Starting a new layout with the old one


GPwrangler

Active Member
I finally made it out of apartment life and into a house. I have a 10' by 10' corner I can use and plan to use the small shelf switching layout in the new one. But, I want it to be removable, like a small module, so it can still be portable. I'm looking to have continuous running with at least a small yard for car storage. I'm trying not to clutter the scenes too much, but it's taking a good bit of restraint to keep from cramming as much track into the available space as possible. So far I'm still in the planning stage, and would appreciate some feedback on some track plans before I commit to cutting up lumber. Using SCARM software, planning to use Atlas code 83 for most of the layout, but i want to try my hand at some handlaid code 70 as well in some places.

There will be a desk/workbench under the layout as well, with the layout set about chest level.

here's a couple plans in mind. comments, complaints, advise, and critiquing welcome.
 

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I'm interested to see what you come up with. Do you have any pics of your current layout? I'm working on something similar, but in a 4' x 5' space and am seeking ideas for a switching layout to start from.
 
Congratulations on the newly acquired space. Looks like you have some solid plans forming. Looking forward to following along.
 
The current layout I'm incorporating is a small shelf switching layout. Here's some older pictures of it before much scenery.
 

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I like both plans. In some ways, I like the plan with the yard on the bottom. How about some sort of branch line running into the center of the loop area, on either plan? Run it along the wall, and have it climb a few inches, then you can have some mountain scenery in the loop area. Keep us posted. Like your idea of recycling your old layout-saves time I've found. Keep us posted.
 
I've never seen a main line going through the center of a time saver before.

I like the second one better, but they both seem a bit over yarded and under industried to me.
 
your passing sidings are very short, engine, caboose, and about 2-3 40' cars is all they'll hold. I think you'd be a lot happier down the road if you made them somewhat longer. Have you considered using curved turnouts? They save on the space some. If you want a yard, how about putting it on a separate 'shelf' that you can put up and take down, when the layout is in/out of use?
 



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