First layout, 4x8


AstroKnight187

AstroKnight187

“Conrail was really cool”
I’ve been looking for a good layout plan for an4x8 (first layout) that was interesting but provided continuous running; I found this one, what do you think? I might change the outside curves to 22” to make it better running, and might make a bypass to get past the cross track near the top so I can run larger rolling stock ( this layout is from TRACK PLANNING: for realistic operation, page 94 )
 

Attachments

  • image.jpg
    image.jpg
    476.8 KB · Views: 154
AstroKnight187 said:
Thanks, I like it too. Any suggestions on if I should add or take away anything?
Click to expand...
Nope. I'd build it as is.
Gives you plenty of action and options for a small layout.
Yellow = switching.
Orange = Locomotive servicing, possible ash pit for steamers.
Lime green = R.I.P. Track.
Purple = engine storage/ short term.
Magenta (Lower left corner) = small industry.
Red = Team track.
image.jpg
 
AstroKnight187 said:
I’ve been looking for a good layout plan for an4x8 (first layout) that was interesting but provided continuous running; I found this one, what do you think? I might change the outside curves to 22” to make it better running, and might make a bypass to get past the cross track near the top so I can run larger rolling stock ( this layout is from TRACK PLANNING: for realistic operation, page 94 )
Click to expand...
I like the layout as presented. It is already pretty "busy". However, I think if you are going to use 22" curves you will have to expand it to be at least 4 1/2 feet wide and 9 feet long. This is because the curves have to start sooner, so there is less room to get the tracks started into the center.
 
Iron Horseman said:
I like the layout as presented. It is already pretty "busy". However, I think if you are going to use 22" curves you will have to expand it to be at least 4 1/2 feet wide and 9 feet long. This is because the curves have to start sooner, so there is less room to get the tracks started into the center.
Click to expand...
Ok. I'll see what I can do with givens and druthers before I expand the benchwork
 
That plan looks ok.

With sharper curves, you'll pretty much need to limit yourself to 4-axle engines and 40' (maybe 50') cars.
I'm thinking GP7/9, GP20, GP30, GP40, maybe an SD7/9 (these have short wheelbases), Alco RS1, RS2, RS3, RS11, RS32.

Something that I would change...
The turntable/enginehouse is taking up too much room.
That area would be better with a couple of industrial tracks, maybe even 3.

The idea is to give "the cars from the yard" somewhere to GO.

While your switcher is working in the yard, you can run right around him with a through train or local freight.
 
J.Albert said:
That plan looks ok.

With sharper curves, you'll pretty much need to limit yourself to 4-axle engines and 40' (maybe 50') cars.
I'm thinking GP7/9, GP20, GP30, GP40, maybe an SD7/9 (these have short wheelbases), Alco RS1, RS2, RS3, RS11, RS32.

Something that I would change...
The turntable/enginehouse is taking up too much room.
That area would be better with a couple of industrial tracks, maybe even 3.

The idea is to give "the cars from the yard" somewhere to GO.

While your switcher is working in the yard, you can run right around him with a through train or local freight.
Click to expand...
Agreed
 
AstroKnight187 said:
I’ve been looking for a good layout plan for an4x8 (first layout) that was interesting but provided continuous running; I found this one, what do you think? I might change the outside curves to 22” to make it better running, and might make a bypass to get past the cross track near the top so I can run larger rolling stock ( this layout is from TRACK PLANNING: for realistic operation, page 94 )
Click to expand...
I think it's a great design! If you're looking for an example of what you van do with a small layout, this is what I ran for many years before I was finally able to start building my current layout. Surprisingly, while closer to the edge than I would have liked, I did manage to have 22" radious curves. If I remember right, I believe the table it was on is about 6'x4' with the leaf in it.
CM MT & SL layout build (123).jpg
CM MT & SL layout build (124B).jpg
 
You must log in or register to reply here.



Back
Top