New layout by a noob

AWESOME!!!!  Thank you!!!!  I have been at it all day.  Need a break.  But its coming around great!!!

Just frustrated, I have a Weaver RS-3 Diesel that keeps running off the tracks at the switches.  I have the LIRR anniversary passenger train that seems to handle it better.  I need to build a little control panel for the switches and transformer.  I am not thrilled with it.  doesn't seem to be giving enough juice to the engine.  But I am new and still figuring it all out.  MY kids love it!!!

If it's an older WEaver, it requires an 042 curve.

if you don't have the manuals that came with the switches here's a link to the MTH instructions.

http://www.mthtrains.com/sites...ction/40as17023i.pdf

Hope this helps out.

Jerry

I bought it in 2010. 

Thanks for all your responses!

Thank you!!!!

You've done a nice job with the layout. Separate constant power to the turnouts is the best way to go. If you feed them 14VAC they should function well.

You are doing well.

You may wish to add feeder wires to each area of the Layout to keep the trains from slowing down while far away from the power pack.

Doesn't the Z1000 have a 14v accessory port? Power the switches from that port using the instructions from the switch User Guide and accessories , if they are in the plan.

Nice layout! Reversing loop and sidings add fun.

Keep "Noobin" things are looking good.

Welcome to the forums;

Moonman is correct, the Z-1000 has a 14VAC accessory power port on the brick.

I use that to power all my RealTrax switches and they operate fine at any track voltage.

Just remove the jumper and run power to the second screw from the end as shown in the instructions.

Thanks everybody for your kind words!  Its coming together!  This is very addicting!  Thank you for all the help!

Great layout! Looks like another reverse loop on the camera end would give you continuous operation without having to back up to turn around.

Magoo, looks like you're on the right track for a life time of fun. 

A RealTrax switch that humms or Buzzes when you try to throw it is usually fighting the anti-derail function.

Cause; The outside rails are both making contact with the rail ends on the switch. The rails that form a small V are not supposed to touch the track they connect to.

If they do the switch sees it as a train coming on that track and switches to that track. If you try to switch to the other track the anti-derail fights the change.

A lack of level between the switch and the approaching track can cause this as can a slipping rail on the switch. I place a bit of electrical tape on the end of the switch rail to avoid this issue.

Thanks Russell!  I have a feeling thats what the issue is.  When I changed the layout a bit this happened.  I guess I have to play around with it and use your suggestion.  I am just a little confused where exactly to place the tape?  I am also confused as to exactly what kind f toggle switches I need for the lock out and exactly how to wire them.  I went on your link.  That is one impressive layout!

jj;

Pull the switch loose from the tracks on the diverging end.

Then look at the connectors under the rails. One of each set does not have a contact.

Put the tape on the end of those rails. There are 2 of them.

You can also blob a bit of hot glue or RTV on the rail ends, anything to prevent the rails from touching.

Not sure what you want the toggle switches for.

I use them to power sidings off and reduce run time on engines and lighted cars bulbs.

I use lighted toggles from Radio Shack. There are less expensive places but I wanted to match those on hand.

Simply put a piece of tape over the contact and end of the center rail on a piece of track near the switch. Then Run a new wire from the Z controller Red output to the switch. Then run a wire from the switch to the siding center rail.

After that the switch will control power to the siding.

Now, this can cause issues when you go to DCS, so drop me a line if you do.

I have enclosed a picture of a different angle.  I have added an MTH flood lights on the corners.  I have placed 2 Smart signals from Z-Stuff.  I have also added a RMT Long Island Railroad water tower in the other corner.  I am still planning on having a power plant with smoke stacks and try to get a passenger platform for my Lionel M7.  This is becoming very addicting!  What was once strictly for my kids has become my new obsession.  I am still in the process of having my neighbor paint the logo for the MTA on the wall.  Its coming together!  Thank you everybody for being so kind and helpful! 

It's coming along nicely, Jim.

