I can be happy building something incorporating Mike Donahue's 4x8 as a center piece.

If some one would publish a track listing for the 4x8 I would be greatful

Thanks Again   

I have attached the track listing for the 4x8 version. Hope this helps.

You guys rock! Can someone send me the file for fastrack. I have an 8 x 12 that I am just starting and would love to use this as my guide. Love this site 

 

steve