Greg@mnrr
Section Hand
My layout is of a modest size and often though that if I could, I would extend the mainline for longer runs since I like watching trains run. But like Chet, I do a lot of switching. I have had a change of mind since recently attending a Train show. One mod layout had a mainline of approximately of over 100 feet and I stood there for several minutes and watched the trains passing by me.
Well as I watched the trains circle the mod layout even given having a long mainline, sooner or later the mainline seemed shorter just like mine at home. No matter how long the mainline is...the reality is facing the fact that our layout's track plan may only be a circle of track running through the scenery no matter the length and sooner than later the train returns after passing by.
Maybe the length of a mainline is all relative and not the most essential part of a successfully planned layout.
Next time I'll run a short train on the mainline while I perform switching. Often stopping the mainline train for the local and the locals for the mainline. Try to keep it interesting.
What are you thoughts on the importance of long mainlines to keep up interest and for train watching?
Thanks.
Greg
Well as I watched the trains circle the mod layout even given having a long mainline, sooner or later the mainline seemed shorter just like mine at home. No matter how long the mainline is...the reality is facing the fact that our layout's track plan may only be a circle of track running through the scenery no matter the length and sooner than later the train returns after passing by.
Maybe the length of a mainline is all relative and not the most essential part of a successfully planned layout.
Next time I'll run a short train on the mainline while I perform switching. Often stopping the mainline train for the local and the locals for the mainline. Try to keep it interesting.
What are you thoughts on the importance of long mainlines to keep up interest and for train watching?
Thanks.
Greg
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