Flex? Do you mean pivot, swing etc.? A sharp edge can cause binding, bent pivot axel, tight pivot rivets. I've limited the vertical travel with zip ties to keep O switchers running on 0-27. Same on some with small diameter rollers to keep them from dropping into gaps on an old Sakai 90 crossover causing pole vaulting! Just limiting the lead roller on K-line passenger cars I do before I even try to run, they dig out my center bus clips if on Super O. Different spacing between rollers due to engine style and size, different lengths of arms(O-36 can be longer than 027 etc.), roller width, and all the track differences over the years, all make each problem unique. You might try some conductive lube, or replace the spring yourself. Even hot rod it, swap pickups if you can.      

Thats exactly what I am talking about!!!!  WOW!  I am going to look into this!  Thank you!

Magoo - looks great so far - only problem I see is once your loco enters your reverse loop it can't go in the opposite direction.

Yes, that is an issue.  My friend did the homework on what the design of the layout should be.  I think the plan is once I get my bearings straight and I get more confident with this I was thinking we will expand the layout.  The ultimate would be have a plan in place for like a bridge tressel to connect the two layouts!!!  But that is a few years away.

I am still learning.  If you have any ideas to alter what I have done without me losing more of my hair I am all ears!

Thanks!

Magoo, FYI the learning never ends, the build seldom ends. Just don't forget its ok to say good enough for now. Your taste in how you run may change too. Some tire of loops and concentrate on switching (Im still very "loopy" almost 50 years of it) 

Very true!  Thanks for the insight!  This has become an obsession!

Ok, after spending way too much money and the fact that I am now obsessed with my layout and all that goes with it I have few questions.  With a layout like mine, I think I have too much rolling stock.  I am now an official nut on the subject of all that's intermodal.  So I have refocused the layout to consist of having passenger station for my  Lionel m7 and now having a sort of industrial port depot for my intermodal Cars.  I have started to realize that as much as I love my current layout and happy it's running fine I now feel the urge to had more to it.  I am thinking adding an additional siding or maybe (divorce possible) expanding???  If I expand it won't be for sometime but the thought of adding something to the existing layout is certainly possible.  I guess what I am saying is I am getting way ahead of myself but see areas of potential improvement.  Any thoughts is greatly appreciated!  

O.K. You "have too much rolling stock" I have trouble with the concept I have about 160, 20 locos, but my Gramps had shelves that were about 4x70ft or more. He had over 160 locos! H3ll, he had more than twenty electrics alone. So I have been building some recently for a layout near your size (find the "what I did on my layout today" thread, a good one to follow too). So how about a set of color coordinated shelves to cover the area under the layout? Moving the X-brace to sides and back and using a small brace on the front legs for side to side stability would free the underside for a little storage. Maybe shallow shelves hinged like doors? A wheel to help them swing easy? I suggest a kick molding base, and raised lowest shelf so things don't get kicked, 4-5" raise. It will add a very finished look and supply you with convenient storage for your stock not in use at the time...oops, low battery, Im out till later. 

OOOOOOHHHH, I like that!  And Damm! You got yourself some trains!!!  Impressive collection!  I may have to tell my wife that I am not as bad as she tell mes I am!!!  I have added a shelf to the wall where I have some rolling stock not in use.  I like your idea.  The scary thing I was thinking of expansion!!!  I know, I am a noob!  I should just enjoy what I have.  My ADD is telling me go bigger!  I think for the time being I will follow your advise and as I get more and more buildings and scenery added I will look into modifying underneath the layout for storage.  Thanks for your reply!!!

That was my next suggestion, buildings! Also "planed" planning, and searching, can help eat up time, allowing you to build the hobby piggy bank between fits of spending. Have you searched for local train shows yet? I love attending the smaller shows, get there kinda early, as railroaders tend to be early risers, and some sellers pack up by noon. I skip "fee for early entrance" unless I am looking for hens teeth.  The number of them increases greatly during the colder months, almost zero in the summer near me. Be pre-paired NOT to buy, and just maybe you wont spend every last dime. PS I can only take credit for the "doors" idea, low shelves, pretty common. Have you seen Christopher's layout?  https://ogrforum.ogaugerr.com/t...05#20717517878618005  

Ok, call me crazy but I am thinking of adding another siding or trying to figure out a way to add some more excitement?  Any help or suggestions greatly appreciated!

