And, another question for the brain trust...
Finally figured out that one of my reasons for not tackling my RR layout of late has been the redesign of the track plan I need to do.
The benchwork is a folded dogbone in N-scale.
I had a fairly high difference in elevations, which worked when I had another 12 feet of benchwork to gradually bring it down. Now, I'm faced with tearing out the four-inch risers along the back wall and re-painting part of the blue sky backdrop.
OR
Could I have two mainline runs? One elevated, that folds back on itself, and has a 2% grade? If so, do I have the room to get another loop on the lower elevation? (remember, one deck, not two like
Willie's double-decker).
Hmmmm... There's a 5" height difference between what I originally laid out for the upper elevation vs the main deck.
Here's the OLD layout:
View attachment 157863
And here's the new, with the leg on the far right removed.
View attachment 157864
I'd have to do some serious rework here on the "yellow" end where I've already got the track down. Add an outer loop for the elevated line, with a 2% drop and curve it back into the main area. My thought is to use its elevation as scenic dividers (hills) between the lower level's line. Several short tunnels for the lower level.
My initial thought is to have the elevated loop be the through line, with broad curves where I can run a passenger consist. And have the lower elevation with sharper turns for freight lines and some switching.
Anyone got input on lessons learned? What to avoid?