Here is a rough draft of what I am trying to do. Its a part-shelf, part table-top layout. More sidings will be added, and I plan on using a DCC system.
Starting from the yard a train would run level all the way through the loop. Once through the loop, a train could either go back to the yard or switch to the mountain grade (Red).
On the mtn grade the train works its way around the dog bone, then crosses over the low line, and then runs above the low line on it's own shelf. Once the train gets to the tunnel, it starts down grade, and makes up the final drop on the helix which patches back into the yard.
There will be 2 lift bridges which will be in the up position when the route is not in use to permit access to the house/garage.
I am still trying to figure out what % grade I want to do, but 3% sounds good to me. That thread is located at the link below:
http://www.modelrailroadforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3932
Your comments/concerns please.
Starting from the yard a train would run level all the way through the loop. Once through the loop, a train could either go back to the yard or switch to the mountain grade (Red).
On the mtn grade the train works its way around the dog bone, then crosses over the low line, and then runs above the low line on it's own shelf. Once the train gets to the tunnel, it starts down grade, and makes up the final drop on the helix which patches back into the yard.
There will be 2 lift bridges which will be in the up position when the route is not in use to permit access to the house/garage.
I am still trying to figure out what % grade I want to do, but 3% sounds good to me. That thread is located at the link below:
http://www.modelrailroadforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3932
Your comments/concerns please.
I stopped short of finishing that part of the layout. I just drew in the boarders to help show what I have to work with. I'm still trying to nail down the grade, and additional siding.