A point to point trolley line? An elevated line? It could be set up to wait for clear tack too. More switches would get you another reverse loop. Operating accessories have kept me smiling over 40 years! My favorites in order, Rocket gantry/pad, or remote control crane, coal elevator, saw mill, culvert pipe loader, yard tower w/man, milk/ice/boxes, bubbling oil derrick & tower, news stand w/dog, luggage station, and cows/sheep/horses. The coal elevator, culvert pipe loader, and sawmill, can be used with automatic dump cars for endless loops of hands free loading and unloading. So can the animals but the vibrating figures can be a pain. Loading automatic box cars by hand can be too. But the fun factor is there. Operating scenery like the derricks, and yard tower, can add action you don't have to worry about controlling directly. The ultimate accessory for me were the rocket orientated ones, my gantry doubled as a loading crane too. Now there is a remote control crane to load your cars with. If I were to guess correctly, I think it might become my new favorite accessory if I were to get one.  Any how I am  trying out SCARM a free software program. This was done just screwing around trying to lean it. Its Lionel 0-36, they don't have MTH track, I think you could produce something similar. A 100% elevated line could be any shape.(and a crane would be nice for freight transfer.)

Magoo, I wasn't sure what type of action you were after, so I addressed it all. I get the crowded bit, I was really just playing with the program. And I run a lot of steam so adding another reverse loop would be important for me.

 Don't under estimate the power of trolley with kids. The old Lionel bump and go street cars and maintenance vehicles are mega fun for kids.  And if elevated vs integrated, like above, can be simple and removed easily. I think the coal or saw mill setups are the most cost effective "bangs", till you can "swing" for a freight or construction crane, or till you can "lift" your wallet enough to afford the intermodal crane. Other than adding a loop somehow, to get two loops, would be my only other suggestion.      

All Great points!  I just dont understand why there are some things that are readily available yet some things are non existent!  I want to get a crane!  And I so want the intermodal crane!!  But it all have costs!  Thanks for your help!

Supply and demand. Saturate the market then, wait till its gone, and see if we beg for more, that's been the game for a looong time. Lionel did make an operating remote control intermodal crane in the 90s, there is a nice one on Ebay "buy now" for about the price of a new locomotive. Non-train remote control cranes are a collecting/operating niche themselves, and finding one in a scale usable with O, shouldn't be too much of a challenge.

Ok, after fooling around with the ideas and still debating my wants and needs I have decided on two things.  1) My layout consists of two trains, passenger and freight.  I am thinking that adding another siding will help separate the two.  I already have two sidings but in the not too distant future I will be adding another freight engine.  So my thinking is I will use the CSX train for the intermodal container rolling stock I am presently collecting and when my new switcher comes in November or December I will use that to move the Long Island themed rolling stock I presently own.

2) I am thinking about having a reverse Loop.  My only conundrum is where do I put it?  I am trying to figure it out using a picture of my layout of how and where.  Or do I connect the far siding to the turn and have an inner loop and an outer loop and just add the siding where the track bi-sects the layout in the middle?

Any thoughts and ideas would be greatly appreciated.

Magoo have you tried out Anyrail or SCARM free track design programs. The realtrax is not in them. I think MTH sells a program. But some measuring, pick its size equal, and you should be able to come very close I would think. Ill see if I can repost that photo if you want. 

Adriatic, any help would be greatly appreciated.  I just downloaded scarm program on my work computer.  I have no idea what I am doing.  At home I have a mac.  I have the program from MTH but its not compatible with the MAC.  I am looking at the picture to get ideas and I am trying to figure out what works and what will not.  But I have to first learn how to use the Scarm program.  Thanks for all of your help!

Here' s posts by Mixey below, he is the author. It seems it is designed for Windows, Anyrail too, but I think you should read this paying note to Moonmans posts in particular, later a post by Mixey about the WINE program. You may be able to use it after all, maybe. Make your needs known by posting a Mac request too.

