I wanted to build a Lionel 8x8 layout and had a nice track plan but, I couldn't reach the middle of table. I had plenty of room for a yard and operating accessories and a double track main line. I know it really pushing in 2 4x8 tables shaped like a L. But if have an track plan recommendations I'm all ears.
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Maximum reach is about 3 feet. Put a pop up panel in the middle. You can't lay track on the panel but you can cover it up and disguise it with landscape
No layout plans, just avoid switches on the back and make sure the tack is well allinged and you should rarely have to reach the back of a 4 foot deep table. Or, just put the table on casters so you can roll it out of the corner solves the issue. just make sure they have good locks on the casters.
Here is a thread on an "L" layout from two 4X8s: L from two 4X8
And another thread on "L" shaped plans: L shaped plans
hey Southern,
Where was/is the 8 x 8 going to be located? Floating with all side access, 1 wall with 3 side access , etc.?
You can fit a 28" square hatch in the center. If you make a scooter seat tool or use something like an automotive creeper, you would be able to work under the layout if it at a height that clears your head in a sitting position.
Alex Mueller had a nifty method for lifting the hatch and locking it up and away from the hole. Check out the 3/18/11 post for the hatch and scooter. The Hidden Pass Junction build has a lot of nice techniques.ie. framing, legs
A higher table and access hatch and you can build the 8 x 8.
The L shape is limiting in my opinion. A corner square of the width dimension keeps the legs even and helps with the track design. So, an 8 x 8 L is a 4 x 4 corner with two 4 x 6 legs. (sections or modules) A 5' width opens up an O48/O36 double main with FasTrack.
The table is located in the middle of a spare room with plenty of room to walk around it.
southern Railfan posted:The table is located in the middle of a spare room with plenty of room to walk around it.
Then, I suggest that you do the 8 x 8 island put an access hatch in it. Are you ok with 42" - 45" table height?
I'm curious about the room size. How big is it, how much of it can you use and where are any obstacles, like the entry door? If you are/were considering an L-shape made with two 4x8 tables, that suggests the room is at least 12' x something and I'm curious why you aren't considering an around-the-room style layout with a duck-under or preferably a lift-out bridge or something.
Here is an 8X8 design, where the two tables can be easily separated. Put one or both on castors, and your access problems are solved. The terrain "breaks" along the 4X8 boundaries, and the track is connected at just two places so is easy to connect/disconnect and align.
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