Hey guys, GREAT FEEDBACK! To give plenty of side clearance I've decided to cover all three tracks (thanks for the idea 3RAIL 2!). This'll give a larger footprint to the mountain so I could have more gradual slopes, add some structures (eg, cabins). AVANTI you sure do have a knack for this! I think I'm many years off from that if I even get the urge/have the time to try that (have no skills a that yet). Maybe the kids can help somewhat.
So my version two is below. Even though this is in a walled of corner the layout stops about 2 feet from the wall so I can get back there and pop up. The back of the mountain will be totally open in case I need to get in there. The portals may be a challenge when I get around to them... one might need to be at an angle which I guess won't look to terrible... they may both have to be double portals to allow for clearance in between the O64 and O31 curves.
Hey Kirk. Just got back home after a long day in the field. I like your new design,,,,.....changing out the curve radii is a good thing and enclosing all (3) tracks will look pretty neat and should solve a lot of problems with clearance.
As far as the portals, look at the ones Scenic Express (forum sponsor) have. They make "xtra-wide" ones in either concrete pattern or stone. They are made from foam so they are easy to cut and modify it necessary. I did that to the concrete one that shows on my upper level.
You can also make your own from either Masonite, MDF or insulation foam. The foam should be either the pink or blue stuff. It is easy to cut to whatever shape you need and then you could carve your own stones in the face using just a pencil or a rounded off stick and then paint.
As far as clearances, I would run that Centipede around the curve, watching where the front or rear overhang is the greatest. This would be your clearance line that you will need to maintain to avoid any operation issues.
Hope that helps. Please posts some pics when you get started. We all like to see pics!
Have a good weekend and Holiday.
Donald