  In the meantime, if I had some solid dimensions on table size, MTH track dimensions, track you have, wall clearances, max kick-out and overhangs, loco & car lengths, etc. All listed in one place, or close to it. I wouldn't mind helping by "virtual building" and posting for you. It may not be speedy, or exact, because it wont be MTH, but I think we could get it close. Image files, real, or from programs, could be used by you, with "paint"(sorry Im mac illiterate), or similar program, to convey your ideas back to me. I think with some searching you will find a free mac program, but I cant suggest one over another, and I might not be able to run it on a windows/ibm format to help, but its worth a shot. https://ogrforum.ogaugerr.com/t...ello-from-the-author

As/if we go on, remember, I don't own plastic type track, nor do I do a lot of switching, or point to point. I'm a postwar Lionel looper, 40+ in conventional, Grandson of a truly serious collector. Some knowledge rubbed off. I don't consider myself an expert at anything, but like it proved when Im wrong(stubborn). I have played with MTH, TMCC, DCC, Digitrax, and more but never owned digital controls. No cab locos, and only a few diesel switchers I seldom run. A GG1, Virg. rectifier and steamers do my bidding. I have some electronics repair experience, but that was work("mouse house pizza/games") it included board, and power supply repair, spanned about 6rys before changing fields. Similar but not the same as train stuff. My schooling in electronics is zilch. I approach things logically, and its always worked out. Ive read at OGF for about 2 yrs, joined in the spring, couldn't resist any longer

An elevated addition, or an offset figure 8 to make one loop larger are my 1st thoughts. Grades for an elevated will require working the throttle more if in conventional. Dark grey you might be able to get the loco reversed by switching, but not the whole train. With a turn out added (yellow) your fig 8 is completed.  

This is what I had posted earlier

Just a note: Your name makes me smile every time I see it. "Mr Magoo" was one of my favorite cartoons growing up, Im a bit jealous too.

oops try this!

oooooohhhhhh, I like that!  I like the idea about having the track connected and adding another two switches!  I guess I need that cross track piece where your able to cross through???? ( I am so ignorant with the terms, so please be patient)  I am thinking about doing this in stages.  The reason is the wife!  What started out for just the kids has turned out to be my mad obsession!  The first thing i would like to do is possibly adding a siding to the track where it comes down the middle, have an O30 switch going left right after the other switch at the loop, and adding track to about the end with a bumper.  I will be able to add more trains to the table and yet keep some usable space for model building and such.

I like the diagram you made, I just dont have the funds to purchase all of the switches needed.  I like your ideas!  I was having some severe issues trying to see what I can and cant do!  I want to build some buildings preferbly a train passenger platform and would ultimately love to have a Intermodal container staging area!  I originally wanted a power plant with working smoke stack but there is nothing for O-scale!  

I really like the ideas you have come up with!  Today is my last day off for awhile so I was thinking of farting around with some stuff.

The nickname has been with me since I was a grade schooler!  I am 42 now and it has yet to leave me.  It all started with an upset coach and who couldn't spit out my last name fast enough so he said MAGOO!  Its been with me since!    Thanks for all of your assistance!  This site is truly amazing!

I have always had Macs and I use Railmodeller.  It works very well and was not expensive at all.  I do not know how much it is today.  It is easy to use and very quick.

http://www.railmodeller.com

Going to give it a shot!  Thanks!!!

My teacher once told us this about computers, Apple = intuitive for the user, IBM(windows) = better user control. I still think it applies today. Just sayin.

The diagram is a bit of a spaghetti bowl, Im just trying to "grease the brain" with ideas. Until you have detailed scenery locked down, it can change in an afternoon.

I don't know your situation with the wife and don't mean to pry, But...... 

How my Gramps got by, till Grandma joined in, was a hobby/shopping fund equally split.

Eventually Grandma laid claim to ALL 1800's trains, and insisted on them being the only trains around the Christmas tree. Find out which ones your wife thinks look cool too, ask for her opinion on some things, if you can do so without lighting the fuse. Make it known when you use wallet constraint. Find someone "married" into trains too, split a couples evening between trains and ?, who knows. A mistake Gramps did make was being too involved with my Dads set when he was a boy, "too fast" "that doesn't go there" etc. The "rivet counting" drove my Dad away from trains. Gramps lightened up for the younger kids, and Grandkids, we are all owners of at least one set, but my Dad never played with any of us. Cheaper trains belonging to the kids themselves aren't a bad idea. Don't forget to ask before using them, if you expect the same

An industrial building with stacks is not too hard, I cant reference one, but they are out there. Seuthe (spelling?) makes smoke units small enough to fit in HO or even smaller things. Larger smoke units w/wo fans can be had new and used. Check this use of smoke units out https://ogrforum.ogaugerr.com/t...moking-stacks?page=3

Also remember, hobbies dont have timeclocks. Some guys plans aren't fully realized for years. Like, many years 5-10 or longer. 

