A few ideas for a small switching layout


Pierluk

Pierluk

Well-Known Member
Hello Everyone!
Due to my complete lack of space and skills (mostly skills), I'm currently considering in my little head building a small switching layout (or shunting - it depends on where you live). I read this fabulous site from A to Z:
I can build a 1' x 5' layout. All your comments, ideas and advices will be greatly appreciated.
 
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My advice, take it slow and keep it simple. Ask questions, read much.
Were I to start again I’d go with a switching layout on a shelf, one or two high end locos, and go heavy on details and scenery.
I’m afraid it’s too late for me, save yourself! 😝
 
Welcome to the Forum, a shelf layout would be ideal for the space you have available, you haven't said which scale you prefer, but can I suggest looking at N scale as this will give you more opportunity for switching/shunting operations as well as decent scale scenery opportunities
 
Thanks for your inputs. I found a lot of infos here:

modelrailroadforums.com

Northern Pacific Rocky Valley Branch Switching Layout Build

Hello Everyone! Model railroading had been put aside the last few months except for some minor Lionel train set work. Last week I received an email inviting me to exhibit a layout at a local train show! This brought back some motivation to build another layout:) Now…since my n scale layout...
modelrailroadforums.com modelrailroadforums.com
 
I went with a switching layout due to space also. Basically a branch line that has another branch line coming off of it. I enjoy the scenery and structure building more than the actual operations.

modelrailroadforums.com

Too frustrated with DC HOn30, tore it down, rebuilding in DCC Standard gauge

My foray into the narrow gauge of my youth is over.😁 I may build a simple loop display layout some day or just sell off the stuff. I did learn a few things....... 1. It was fun building the engines and cars, but the track is too tiny. No way I would get into N scale. 2. Peco narrow gauge...
modelrailroadforums.com modelrailroadforums.com


Keep it simple or you will get frustrated and burned out.
 
After hours and hours of hard work, I finally managed to draw the track plan of my project.

SWL 000_3D.jpg
 
If you can angel one track, say the back one, away from the others it will add much visual appeal.
Maybe along a loading dock or even into a building thru a large door.
This will give the illusion of actually going somewhere and needing to switch cars.
You’ve got a decent lead track there, could add a bridge, road crossing, or an under/over pass if you’d like.
I like it!
 
Pierluk said:
After hours and hours of hard work, I finally managed to draw the track plan of my project.

View attachment 176514
Click to expand...
This is a pic of my small layout at the very start of scenicing and when complete. it started as an Inglenook but I decided to add some trackage. But just angleing your lead track at the left and a bit of space on the tracks at the right of your plan will add visual interest. https://photos.smugmug.com/Trackplans/i-T3KxdnD/0/88fcf092/L/2018060512534337-DSCN1158-L.jpg
 
Pierluk said:
Hello Everyone!
Due to my complete lack of space and skills (mostly skills), I'm currently considering in my little head building a small switching layout (or shunting - it depends on where you live). I read this fabulous site from A to Z:
I can build a 1' x 5' layout. All your comments, ideas and advices will be greatly appreciated.
Click to expand...
I love your Avitar! (I think that is what it is called)

B&O Chessie is one of my favorites!

I forgot to mention that.
 
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