Hopefully My Final Track Plan

I like it.....my frame of reference: I'm a loop runner and get pleasure and relaxation from seeing the trains go round n round.....Sitting in the middle of this layout watching trains would be great for me.

Peter

It looks like a good use of the available space.  As a loop runner myself, I agree with the previous comment.  And if one wants some operation, it looks like there would be plenty of opportunities to add sidings.  

What type of scenery is planned?

I think it's a great track plan !!!

Alex 

Nice plan.  However, unless I'm missing something, you have two reversing loops but you can only change the direction of a train going in the clockwise direction.

Looks like you need to move the crossover near the shopping loop to the left so you can use that loop to reverse trains going in the counter-clockwise direction.  

WILDMARY, nice track plan. I like the way the different areas are laid out.......Paul

Loops are great....I love them and my old layout (Run 255) showcased the fact that loops are good!!

My new layout (under construction) is once again loops (folded dogbones, more interest), but loops neverless.

I would try to include some "on layout" storage tracks, longer passing sidings to store other trains to cycle thru the journey around the layout. It certainly looks like that would work in a few places without winding up with a table full of track.

Looks good, keep us posted.

Donald

Nick,

I tried a mock up to see what you would run into on the build. Sorry for the lengthy reply, but I wanted to put out forth what I discovered.

1. The biggest issue is the switch complex - the stuff doesn't fit - may have to move one crossover pair up near the farm. The Ross switches are long, compared to GG.
2. Using sectional pieces requires a lot of cutting. 1/2 turns to get the gentle loops, fitment cuts for lengths, etc. It may be just as easy to use all GG flex.
3. You have to decide for table space if the loop around the pillar is O54 inside and O63 outside  or if the O54 outer changes to O42 inside around the pillar. Another reason for all flex.
4. The angle for lift bridge area needs to be adjusted and the approaches cut to match the angle. Another reason for all flex.
5. GG nor Ross make an O36. Another reason for all flex. This may be a little tight to bend even with the GG. The O42 could be a tough one also.

Your sketch wandered on the end lines.

Here's a snip of the mock up. I sized the drawing as a background image and built within it. You can see by the rulers it's a 17' x 12' space.

It's a nice design and not an easy build. I really think an Atlas sectional with Ross switches would be a lot easier. They have the radius and the fractional curves for what you need. More $, yes. Less time.

Using the sweeper curve around the pillar really saves aisle space. Creates an interesting build challenge.

I used Ross 11° for the cross-overs of the mains to set a 4.5" center rail spacing. I couldn't decide what would work for getting to the O36 r-loops.

It will be a nice layout. Give it some more thought and planning time. It's almost there.

Like the Layout plan!

Moonman I really appreciate you taking the time to analyze my plan.  Most of the GG track will be flex so I should be able to make the Ross switches work.  Once I get the grid down I'll take a look at the 036 r-loops to possibly change them to 042.  I have a few locomotives that would be very iffy on 036.  I know it's not going to be an easy build but I have nothing but time on my hands.  My wife has been pushing me to get started on this.

Cant wait to see it started!

Nick,

Ok, the 6 switches for the crossovers and r-loops are now 4 - O42 and 2-O42 wyes. It doesn't mess with your aisle a lot. Move some of your scenery spots and perhaps make a trolley loop where the O36 was. O31/32 will fit nicely or Streets with O21.

It only takes a small amount of table adjusting. You need to work on the bridge angle in front of the door to match the track angle.

I would go with the mixed O42-O54 around the pillar and O54-O63 around that for the O42 mainline.

This is on 4.5" centers set by the 11° crossovers for the main.

Whaddya think?

The pencil and paper are still good. Don't sell yourself short. Look at your result. Nice design for the space. The software just permits a pre-build without doing it.

WOW Carl!!  I can see you're having fun with this and it's certainly appreciated.  It changes my whole thought process about the passenger/freight station and airport.  I need to get my brain around your changes.  Your ideas are great and really don't increase the overall cost.  Thanks for taking this under your wing.