Oh nicknames, Im Butch. I looked much like Butch from the Little Rascals, and when young, I would dot your eye, and take your toy, if you didn't share. Not greedy, I liked to share my toys, and would take care of yours much better than my own.

Very well said!  The wife just likes to break my chops!  LOL  I have too many hobbies now or so she says.  I do have to lighten up a bit with the kids.  My 7 year old is very interested but is equally interested in the computer.  My 4 year old likes it as well put lacks the understanding of trains do break!

Yeah, I have moved away from the industrial setting and now figure having a sort of intermodal depot setting that may work.  And your right.  I was in the car driving to the hobby store to buy the necessary stuff to modify the layout and I held back.  I may need to stand still a bit before I can go forward.  Your words and wisdom have been very helpful.  I still may do something soon, just need to play with the ideas in my head!

Thanks for all your help and if any other ideas some way comes around I will be grateful!

Unless the reversing bit is driving you nuts, ignore it for now. Teach/let that 7yr old switchman re-rail things, while the yardmaster watches with his feet up.     

Find a crane, build a crane, *whatevaaa! You keen do wut you wan*. If not now......ask Santa! I think you really need this to satisfy the itch. And the track plan might have to change some to have it. Heck, the way it looks it could be an investment(dont count on it) Find out the measurements of that Lionel one at least. Then you can map out its home(scratch,scratch). It seems like the only buy option anyway. Any modeling skills? Building a working stationary one, really might not be so hard. I'm telling you those scale crane guys use kits that work. Half cinderblocks, +sand, lifted nicely. Most I've seen are tower style, but I bet you can at least find a decent claw assembly to build from, or copy ideas off of.  

*Miley & Eric Cartman both.

Some reading you should do https://ogrforum.ogaugerr.com/t...ork-as-yard-trackage

ON IT!

  Thanks!

What engine did you get? The coolest station platform Ive seen is the Knapford station for Thomas the train (Bachmann), but it is ho scale. I wonder if its big enough(wide) to raise it so an O train could fit. Even if only the roof could be used it would be cool. I saw a layout with 4 or six of them de-Thomas-ed. All that glass, WOW! was it sharp.

jj,

I think the suggested bump and go trolley track on an upper level would work out well on your layout.  It can be located above all the other tracks supported with homemade uprights (as in un-$$$)

The MTH bump and go's work great and cost about $50.  I set mine up with a pushbutton so that the kids hit the button and the trolley goes out and back, then stops, waiting for the next button press.

The MTH M&M's trolley is also bump and go and would work on the same PB-operated elevated track... again, only about $50.

Enjoy!

Ed

I am going to try to build my own.  I figured it can't be that hard???

I placed an order for this:

http://mthtrains.com/content/30-20194-1

And then I think its safe to say I am done for awhile but the elevated train option certainly interest's me!!!

Hey I missed this, must have accidently tossed the email notification. Hows it working out for you?

So far so good!  I was able to smooth out some spots on the layout.  I then vacuumed the tracks and cleaned them.  Didn't want any metal residue messing up the works.  I am still on the fence on what i should do with the few sections of track that has a small gap.  Once again, thank you for your ideas and help!

Sorry, but I'm still a little confused on just how big the gaps are. Big enough to put a dime or penny in or just a knife blade?

I would say a dime.  The trains go over them ok.  I am looking at maybe a total of 5 sections of track that are affected.  As a matter of fact the trains go over them fine.  I had some track that were connected fine but the spurs would just stop the train in its tracks when I would run the loco slow.  A quicker pace it would just go right over it.  

Hey is that intermodal loader on the shelf new? Any how I saw this and thought Id give you a heads up https://ogrforum.ogaugerr.com/topic/lionel-accessories

That does seem pretty large. I only have a 6x8 oval with 1 siding from last year's Christmas layout, but any gaps are much smaller than that, not even knife size. The only problem I had was the frog rails shorting out and a minor adjustment of the siding track seems to have fixed that. I plan on adding more track for this year's layout, so I hope I don't run into a problem.

