Layout question....

[JE78]

My layout is small, 4x9, I currently have 2 separate loops running 2 loco's on DCC power, my layout is simple, just 2 oval loops with switch track connecting them. What i''m wanting to do is make this one line, but I would have add an incline so one part of the track can go under. My main question is will it be possible to add an incline on such a small layout? A 2% incline takes 16ft to get to 4 inches, I don't have any where near that amount of space. I'm not sure a 4% would work but it would probably be my only option. Any other suggestions would be great, thanks.

 

[Selector]

On such a small layout, you should not consider any other solution (if you MUST do this) than to split the height requirement, or the height separation, between the two loops. IOW, you will want a folded loop design where the track passes over itself, but you will have to make the lower track descend and then climb maybe one full inch, and the upper track will have to do the rest. If you make one track do all the altitude gain and loss, you will have a grade well in excess of 4.5% which will limit your trains to a locomotive and two or three cars....if you are lucky.

 

[JE78]

Thank you. I was afraid this probably wasn't going to work or be to easy to make it work. I'll have to take a look at it more