A Three-Train/Three-Loop Lionel FasTrack Layout on Two 4x8s, O36 Minimum

Optimized: reduced the section count ($) by eight sections.   Two curves are smoother near the O60 crossovers, with six O72 1/2 sections.  Alignment is more "perfect", no gaps, no compression at the section joints.

Construction of the cross-overs between the perimeter route and right inside circle, might be worth a look:

Nice and smooth flow, very easy for O36 equipment.

As usually happens with FasTrack, there are lots of little sections (1-3/8, 1-3/4, 4-1/2).  Lionel ought to package them by the dozen for a discount.  OR (better), Lionel should introduce a small expandable section (not kidding), that I have shown before, and is available in

Z gauge Rokuhan. and Kato N Unitrack 

And add it to their S FasTrack as well.   Lionel could make good bank with this section, and more folks would be inclined to build FasTrack layouts if it is easier to make fractional connections.  [And would save me tons of time😉, optimizing is the most time-consuming aspect of designing FasTrack layouts to tight specifications.]   I submitted the idea to Lionel by email - fingers crossed!

Added fourth yard track, these are all short, 25" or 22".

Ken,

I really like this plan. I’m embarrassed to ask but would you share a list of the track pieces? I’ve always been awful at track geometry and try as I might I haven’t quite figured this out.  

@The Southerner posted:

Ken,

I really like this plan. I’m embarrassed to ask but would you share a list of the track pieces? I’ve always been awful at track geometry and try as I might I haven’t quite figured this out.  

You will have to sort it yourself, this is how it is presented by the SW.  Chose the turnout type you like (remote or command).  Remember that the O60/O72 turnouts come with two 1-3/8" sections each (roadbed trimmed), so you need less of those separtely.

6-12014, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Straight 10". 18
6-12015, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Curve 18", angle 45º (O36) 14
6-12019, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Crossing 6". 90º 1
6-12022, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Curve 18", angle 22.5º (O36) 4
6-12023, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Curve 18", angle 11.25º (O36) 19
6-12024, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Straight 5". 3
6-12025, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Straight 4 1/2". 15
6-12026, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Straight 1 3/4". 31
6-12035, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Buffer/Bumper (Light) 5". 9
6-12042, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Straight 30". 4
6-12043, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Curve 24", angle 30º (O48) 6
6-12055, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Curve 36", angle 11.25º (O72) 6
6-12057, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Left turnout 13 1/8". (O60) (remote) 1
6-12059, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Buffer/Bumper 3 5/8". 2
6-12073, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Straight 1 3/8". 40
6-16828, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Left turnout 13 1/8". (O60) Command Control 2
6-16829, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Right turnout 13 1/8". (O60) Command Control 2
6-16832, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Wye turnout 12". (O72) Command Control 7
6-16834, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Curve 24", angle 15º (O48) 14
6-16835, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Curve 24", angle 7.5º (O48) 10
6-81946, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Right turnout 10". (O36) Remote/Command 7
6-81947, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Left turnout 10". (O36) Remote/Command 2
6-81948, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Right turnout 15". (O48) Remote/Command 1
6-81949, 0 Lionel FasTrack, Left turnout 15". (O48) Remote/Command 1

Thanks so very much. I think you should write a book on this. Publish some of your plans but also teach people how to think it through. You definitely have the chops for it!

I'm a new member and have been following all your FasTrack layouts posted on OGR. I think they are great and they inspired me to attempt my very own first track plan. I am still working on trying to get everything to connect on paper! I totally relate to your comment regarding the large number of mini sections of track one needs to complete a FasTrack plan. Check out my first post FASTRACK LAYOUT HELP? A CHALLENGE. 

@drtock posted:

I'm a new member and have been following all your FasTrack layouts posted on OGR. I think they are great and they inspired me to attempt my very own first track plan. I am still working on trying to get everything to connect on paper! I totally relate to your comment regarding the large number of mini sections of track one needs to complete a FasTrack plan. Check out my first post FASTRACK LAYOUT HELP? A CHALLENGE. 

Thanks Drtock.   I commented in your design thread.

How about this track plan on two 5ft X 9ft tables?  It would leave room on the perimeter for scenery and keep the trains away from the layout edges.

Charlie

Thanks Charlie. At this time on the track plan the platforms shown are an approximate guide for the space I have. You are totally right, in the final plan two 5x9 tables would be perfect. alan

This is a great plan and similar to this other one of yours I bookmarked awhile back.  https://ogrforum.ogaugerr.com/...h-menard-s-buildings

Would it be possible to show what it would look like in RealTrax with O42 on the outside loop and O31 on the inside loop?

I am hoping to build this once my daughter moves out of her nursery.  And the day draws nigh.

Ken Love this layout. Is it possible to post the anyrail version? Thanks 

@Adirondack RR posted:

Ken Love this layout. Is it possible to post the anyrail version? Thanks 

Glad you like it!  Here is the AnyRail file for this track plan:

Ken,
Many years ago when I was planning my layout I read about easements in a Model Railroad Tips and Trips book.  So when I finally built my current layout, using FastTrack, I made the easements using the following curves. An 048curve, a 036curve, a048 curve, a 036curve and a 048curve. Seems to me this method results in fewer pieces of track used, fewer joints and quieter operation. Is there a big difference in curve radius  in the method you use and curve radius method I have used?

BTW Ken I enjoy reading your layout posts and articles in OGR. Keep up the good work!

@ncdave posted:

Ken,
Many years ago when I was planning my layout I read about easements in a Model Railroad Tips and Trips book.  So when I finally built my current layout, using FastTrack, I made the easements using the following curves. An 048curve, a 036curve, a048 curve, a 036curve and a 048curve. Seems to me this method results in fewer pieces of track used, fewer joints and quieter operation. Is there a big difference in curve radius  in the method you use and curve radius method I have used?

BTW Ken I enjoy reading your layout posts and articles in OGR. Keep up the good work!

Thanks Dave!   I am using more small sections to more closely approximate O42 for those compound curves.  In case someone has O42 limited trains, these can run the outside perimeter route.   Yes, more sections (and more $).   The other reason is for a smoother curvature that better parallels the O36 curves.

Now here is the REAL challenge! Where would some Scenic Barriers be placed so its not just looking at all track!

I envision a mountain with logging in the upper left, small rural town in the lower left, and a city in the upper right. 

Roughed-in some terrain ideas:

Some structure ideas, a pond, roads:  Steam loco service facility uses one of the yard tracks.