Yes it is!  I saw another post that someone purchased that and uses that as there primary loader/unloader of containers.  This is the link,https://ogrforum.ogaugerr.com/topic/the-intermodal-primer-lets-see-some-intermodal-pics?reply=2415514336546417#2415514336546417

I still need to make some scenery and still trying to figure out where I am going to house my intermodal loading/unloading.  Its a pretty cool little tractor!

I am very interested in getting a intermodal crane like the one for sale.  I just heard it doesnt work well with the MTH Railking Husky Stacks?????  

Thanks for looking out!  Like my guardian angel!  

Well, I think my day dreaming has gotten the best of me.  I am thinking of an idea and I need opinions.  The plan is to elevate my passenger train.  Have it running on some trestle.  I figure if there was a way to have it as basic as possible i can keep that running separate from my freight line.  The dream includes and elevated train platform and maybe including a figure 8.  So my question is can this be done on my layout?  How difficult?  And pros and cons would be greatly appreciated!!  

Hey Magoo, I see more new stuff. Is that a diesel filling station?

  I love my no grade, elevated, "warped oval" No concerns but weight for me. My 6.5lb GG1, and other heavy cast trains will bend my newer tubular 0-27 in no time. I didn't lay a support board under the track yet. But my little plastic docksides, "The General", and my switching diesels, love to pull small passenger consists around it. They can even be caught with a milk car, box car, gondola, or tanker delivery in tow behind the passenger cars on occasion. The weight your MTH track supports well by itself? I don't know. Test it out, watch for twisting or bowing, you may be fine. Your trestles will have to fit between your present tracks without being hit. Building a custom, "track directly over track" set of trestles might help, they can span a big gap for better placement. An oval leaves a bigger straight area for a platform, and the fig-8 will eat open area in the middle of the lower deck. To play without track purchase, you could rough-build in cardboard, hardboard, or wood for "testing the look". If it works out, you can keep building off it(if its not cardboard). Good looking homemade "cement" arch and pillar supports are easy to pull off with wood, and textured spray paint. Pillars use less space, and look very modern. I like I-beam spans and "boxes" best, over/under El style makes me drool. Firmly connect all the trestles to the layout! An elbow bump, or even derail into a loose support will twist things up real quick.

If you need another transformer, a low power transformer in conventional will keep it from ever becoming a missile. You are about to add a six inch drop to a possible high speed "big air jump". On multi-level, multi track layouts, train wrecks pile up fast, and furiously, as one train takes out another. Introducing a train from above, produces stuff worthy of Gomez Addams's sweet dreams. 

Have been busy so I missed this, and haven't slept yet so Im not going to attempt too much thought today. Ill get back with ya more after I meditate(sleep). An expansion with a grade huh! Well Lionel risers were at about a 4.5%grade I think, but that's a steep climb. 2%, 2.5%, maybe 3% grade max would be much better. 2% is more prototypical for sure but takes more room. Finding out how well your engines can climb and how much they can pull while climbing could be a useful experiment if you have enough extra track kicking about. 

Even deserts have bridges and elevation changes, so a mountain isn't a necessity. Tons of trees and brush make great "fillers" on a perfectly flat layout (watch your dollar stores around X-mas for low buck treasures). A mild elevation along the back will add a lot of depth visually too. Even if its a 1/2 inch, it will probably show more than you expected. Buy popsicles, or order some Oriental food (for the sticks of course.... Ok, maybe not just for the sticks)  and experiment with riser placement.

 I experienced bad vertigo for the first time, the evening before last, while on a paved road bridge going over some RR tracks near me. I was riding my bike and decided to see what the view was like at the top while "on foot" instead of driving in a car. Once clear of the trees, and bushes lining the sides of the road, and the 10 foot wide sidewalk, I had a good view. But I couldn't switch my focus, from high to low and then back again, quickly enough to still ride. I had to walk up and back down. Only time I felt like that before was on the Chicago Skyway. Very steep, and too easy to see through. Funny.. effects of heights normally aren't an issue at all for me. I used to climb maintenance ladders twice that height carrying tools, and have worked on the edge of fourteen story roofs no problem! Riding a bike on a paved 50ft bridge?... Oops..problem!

