Help first layout 2 4x8 tables

I would opt for the L shape. More potential track plans and flexibility with that configuration.

Download SCARM software. It's free up to a certain amount of track pieces. After that it's reasonable to purchase the license if necc. Once you settle on a plan, SCARM will give you a parts list so you can order the rest of the track, etc.

If you are just starting out then a pair of folded ovals with switches connecting the two loops together would be a decent start. You could do an outer oval and the inner track could be a folded figure 8. Realtrax is a good system to use for what you want to do.

A quick google images search yielded this and search the forum, lot's of great track plans to be found.

Keep us posted and feel free to ask away. Plenty of us here to help.

Bob

How about sitting with your son at a table, let him draw a track plan and critique it?  Tack the track in place and play with it.  Change it as the circumstances warrant.  Add buildings later after you both agree what kind and where they could be. Ameri-Towne buildings may be built as designed or bashed.  He may be able do to one by himself.  John

Thank you both. I will check it out. I didn’t think about that. We will give it a go and see what happens.

This was my old layout. It used both realtrax and fastrack, lots of possibilities with an "L".

The outer 036 loop of fastrack could be replaced with 042 realtrax.

Here is a link that has many track plans for a variety of table sizes. Look them over to get ideas. The L shape will give you and your son a lot of flexibility in design, accessories and scenery. Keep us update.

http://thortrains.us/

Building an O42 loop on a 4' wide table is a recipe for disaster.  You will have so little space between the outside of your track and the edge of the table that any accidental derailment might send your equipment over the edge and to the floor.  But, if you must do that to accomplish your goals, attach some raised, stiff edging to the sides of the tables to protect your equipment.  Only about a 2 inch rise (if strong enough material is used) would be required for protection.

Chuck

Check out this thread by one of our resident layout designers and it may give you some ideas. It's in Fastrack, but could be easily converted to RealTrax.

A Three-Train/Three-Loop Lionel FasTrack Layout on Two 4x8s, O36 Minimum | O Gauge Railroading On Line Forum (ogaugerr.com)