fastrack 7 x 11 layout

Looks nice - seems like you can get two trains running independently and have to switching action too. 

The only caution is that with a 7' width you will have to reach 42" from both sides provided that you have access. I know that I cannot reach that far.

If not have you considered some access hatches?

You might be too close on the left side, where the inside return loop gets close to the track coming off of the turnout.

I have to agree with Sean about decreasing the 7 foot sides at least down to 6 feet.  The easiest way to do that would be to eliminate the outside oval (eliminates 4 switches, too).  If you still desire elevation, you can now elevate the bottom part of your new outside-most oval.

I personally don't think the hatches idea will work with the amount of track and structures you plan in the middle of the layout.

Have fun with your grandkids.

Chuck

thanks for the suggestions. i am going to try to move the switches a little on the left side.  Maybe put lionel lift out truss bridge on the bottom of the outside loop and take out the pedestrian walkover, to give me better reach. the layout will be walk around.

Here’s my $.02 worth. It’s hard to determine if there are some clearance issues or not, but the section Ken mentioned needs checking. What software are you using? If it has a measuring tool, just check the center to center distance there. I think it’s enough, but it’s hard to tell with just a photo.

From what I can see, you’ll have trouble reaching some tracks in the reversing loops, but it looks like you can reach all the switches, so that’s a plus. I would design the framing so that, if needed, you could add an access hatch in the center of the reversing loop. Either way, I’d make the center a removable platform for the landscaping you have there. That way you can landscape it and just place it there rather that trying to landscape in place.

It looks like you can run 3 trains; outside oval, inside oval and reversing loops. I like that all trains can run the entire layout and there’s enough switching to make things fun, especially for the kids.

What track radius are you planning on using?

The track clearances seem ok for fitment on that left side (for the layout, too). Roadbed will clear. The catch will be overhang from the engine or cars when they happen to pass one another in those tight areas. 

Since it will be a walkaround, the center may the issue for reach. It should be infrequent. One of the extension grabbers would work except for an engine flop.

It appears that you are mixing curve diameters which is ok - I just found it odd that you did not do it like an easement - transitioning from a larger curve to a smaller diameter curve.

Lots of action and some fun routes - good plan. Does the software that you are using have a simulation mode to test the operation?

If you have room for a 7' x 11' layout, would you still have room for 8' x 12'?  You could make the outer loop a little bigger, relieving the potential space problem on the inside AND giving more room around the outside.  Of course, a drop-down or pop-out hatch in the center of the layout (or even a permanent opening) would be requirement.  While this may not be the best solution for us "more experienced and well-nourished" guys , I'm guessin' your grand kids are bound to love this design portion of the layout.

Mixed Freight posted:

If you have room for a 7' x 11' layout, would you still have room for 8' x 12'?  You could make the outer loop a little bigger, relieving the potential space problem on the inside AND giving more room around the outside.  Of course, a drop-down or pop-out hatch in the center of the layout (or even a permanent opening) would be requirement.  While this may not be the best solution for us "more experienced and well-nourished" guys , I'm guessin' your grand kids are bound to love this design portion of the layout.

It is a walk-around layout - increasing by a foot takes up a lot of perimeter - 

thanks for all of the suggestions. i have tried to make a couple of changes, including using 2 lift out bridges on the back of the layout to facilitate access to the middle.  I changed some of the curves to make it more like an easement where i could.  i also eliminated the switch on left side of inner loop and used a 060 switch near the inner loop for better clearance. i probably will tinker with a bit to see if i can eliminate some of the smaller pieces of track.  I have attached a revised layout with the fastrack part numbers.  Unfortunately, i can't increase the size of the layout at this time. maybe in the future.  i bargained hard for this much space. haha

I used anyrail for the layout and ran multiple trains on trainplayer without any issues.

thanks again for all the great suggestions

Your plan shows the time and effort you've put into it. If your primary interest is running, go for it. One of the items often listed as a "mistake" is covering the whole benchwork top with track aka "Spaghetti Bowl". This leaves very little room for buildings and scenery.

I did it too when I was in the early stages of planning my layout. Sometimes less, is more. What I would suggest is start with a two reversing loops folded dogbone with a passing siding.  Maybe something like this.

You also might want to consider stepping up to BT Lionchief Plus for additional realism and features.

I'm not that familiar with LCS operation - can you operate with no command base - just a handheld device, the app and the wifi module ?

Adirondack RR posted:

thanks for all of the suggestions. i have tried to make a couple of changes, including using 2 lift out bridges on the back of the layout to facilitate access to the middle.  I changed some of the curves to make it more like an easement where i could.  i also eliminated the switch on left side of inner loop and used a 060 switch near the inner loop for better clearance. i probably will tinker with a bit to see if i can eliminate some of the smaller pieces of track.  I have attached a revised layout with the fastrack part numbers.  Unfortunately, i can't increase the size of the layout at this time. maybe in the future.  i bargained hard for this much space. haha

I used anyrail for the layout and ran multiple trains on trainplayer without any issues.

 

thanks again for all the great suggestions

Your .pdf file attachment has divided your layout up into 144 individual pages.  At least, that's what I get.

Did you perhaps save it to print out full size on 8.5 x 11 or similar?

That’s what I got too.

sorry saw that too.  attached is a one page page pdf and jpg file