Very Cool Wall Graphics by Adriatic, well done...... Congratulations..... 

I just posted in the "what did you do to your layout" thread.  I have added the MTH o-72 WYE switch siding spur.  The reason for this is when I get my two new locomotives back from MTH after some repairs I would like to have the option of parking them on the layout.  So that would make three locomotives on a 4x8 layout.  Getting a little cramped.  Still thinking about adding the depth and length to the layout.  I still want to utilize my Lionel M-7 passenger train.  I know expanding the layout only two feet may not help.  It will however add some depth if I decide to pull the trigger and get it elevated two inches and elevate the back portion of the track with a nice gradual increase in pitch.  I am finding myself really enjoy doing new things to the layout and then saying the fruits of my labor when I work the DCS and everything works perfectly.  I still may add a small siding on the side of where the power plant is located.  this is way everything has a home sort to speak.  Would like to figure out having the expansion and incorporating my M7.  After surviving some labor issues at work I may have some funds to make this happen. I have plenty of Real-trax so adding a switch and buying lumber is the only outlay.  We shall see.  Truly enjoying this hobby.

Didn't get a mail alert for this thread for the second time and my last post here is missing!?!?...anyhow.. adding even inches can make a big difference. Whether its scenery, another siding, or added length to sidings you have. Im planning removable table end leaves, mounted like a shelf, so I can swap siding scenes modularly.

About the only thing you can do to add a reverse loop is essentially convert to a figure-8.

I don't think you're crazy. You're analyzing a layout change that can improve your operation.

Also, judging by the job you did on the layout, you're no longer a noob. 

 Matt is Right. You are no longer a Noob! And I am far from a guru More like a parrot that likes to argue options, however obscure...."!Squawk!"-An elevated reverse loop is a one off solution to beat the figure 8.."!Squawk!" They use the same hill to go up & down so you only need one "hill". !Squawk! How tall is the tallest loaded car?-"Squawk"

Ok.....Im going to look for a video I remember of a good example of a PW setup that used one small elevated R-loop(& one larger lower R-loop).(Neat, block wiring set up so you can run two trolley's or shorter trains without ever crashing. The loop doesn't cover too much, and it doesn't appear "loopy". Lower level as its own normal loop is possible too) .....Oh!..Adding two feet anywhere on a small layout is like adding two miles! I cant wait to see what you decide on. (Can you add to the back edge, or add to the side edge? Im reading it both ways.)

You know its funny, the thing that made me notice the lack of response & remember it had been a while was me (flirting with the "enemy") watching a live group video game get played, Grand Theft Auto V(so violent its absurdly funny, like Bugs Bunny to me). Flying a helicopter over an intermodal shipping port, the "target" was stuck waiting on a train at the crossing!..Fire rocket!..Swish!..BOOM! and right then I looked around and thought of your layout.  You can "glitch" into trains cab, then kill the engineer, but no gaining control. Strange,..the cab is somewhat detailed inside for somewhere without a normal access...future use? Trains/stock are all indestructible & most are unstoppable, except transit trains & trolley. No "train" missions. No prototypical stock. No operating intermodal cranes. But some missions use an intermodal high-low and some use containers to be delivered. "Death-matches" and "Survivals" are held at various rail yards and sidings. Best cover is found hiding in open box cars and ducking down in gondolas. In general, rail areas look good considering the game has little to do with trains & wasn't made by train people.    

Magoo,

I just saw this now and caught up with your progress. I went through the same process as you where the small layout for the kids became my obsession! I also have the M7 and decided to build an O48 elevated figure eight to run it. It allows you to separate your passenger service and not clutter up your main level. I built all the trestles with MDF and wood dowels and it was quite easy.

good luck with your expansion,

Jay in Ottawa

Its not the one I was thinking of but I found this on Youtube. http://youtu.be/d_JyaNI4vWc

An online image or video search for "GTA5 trains" or "GTA5 port" would give you a quick peak at the chaos. Check out the attempts to stop one. The trains momentum always wins! Go figure